ILLYRIAN - South Coast

The Illyrian isn’t about big schools or blazing colour. It’s a proper dive into history, a moody, atmospheric wreck off Ireland’s south coast. We love the feeling of descent here, dropping onto something that once moved under its own steam, now completely reclaimed by the sea. This 118-meter steamship ran ashore in fog back in 1884, and what’s left spreads out over a flat seabed at 15 metres. You’re exploring ribs and plating, sections of deck, and the occasional boiler poking up, all draped in a thick fur of anemones and dead man's fingers. Our favourite part is nosing around the deeper sections, where conger eels often lurk in crevices, and lobsters eye you from under ledges. It's a great spot for photographers who appreciate texture and composition over bright subjects. Visibility can be a bit hit or miss, typical for the region, but even on a greener day, the wreck’s presence is undeniable. Best dived on a neap tide for minimal current, allowing you to really soak in the wreck's scale and the quiet drama of its resting place.

Location
South Coast, Ireland, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
51.436610, -9.478833
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
15m

Marine Protected Area: Roaringwater Bay and Islands SAC

Best Time to Dive in South Coast

The warmest water temperatures in South Coast occur in January, averaging 8.8°C. The coolest conditions are in December at 8.8°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 8.8°C (air: 7.0°C)
  • February: 8.8°C (air: 8.3°C)
  • March: 8.8°C (air: 8.1°C)
  • April: 8.8°C (air: 9.3°C)
  • May: 8.8°C (air: 11.8°C)
  • June: 8.8°C (air: 14.2°C)
  • July: 8.8°C (air: 15.6°C)
  • August: 8.8°C (air: 15.8°C)
  • September: 8.8°C (air: 14.6°C)
  • October: 8.8°C (air: 12.4°C)
  • November: 8.8°C (air: 9.9°C)
  • December: 8.8°C (air: 8.1°C)

Nearby Dive Sites in South Coast

Nearest Dive Centres to ILLYRIAN

Marine Life in South Coast

Home to 199 recorded species including 97 reef fish, 24 sharks & rays, 14 whales & dolphins, 14 other, 10 crabs & lobsters, 10 seagrass & algae.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for ILLYRIAN

Based on average water temperature of 8.8°C.

  • Drysuit - water at 9°C demands a drysuit with thermal undergarments
  • Hood & Gloves (7mm+) - critical to prevent heat loss
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the typical diving depths encountered at Illyrian archaeological sites?
When diving the Illyrian wreck, divers can expect to encounter depths of 15 meters. This specific steamship, sunk in 1884, offers a fascinating exploration at a consistent depth. For more details on this particular site, visit its dedicated page.
What kind of marine life and historical artifacts can divers expect to see when exploring Illyrian underwater sites?
When exploring the Illyrian site, divers will primarily encounter the historical artifacts of the wreck itself. This large steamship, measuring 118.9m x 11.4m, provides an extensive structure to explore. The site is a non-dangerous wreck, offering a unique glimpse into maritime history from its sinking in 1884.
How challenging are the diving conditions, such as currents and visibility, along the Illyrian coast for divers?
Diving conditions at the Illyrian wreck are classified as intermediate difficulty. While specific details regarding currents and visibility for this site are not provided in the current data, divers should be prepared for conditions typical of an intermediate-level dive. Always check local conditions before your dive.
When is the best time of year to dive the Illyrian coast for optimal conditions and archaeological exploration?
Information regarding the best time of year to dive the Illyrian coast for optimal conditions and archaeological exploration is not available in the provided data. We recommend consulting local dive operators or our When to Dive section for general guidance on diving in Ireland.
What specific diving certifications or experience levels are required or recommended for diving at Illyrian archaeological sites?
For diving at the Illyrian wreck, an intermediate level of diving experience is recommended. This classification suggests that divers should possess a good understanding of buoyancy control and general dive skills. Always ensure your certification matches the dive's demands.
What are the prevailing currents and visibility conditions typically experienced when diving the Illyrian coast?
The provided data for the Illyrian site does not include specific information on prevailing currents or typical visibility conditions. Divers planning to explore the South Coast of Ireland should consult local dive centers for up-to-date reports on these factors.