IRISH PLANE - South Coast

Forget whatever the database says about this one. The "Irish Plane" is actually the *Irish Plain*, a huge steamship that ran aground in Ballycroneen Bay back in 1916. We love a good historical mix-up, especially when it leads to a dive like this. It sits in a ridiculously shallow 3m of water, practically begging for a snorkel or a leisurely, long-bottom-time dive. What you get here is a proper wreck, all 114 meters of her, broken up but still very much a ship. You'll kick over huge plates of rusted steel, see beams draped with kelp, and fin through shadows cast by the collapsed superstructure. We've spent ages just tracing the outline of the deck, imagining the scale of it before it broke apart. It's a fantastic spot for photography, especially on a sunny day when the light penetrates the water and illuminates the vibrant greens and browns of the sea growth. Look for the blennies darting between the crevices and the crabs scuttling amongst the metal. It’s an easy, fascinating dive, perfect for anyone who loves exploring history without the pressure of depth or strong currents.

Location
South Coast, Ireland, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
51.797165, -8.140667
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
3m

Marine Protected Area: Ballycotton Bay SPA

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 IRISH PLANE

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 IRISH PLANE

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 is the typical depth range for diving the 'Irish Plane' shipwreck?
The 'Irish Plane' shipwreck is found at a typical depth of 3 meters. This shallow depth makes the Irish Plane accessible for many divers, offering a unique opportunity to explore a historical wreck close to the surface.
What kind of marine life and wreck remnants can divers expect to see at the 'Irish Plane' dive site?
Divers exploring the Irish Plane can expect to encounter the remnants of a substantial steam ship vessel, measuring 114.9m x 15.8m. The site is classified as a wreck showing portions of its hull or superstructure, offering interesting features to explore. While specific marine life is not detailed in the provided data, wrecks typically attract various local marine life over time.
How challenging is the 'Irish Plane' dive site, and is it suitable for divers of all experience levels?
The Irish Plane dive site is classified as having an intermediate difficulty level. This suggests it is suitable for certified divers with some experience, but perhaps not ideal for absolute beginners. Divers should possess the necessary skills and comfort level for wreck diving at this depth.
When is the best time of year to dive the 'Irish Plane' shipwreck for optimal weather and water conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year for optimal weather and water conditions at the Irish Plane shipwreck. For general guidance on diving seasons in Ireland, it's recommended to consult local dive operators or the DivePlnr When to Dive section for more information.
What diving certifications are required or recommended to dive the 'Irish Plane' shipwreck?
Given the intermediate difficulty of the Irish Plane dive site, a basic open water certification is likely required. An advanced certification or specialized wreck diving training is highly recommended to safely navigate and appreciate the site. Divers should ensure they are comfortable with the conditions and depth before attempting this dive.
What are the usual current and visibility conditions at the 'Irish Plane' dive site?
The provided data does not include specific information regarding the usual current and visibility conditions at the Irish Plane dive site. Divers planning a trip should consult local dive centers in Ireland's South Coast for the most up-to-date conditions and forecasts before their dive.