LUDGATE - South Coast

Ludgate. Ah, Ludgate. This isn’t a shallow splash-about; it’s a deep, meaningful dive into history off the South Coast. We love this wreck not just for its size, but for the sheer presence it still holds, even after being down since 1917. Dropping down to 38 metres, you’re often met with that classic Irish green visibility, which only adds to the atmosphere. The Ludgate herself is a substantial steamship, over 100 metres long, and while she's broken, there's still plenty to explore. Her two massive boilers are a focal point, colossal metal cylinders encrusted with soft corals and anemones. You’ll find conger eels peering out from gaps, their heads like ancient gargoyles, and we often spot spider crabs clambering over the plates. It’s a challenging dive, given the depth and sometimes frisky currents, so this one's definitely for experienced wreck enthusiasts. Our favourite time to dive it is on a calm, slack tide, which gives you the best chance to really soak it all in.

Location
South Coast, Ireland, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
51.500330, -8.984000
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
38m

Marine Protected Area: Clonakilty 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 LUDGATE

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 LUDGATE

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