MONTE IZASKUN - South Coast

The Monte Izaskun isn't your typical deep, dark Irish wreck. No, this trawler sits up in the shallows, only 8 metres down, making it perfect for divers who prefer longer bottom times without the chill of the deeper stuff. We love how accessible it is; even with basic Open Water certs, you can spend a good hour nosing around her. She ran aground on Foilnaboe Rock back in '74, and while her sister ship tried to pull her off, the sea had other plans. Now, the wreck lies broken, a testament to that struggle. What you'll find here is a twisted metal garden. Sunlight filters right through, illuminating the broken hull, which is now thick with kelp and anemones. We’ve seen conger eels poking their heads out from under plating, and the schools of pollack that dart around the mast are always a treat. It’s a site for explorers, for those who enjoy picking apart a story written in rust and marine growth. The Monte Izaskun suits photographers looking for striking light and texture, or anyone who just wants a relaxed dive with a bit of history to it.

Location
South Coast, Ireland, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
51.634777, -9.912167
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
8m

Marine Protected Area: Kenmare River

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 MONTE IZASKUN

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 MONTE IZASKUN

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 diving depth range at Monte Izaskun?
The typical diving depth at the Monte Izaskun dive site is 8 meters. This shallow depth makes it quite accessible for divers exploring this fascinating wreck.
What kind of marine life and underwater topography can divers expect to encounter at Monte Izaskun?
Divers at Monte Izaskun can expect to encounter the remains of a trawler vessel, measuring 34.1m x 6.1m. While specific marine life is not detailed in our current data, wrecks like this often become artificial reefs, attracting various species over time. For more general information on marine life, please visit our wildlife database.
How would you rate the difficulty level for diving at Monte Izaskun, and is it suitable for all experience levels?
The difficulty level for diving at Monte Izaskun is rated as intermediate. Due to its classification as a "Dangerous wreck," it is not suitable for all experience levels and is best approached by divers with adequate training and experience.
What is considered the best time of year to dive Monte Izaskun for optimal visibility and conditions?
Our current data for Monte Izaskun does not specify the best time of year for optimal visibility and conditions. We recommend consulting local dive operators or our general When to Dive guide for more seasonal insights.
Are there any specific diving certifications required or highly recommended to dive at Monte Izaskun?
While no specific certifications are explicitly stated for Monte Izaskun, its "intermediate" difficulty and "Dangerous wreck" classification strongly suggest that advanced wreck diving training or substantial experience with similar conditions would be highly recommended. This ensures divers are well-prepared for the unique environment of this site.
What are the prevailing currents and general water conditions (e.g., temperature, visibility) at Monte Izaskun?
Our current data for Monte Izaskun does not include specific details on prevailing currents, water temperature, or typical visibility. Divers should always check current conditions with local dive centers before planning their dive.