M.V. Bardini Reefer - South Coast

The M.V. Bardini Reefer on Ireland's South Coast, now that's a dive. We love this wreck for its character, even if the visibility can be a bit moody, which is just part of the Irish charm. Dropping onto her bow, you’re immediately struck by the sheer scale, she’s a big girl, and the cold water has preserved her structure remarkably well. The decks are often swarming with dab and the occasional Cuckoo Skate, tucked into the shadows. We’ve had some cracking encounters with common lobsters here, too, peeking out from behind crumpled plating. Keep an eye out for the smaller stuff though; Spotted Dragonets are masters of camouflage, but if you’re patient, you’ll spot them flitting across the silty bottom. Our favourite time to dive the Reefer is on a neap tide, when the currents are gentler and you can really take your time exploring her hold. It’s a proper wreck dive, best suited for those comfortable with deeper depths and who appreciate the beauty of a ship slowly returning to the sea. You’ll leave feeling like you’ve been on an adventure, and probably a bit cold, but always with a smile.

Location
South Coast, Ireland, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
51.646168, -9.855500
Type
reef

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 M.V. Bardini Reefer

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 M.V. Bardini Reefer

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