SAMSON - South Coast

The Samson wreck is a decent exploration for divers on Ireland's South Coast. This barge, which sank in a storm back in '87, now sits upright on the seabed, its superstructure offering a good chance for penetration if you're comfortable with overhead environments. We've often found conger eels tucked into the dark corners and plenty of small wrasse darting around the steel plates. It's a site that suits those who enjoy picking apart a wreck, rather than those seeking big pelagics or colourful reefs. Just keep an eye on the weather; strong winds can make the entry and surface conditions a bit challenging.

Location
South Coast, Ireland, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
51.938667, -7.717500
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
0m

Marine Protected Area: Ardmore Head 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 SAMSON

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 SAMSON

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

How deep are the Samson Wrecks dive sites?
The Samson wreck dive site is listed with a depth of 0m, indicating that portions of the wreck may be visible at or near the surface. This unique characteristic makes it accessible for various diving experiences. You can find more information about this site and other dives in Ireland's South Coast.
What kind of marine life and underwater structures can I expect to see when diving the Samson Wrecks?
When diving the Samson wreck, you can expect to explore the remains of a barge vessel, measuring 55.5m x 17.4m. This impressive underwater structure, which broke tow and grounded in 1987, offers a fascinating glimpse into maritime history. While specific marine life details are not provided for this site, wrecks typically attract a variety of local species over time.
How challenging is diving at the Samson Wrecks, and what level of experience is recommended?
Diving at the Samson wreck is classified as intermediate difficulty. This means it is suitable for divers who have completed basic certification and possess some experience with various dive conditions. Divers should be comfortable with wreck diving techniques and potentially variable conditions often associated with coastal sites.
When is the best time of year to dive the Samson Wrecks for optimal conditions and marine encounters?
Specific data regarding the best time of year for optimal conditions and marine encounters at the Samson wreck is not provided in our current database. However, general guidance for diving in Ireland often suggests summer months for calmer seas and better visibility. For broader insights into dive seasonality, please consult our When to Dive section.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive the Samson Wrecks?
While specific certification requirements for the Samson wreck are not explicitly stated, its intermediate difficulty classification suggests that a basic open water certification is a minimum. It is highly recommended that divers also possess experience relevant to wreck diving and local conditions. Always check with a local dive operator for precise requirements and recommendations.
What are the typical current and visibility conditions at the Samson Wrecks dive site?
Our current data context for the Samson wreck does not include specific details on typical current and visibility conditions. Given its location off the South Coast of Ireland, conditions can vary, and it's always best to consult local dive centers for up-to-the-minute reports before planning your dive.