SHADINSAY - South Coast

Shadinsay, an old Icelandic trawler that sank in 1967, rests in just two meters of water on Ireland's South Coast. It’s a shallow dive, more of a snorkel really, but don't let the depth fool you. The wreck itself is quite broken up, but you can still make out the general shape of the hull and some structural elements. We've seen conger eels poking out from beneath plates, and wrasse darting between the rusty frames. For wreck enthusiasts interested in maritime history, or those just looking for an easy, accessible site, it's a pleasant way to spend an hour.

Location
South Coast, Ireland, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
52.125330, -6.917500
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
2m

Marine Protected Area: Hook 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 SHADINSAY

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 SHADINSAY

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 SHADINSAY?
The SHADINSAY dive site is exceptionally shallow, with a typical diving depth of just 2 meters. This makes it a very accessible wreck dive, perfect for divers looking for a shallow exploration of the SHADINSAY wreck.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at SHADINSAY?
Divers at SHADINSAY can expect to explore the remains of a converted Icelandic trawler, which sank on November 7, 1967. This wreck, classified as showing a portion of its hull or superstructure, offers an interesting historical underwater feature. Specific details about marine life are not provided in the current data for this site, but you can learn more about general marine species in our wildlife database.
How difficult is diving at SHADINSAY, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
Diving at SHADINSAY is classified as intermediate difficulty. While not suitable for absolute beginners, divers with some experience and appropriate training should find it manageable. It's recommended that divers have a good grasp of buoyancy control and basic wreck diving skills.
What is the best time of year to dive at SHADINSAY for optimal conditions and marine encounters?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive at SHADINSAY for optimal conditions or marine encounters. For general guidance on diving in Ireland, it's advisable to consult broader resources on when to dive for the region.
Are there any specific diving certifications required or recommended to dive at SHADINSAY?
While specific certification requirements are not detailed in the provided data for SHADINSAY, given its intermediate difficulty and status as a wreck dive, it is highly recommended that divers possess at least an Advanced Open Water certification. Additionally, a wreck diver specialty certification would be beneficial for safely exploring the site.
What are the typical currents and water conditions like at the SHADINSAY dive site?
The provided data for the SHADINSAY dive site does not include specific details regarding typical currents or water conditions. Divers planning a trip to Ireland's South Coast should consult local dive operators for up-to-date information on site conditions before their dive.