SPES NOVA - South Coast

The *Spes Nova* is a solid dive on Ireland's South Coast, a fishing vessel that went down in 1983 after a rescue attempt gone wrong near the Stags. Sitting upright at 20 metres, the 24.5-metre wreck offers a decent penetration for those comfortable with overhead environments; we've found the wheelhouse and engine room accessible on good days. Around the exterior, you'll often spot conger eels tucked into various nooks, and crabs are always scuttling across the decks. It's a dive best suited for experienced wreck divers looking for a bit of history and some consistent invertebrate life.

Location
South Coast, Ireland, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
51.467167, -9.221334
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
20m

Marine Protected Area: Lough Hyne Nature Reserve and Environs 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 SPES NOVA

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 SPES NOVA

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 at the SPES NOVA dive site?
The SPES NOVA dive site offers a typical diving depth of 20 meters. This makes it an accessible wreck dive for many certified divers. Exploring this site allows you to experience the remains of a fishing vessel that sank in 1983.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can be seen at SPES NOVA?
The primary underwater feature at SPES NOVA is the wreck of a 24.5-meter-long fishing vessel, which sank on November 7, 1983. This non-dangerous wreck provides an interesting structure to explore. While specific marine life is not detailed in the provided data, wrecks typically attract a variety of local species over time, which you can learn more about in our Wildlife Database.
How challenging is diving at SPES NOVA for different certification levels?
Diving at the SPES NOVA site is classified as having an intermediate difficulty. This suggests it's suitable for divers who have some experience beyond entry-level certifications. Divers should be comfortable with wreck diving techniques and conditions at a depth of 20 meters.
What is the best time of year to dive at SPES NOVA for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive at SPES NOVA for optimal conditions. For general guidance on seasonal diving in Ireland, you might consult our When to Dive section. Local dive operators can also provide up-to-date information.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive at SPES NOVA?
Given that the SPES NOVA dive site is classified as having an intermediate difficulty, divers would typically need at least an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent. This ensures they have the necessary skills and experience for wreck diving at a depth of 20 meters. Always check with local dive operators for specific requirements before planning your dive.
What are the typical currents and visibility conditions at the SPES NOVA dive site?
The provided data does not include specific details regarding typical currents or visibility conditions at the SPES NOVA dive site. For up-to-date information on local conditions, it is always best to consult with local dive centers in the South Coast of Ireland. They can offer the most current insights for your dive planning.