UC-42
Protected Area
Cork Harbour SPA
Why dive here
With 185+ marine species recorded in the area - including blue sharks, dolphins, dwarf minke whales, humpback whales and ocean sunfish (mola mola) - UC-42 offers some of South Coast's richest wreck diving. Water ranges 9-15°C, warmest July, August, September.
The UC-42, a German WWI U-boat, lies on its side off Ireland's south coast, a silent testament to a century past. While the visibility here can be… well, it’s Ireland, so be prepared for a real Irish welcome, often a bit murky. But on a good day, when the light penetrates, you can discern the outline of the conning tower and the torpedo tubes. Lobsters and crabs have claimed the hull, scuttling into crevices, and we’ve seen some decent-sized pollack lurking in the gloom. This isn't a dive for the faint of heart or those new to wreck penetration, but for experienced divers keen on history and the resident macro life, it’s a rewarding exploration.
Typical UC-42 Dive Profile
Illustrative profile based on site depth and type. Actual dive profiles vary - always follow your dive computer and training.
Safety Notes
Wreck site - avoid penetration without wreck diving certification. Watch for sharp metal and entanglement hazards.
Cold water this month (avg 14°C). Drysuit or thick wetsuit (7mm+) recommended.
Nearest Dive Centres to UC-42
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Conditions
Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for UC-42
UC-42 Ocean Conditions
Monthly averages for UC-42, sourced from Open-Meteo marine data - nearest station: Open-Meteo marine grid (51.71, -8.38) (9km away)
October Averages
Sea Temperature
14°C
57°F · Range: 12.3–14.8°C
Air Temperature
12°C
54°F
Wind Speed
7.84 m/s
15.2 knots
Atmospheric Pressure
1008.6 hPa
Based on 4 years of monitoring data · Data sources: Open-Meteo marine data
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