WESTWICK - South Coast

The Westwick isn't your typical Irish wreck dive, and that's precisely why we love it. Sunk by a mine in 1917, this 123-meter steamship drifted ashore, breaking up into a scattered, shallow playground. At a maximum depth of 6 meters, it’s less about penetration and more about exploring the jumble of plates, beams, and machinery spread across the seabed. We've spent hours here, meticulously combing through the remains. You'll find sections of the hull, perhaps a boiler, and countless bits of mangled metal. The real magic, though, is how the ocean has repurposed it all. Lobsters poke their antennae from beneath twisted steel, and we've often seen schools of pollack darting through the clearer patches. Sunlight filters down, illuminating the anemones that coat every available surface – a vibrant contrast to the rust. It’s a site that rewards slow, deliberate exploration. Our favourite approach is to pick a section and really examine it, imagining the ship as it once was. You'll want to time your dive for slack water to get the best visibility; a falling tide can kick up a bit of sediment, making things murkier. It’s perfect for newer divers looking for a wreck experience without the depth, or anyone who just enjoys a relaxed, investigative dive among history.

Location
South Coast, Ireland, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
51.768116, -8.295116
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
6m

Marine Protected Area: Cork Harbour SPA

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 WESTWICK

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 WESTWICK

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 maximum depth for recreational diving at the WESTWICK dive site?
The WESTWICK dive site has a typical maximum depth of 6 meters. This shallow depth makes it accessible for many divers exploring the historical wreck. It's an excellent site for those looking for a shallower wreck experience.
What unique marine life and underwater topography can divers expect to encounter at WESTWICK?
The WESTWICK dive site is primarily known for its historical underwater topography, consisting of the distributed remains of a 123.4m x 15.9m steam ship vessel that sank in 1917. While specific marine life is not detailed in our records for this site, wreck dives often attract various species seeking shelter and food. Divers can explore the fascinating wreckage itself, which is classified as distributed remains.
How difficult is the WESTWICK dive site, and is it suitable for beginner or advanced divers?
The WESTWICK dive site is classified as having an intermediate difficulty level. This makes it suitable for divers who have some experience beyond their initial certification. It offers an engaging exploration of this historical wreck for those comfortable with intermediate conditions.
What is the best time of year to dive at WESTWICK for optimal visibility and calm conditions?
Our current data for the WESTWICK dive site does not specify the best time of year for optimal visibility or calm conditions. General guidance for diving in Ireland suggests checking local weather patterns and sea conditions before planning your dive. For more general information on dive planning, you can visit our When to Dive section.
Are there any specific scuba diving certifications required or highly recommended to dive at WESTWICK?
Given the intermediate difficulty rating for the WESTWICK dive site, it is highly recommended that divers possess at least an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent experience. While no specific certification is explicitly required beyond basic open water, additional training in wreck diving or navigation would be beneficial for exploring the distributed remains of this steam ship.
What are the prevailing currents and average visibility conditions at the WESTWICK dive site?
Our available data for the WESTWICK dive site does not include specific details on prevailing currents or average visibility conditions. As with any dive in Ireland's South Coast, it is always advisable to consult local dive operators for the most up-to-date information on daily conditions before planning your dive. This ensures a safe and enjoyable experience at the site.