ZORROZAURE - South Coast

Zorrozaure. A name that just rolls off the tongue, doesn't it? This isn't your typical Irish wreck dive, and we love it for that. She's a steel-hulled fishing vessel, gone down in 2000, sitting upright at a mere seven metres. That shallow depth means incredible light penetration on a good day, painting the wreck in shifting shades of green and blue. We’ve spent hours poking around her. You can fin right over the wheelhouse, seeing the ghostly outlines of the controls. Down on the deck, the fishing gear is still largely in place, nets draped like discarded cobwebs, and the huge winches loom. It’s a site that feels immediate, almost like the crew just stepped off. Look for conger eels tucked into the darker corners, their heads peering out, and we’ve often found dogfish resting on the sand nearby, almost camouflaged. The sheer volume of fish sheltering within her structure is impressive, particularly the pollack and coalfish darting through the skeletal remains. Because she’s so shallow, it’s a site we’d recommend for extended bottom times, perfect for photographers or those just wanting to soak in the atmosphere. Go at high slack for the calmest conditions, though the visibility can vary wildly here depending on the tides and recent weather.

Location
South Coast, Ireland, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
51.655180, -9.748683
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
7m

Marine Protected Area: Farranamanagh Lough 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 ZORROZAURE

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 ZORROZAURE

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 maximum depth for diving at ZORROZAURE (Cueva de Zorro)?
The maximum depth for diving at ZORROZAURE is 7 meters. This relatively shallow wreck dive makes it accessible for divers comfortable with intermediate conditions.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at ZORROZAURE (Fox Cave)?
Divers at ZORROZAURE will primarily explore the remains of a 36m x 6.5m fishing vessel, sunk in 2000. While specific marine life details are not provided in our current data, wrecks often become artificial reefs attracting various species. For general marine life information, visit our wildlife database.
How challenging is the ZORROZAURE (Cueva de Zorro) dive site, and is it suitable for all experience levels?
The ZORROZAURE dive site is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive and is also noted as a "Dangerous wreck." Due to its classification, it is not suitable for all experience levels, particularly novice divers. Divers should possess the necessary skills and experience for intermediate wreck diving.
What are the ideal conditions or best time of year to dive ZORROZAURE (Fox Cave)?
Our current data does not specify the ideal conditions or best time of year to dive ZORROZAURE. We recommend checking local dive operator reports for up-to-date information on conditions. For general guidance on dive seasons, explore our When to Dive section.
What scuba diving certifications are recommended or required to dive at ZORROZAURE (Cueva de Zorro)?
Given the ZORROZAURE dive site's intermediate difficulty and "Dangerous wreck" classification, an Advanced Open Water certification or a Wreck Diver specialty would be highly recommended. While specific certification requirements are not listed, divers should ensure they are adequately trained and experienced for such conditions.
What are the typical currents and visibility like at the ZORROZAURE (Fox Cave) dive site?
Information regarding typical currents and visibility at the ZORROZAURE dive site is not available in our provided data. We advise consulting with local dive centers or guides for the most current conditions before planning your dive.