H.M.S. Martin - West Coast

The H.M.S. Martin isn’t just a pile of metal on the seabed, it’s a time capsule. We think it’s one of Ireland’s most compelling wrecks, a British destroyer sunk in 1942, now resting in deeper, often chillier waters off the west coast. Diving it feels like entering a different world, the light muted, the silence profound. What we really love about the Martin is how intact sections remain, allowing for genuine exploration. You can still make out the gun turrets, parts of the bridge structure, and the outline of her stern. It’s an immersive experience; we've spent entire dives just tracing her decks, imagining her final moments. The wreck is heavily colonised, of course. Pink sea fans bloom from the steel, and we've regularly seen large schools of Pollock and cod weaving through the superstructure. Keep an eye out for the elusive European common squid hovering near shadowy overhangs. This site suits experienced divers comfortable with deeper, often low-visibility conditions and stronger currents. It’s not for the faint of heart, but the rewards are substantial. Our top tip: aim for slack tide, and don't rush it. Take your time to absorb the history and the vibrant life that now calls this incredible wreck home.

Location: West Coast, Ireland, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates: 52.685000, -9.669167
Type: wreck

Marine Protected Area: Kilkee Reefs SAC

Best Time to Dive in West Coast

The warmest water temperatures in West Coast occur in January, averaging 8.9°C. The coolest conditions are in December at 8.9°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

January: 8.9°C (air: 7.2°C)
February: 8.9°C (air: 8.0°C)
March: 8.9°C (air: 8.0°C)
April: 8.9°C (air: 9.8°C)
May: 8.9°C (air: 12.0°C)
June: 8.9°C (air: 14.2°C)
July: 8.9°C (air: 15.2°C)
August: 8.9°C (air: 15.9°C)
September: 8.9°C (air: 14.8°C)
October: 8.9°C (air: 12.4°C)
November: 8.9°C (air: 10.3°C)
December: 8.9°C (air: 8.1°C)

Nearest Dive Centres to H.M.S. Martin

Dive Aran - SSI
Kilkee Dive Centre - SSI

Marine Life in West Coast

Home to 183 recorded species including 86 reef fish, 20 sharks & rays, 15 whales & dolphins, 12 other, 10 seagrass & algae, 8 crabs & lobsters.

Notable Species

dogfish (Scyliorhinus canicula) - Sharks & Rays
Haddock (Melanogrammus aeglefinus) - Reef Fish
hake (Merluccius merluccius) - Reef Fish
grey gurnard (Eutrigla gurnardus) - Reef Fish
whiting (Merlangius merlangus) - Reef Fish
Split (Scomber scombrus) - Reef Fish
megrim (Lepidorhombus whiffiagonis) - Reef Fish
Pollock (Trachurus trachurus) - Reef Fish
Common dragonet (Callionymus lyra) - Reef Fish
poor cod (Trisopterus minutus) - Reef Fish
blue whiting (Micromesistius poutassou) - Reef Fish
Boarfish (Capros aper) - Reef Fish
Protestant (Clupea harengus) - Reef Fish
lesser argentine (Argentina sphyraena) - Reef Fish
Soldier (Chelidonichthys cuculus) - Reef Fish
Angler (Lophius piscatorius) - Reef Fish
dab (Limanda limanda) - Reef Fish
Cape Shark (Squalus acanthias) - Sharks & Rays
sprat (Sprattus sprattus) - Reef Fish
Bastard Sole (Microchirus variegatus) - Reef Fish

Recommended Packing List for H.M.S. Martin

Based on average water temperature of 8.9°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