HMS MARTIN (PROBABLY) - West Coast

The HMS Martin (Probably) site, despite the hesitant name, is a real favourite of ours on Ireland's wild west coast. We love the backstory: an 1809 Bermudan-built brig-sloop, cruising for smugglers, then smashed ashore in a Force 12 gale in 1817. You’re diving history, raw and exposed. At a mere 5m, it’s a perfect shallow exploration. What you’ll find isn’t a pristine intact ship, but rather scattered timbers, heavy iron carronades, and the ghost of a hull outline, all wonderfully colonised by kelp and anenomes. You’ll weave through the skeletal remains of a wooden warship. Look closely and you might spot a shy crab tucked into a cannon barrel or the darting shadow of a pollock. We’d suggest going at high slack water for the best visibility, otherwise, the surge can really kick up the sand. It’s a site for those who appreciate the narrative behind the dive, rather than just marine abundance, though the resident critters add plenty of charm. It’s a tangible link to a rougher, older Ireland.

Location
West Coast, Ireland, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
52.775284, -9.496016
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
5m

Marine Protected Area: Carrowmore Dunes 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)

Nearby Dive Sites in West Coast

Nearest Dive Centres to HMS MARTIN (PROBABLY)

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 HMS MARTIN (PROBABLY)

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical depth range for diving the HMS Proselyte wreck?
The HMS MARTIN (PROBABLY) wreck, which you're asking about, is found at a typical depth of 5 meters. This shallow depth makes it accessible for many divers.
What marine life and historical artifacts can divers expect to see at the HMS Proselyte dive site?
While specific marine life is not detailed in our records for the HMS MARTIN (PROBABLY), divers can explore the historical remains of this wooden sailing vessel sunk in 1817. You might discover artifacts related to its past, such as its 16 x 24pdr carronades and 2 x 9pdr guns. For more on marine life, you can consult our wildlife database.
How difficult is the HMS Proselyte wreck dive, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
The HMS MARTIN (PROBABLY) wreck dive is classified as intermediate difficulty. While it is considered a non-dangerous wreck, its intermediate rating suggests it may not be ideal for absolute beginner divers without appropriate supervision or experience.
What is the best time of year to dive the HMS Proselyte for optimal conditions and visibility?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year for optimal conditions and visibility at the HMS MARTIN (PROBABLY) dive site. For general guidance on diving in Ireland, you might consult our When to Dive section.
Are there any specific diving certifications required to explore the HMS Proselyte wreck?
While specific certification requirements are not detailed for the HMS MARTIN (PROBABLY), given its intermediate difficulty rating, divers should possess at least an advanced open water certification or equivalent experience. Always check with local dive operators in Ireland for their specific requirements.
What are the usual current and water conditions like at the HMS Proselyte dive site?
The provided data does not include specific information on the usual current or water conditions at the HMS MARTIN (PROBABLY) dive site. Divers planning to visit this wreck should inquire with local dive centers for the most up-to-date conditions.