West Coast, Ireland

    HMS Mashona

    Best months: Jul–Aug

    Why dive here

    With 169+ marine species recorded in the area - including dolphins, dwarf minke whales, humpback whales, ocean sunfish (mola mola) and octopuses - HMS Mashona offers some of West Coast's richest wreck diving. Water ranges 8-17°C, warmest July, August, September.

    Best timeJul–Aug
    WetsuitA 5mm wetsuit
    Marine lifeDolphins, Dwarf Minke Whales, Humpback Whales, Ocean Sunfish (Mola Mola) and Octopuses · 169+ species recorded
    Water8-17°C · warmest July, August, September
    CharacterWreck dive
    StandoutExceptional marine biodiversity

    The Mashona, a Tribal-class destroyer, is a dive for those who appreciate a proper piece of history on the seabed, not just some scattered debris. We love how intact she is, even after all these years out on the exposed West Coast. Dropping down, you really get a sense of her scale, the hull still largely recognisable despite the battering. Our favourite part is the bow, often shrouded in a thick school of poor cod, so many they sometimes obscure the light filtering down. We've seen dogfish tucked into crevices and occasionally a curious anglerfish peering out from a dark corner. Visibility here can be a bit of a lottery, sometimes a crisp 15 metres, other days a moody 5, but either way, the Mashona’s character shines through. We'd suggest checking the tides; a slack water dive makes exploring the internal spaces, where possible, much more enjoyable. It’s a site for experienced wreck divers who don't mind a bit of current and want to connect with a genuine piece of naval heritage.

    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.

    Today06:0617:0210h 57m daylightGolden hour 16:15

    Reviews for HMS Mashona

    Sign in to write a review

    Conditions

    Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for HMS Mashona

    HMS Mashona Ocean Conditions

    Monthly averages for HMS Mashona, sourced from Open-Meteo marine data - nearest station: Open-Meteo marine grid (53.32, -9.66) (22km away)

    ExcellentGreatGoodFairPoor★Best monthsThis month

    October Averages

    Sea Temperature

    14°C

    56°F · Range: 11.7–15.4°C

    Air Temperature

    12°C

    54°F

    Wind Speed

    8.2 m/s

    15.9 knots

    Atmospheric Pressure

    1007.4 hPa

    Based on 4 years of monitoring data · Data sources: Open-Meteo marine data

    Plan & book

    Ways to dive West Coast, from day trips to liveaboards.

    Day trips & courses

    via GetYourGuide

    Guided dives, courses and snorkel trips with instant booking.

    Find dive trips in West Coast

    Places to stay

    via Booking.com

    Hotels and dive resorts near West Coast.

    Search stays in West Coast

    Dive insurance

    Most travel insurance excludes or limits scuba. Check what you need before you go.

    Dive insurance explained

    Partner links: we may earn a commission if you book, at no extra cost to you. How we make money

    Where to Stay near HMS Mashona

    Prices from Booking.com. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

    Back to West Coast