KILKENNY - Northumberland & Northeast

Alright, the Kilkenny. Now, this isn't a deep dive, not by a long shot. But for a shallow wreck, it's genuinely fascinating. We love how accessible it is, sitting upright in around 7 metres, making it perfect for longer bottom times and less demanding on air. What you’re looking at is a container ship, sunk after a collision back in '91, and she's surprisingly intact, considering. You can really make out the ship’s structure; the bow and stern are distinct, and the holds are open enough to peek into. We’d suggest exploring the deck first, looking for the tell-tale signs of machinery and fittings now draped in an emerald cloak of algae. The main draw for us, though, is the sheer amount of life that’s made the Kilkenny home. Think plump lobsters peeking out from every crevice, hefty crabs scuttling across the deck plates, and schools of coalfish darting through the superstructure. It's a proper ecosystem down there, all built around this fallen giant. It’s a great site for newer wreck divers or anyone who just wants a relaxed, interesting dive.

Location
Northumberland & Northeast, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
53.344955, -6.115983
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
7m

Nearby Dive Sites in Northumberland & Northeast

Nearest Dive Centres to KILKENNY

Marine Life in Northumberland & Northeast

Home to 132 recorded species including 53 reef fish, 15 whales & dolphins, 11 sharks & rays, 10 other, 10 seagrass & algae, 9 crabs & lobsters.

Notable Species

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the typical diving depths for recreational divers exploring sites accessible from Kilkenny?
The dive site Kilkenny itself is a wreck located at a depth of 7 meters. This relatively shallow depth makes it an accessible site for many recreational divers exploring the Northumberland & Northeast area.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see when diving in the areas frequented by Kilkenny divers?
When diving at the Kilkenny site, divers can expect to explore the underwater features of a container ship wreck. This vessel, sunk in 1991, is classified as a wreck showing a portion of its hull or superstructure, offering an intriguing structure to explore. Specific details about marine life at this particular site are not available in the provided data.
How challenging are the dive sites commonly visited by the Kilkenny Sub Aqua Club, and what skill level is recommended?
The Kilkenny dive site is rated with an intermediate difficulty. This classification indicates that divers should have a solid foundation of experience and skills suitable for navigating wreck environments. It's recommended that divers are comfortable with potential currents or reduced visibility that can sometimes be associated with such sites.
What is the best time of year to go diving in the coastal areas near Kilkenny, considering weather and water conditions?
The provided data does not include specific information regarding the best time of year to go diving in the coastal areas near Kilkenny, nor details on typical weather or water conditions. For general guidance on optimal diving seasons in the United Kingdom, you may wish to consult DivePlnr's When to Dive section.
What diving certifications are typically required to participate in dives organized by clubs in the Kilkenny area?
The provided data does not specify the diving certifications typically required to participate in dives at sites like Kilkenny or those organized by local clubs. Divers should always check with their dive operator or club for specific certification requirements.
What are the usual water conditions, currents, and visibility like at dive sites accessible to Kilkenny-based divers?
The available data for the Kilkenny dive site does not provide specific details regarding usual water conditions, currents, or visibility. These environmental factors can fluctuate based on local weather, tides, and seasonal changes in the Northumberland & Northeast region.