Ireland, the ancient land of folklore and legend, sits alone in the Northwest Atlantic. The West Coast of this unique country faces headlong into the powerful Atlantic Ocean, while the East Coast overlooks a vast and oft busy Irish Sea. A varied and heavily indented coastline lends itself admirably to a feast of temperate water diving.

The North and Northwest coasts of Ireland feature a wealth of wrecks, sure to delight even the most ardent wreck divers. Moving down along the Eastern seaboard, Dublin Bay presents an unexpected assortment of underwater treats; from oversized lobsters to the famous Dublin Bay Prawn. Shift one’s attention towards the Southwest and the seascapes; both overwater and underwater; start to change dramatically. The rugged coastlines of Cork and Kerry are mirrored underwater; think sheer rock faces and stunning topography. While further up the West Coast, the counties of Clare, Galway and Mayo can hold their own on the world’s diving stage; an illustrious number of offshore islands offer unrivalled Atlantic diving where steep drop offs and colourful walls abound.

The water temperature off the West coast is moderated by the warming Gulf Stream, while nutrient rich water is ideal for a profusion of marine life. Expect an average of 9-10 degrees centigrade in the winter and spring months, and an average of 14-15 degrees centigrade during the summer and autumn. Although the waters off the Northern coast are perhaps subject to a little more severity, this must still be considered temperate and not cold water diving.

A myriad of marine life calls Ireland home. Lobsters, crayfish and conger eels will passively observe from under their rocks, while curious cuckoo wrasse, pipefish and oversized pollack swim about. Indeed, divers lucky enough to dip their fins into Irish waters frequently report close encounters with seals, dolphins and basking shark.

Diving in Ireland is a hugely popular pastime with world-class diving centres dotted around the country’s coastline. PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) is very well represented, while BSAC, CMAS, SSI and other agency qualified divers are also welcome.

By: Keith Lunt