Baltimore

Baltimore is definitely the first best dive site in Ireland. The carcass of the MV Kowloon Bridge draws thousands of divers to one of the most southern tips of the country. The 295m ship sank at Stag Rock in 1986 after developing deck cracking in one of its frames. Containing a full cargo of iron ore, caused significant environmental damage. Thankfully, nature fought back, and now, the wreck itself is host to extensive flora and fauna, as well as a variety of anemones and crustaceans including lobsters.

Remarkably, this assortment of living, breathing marine glory coexists with the iron ore, which is still clearly visible on the ocean floor. It is also fascinating to see how giant beams and metal structures have been reshaped by the ocean. Roaringwater Bay includes Carbery’s Hundred Isles, the islands that offer so much varied and sheltered diving. You have a range of diving here from shore for novices to the most demanding, as found at Fastnet Rock, around 12km out to sea.

Location: Co Cork, Ireland.