Dive into Adventure with Valentia Island’s Pristine Waters
Valentia Island is a diver’s paradise, offering access to some of Ireland’s most captivating dive sites.
Unveil the Depths of Valentia Island
The Gulf Stream’s influence ensures that Valentia Island’s waters are warmer than other northern European diving locations, ranging from 12ºC in early season to a pleasant 21ºC in late summer. Visibility can reach up to 30 metres on exceptional days, averaging around 20 metres, with a minimum of about 7 metres on less ideal days. Our waters have been featured in National Geographic, highlighting the world-renowned dive sites surrounding the island.
Explore Local Dive Sites
Valentia Harbour and the Island:
- Basalt Point, Beginish Island: Dive among striking boulders at around 35 metres, featuring fascinating gullies and swim-throughs.
- Knightstown Pier Night Dive: Ideal for a night dive in shallow waters (approx. 3 metres). The pier’s gaps and stones host a variety of marine life, including congers, lobsters, and pipefish. The prolific squat lobsters add to the unique underwater experience.
Bray Head:
- Coordinates: 51°52.800N 10°25.795W
Dive at the western end of Valentia Island, where ledges range from 10 to 40 metres. Enjoy vibrant underwater colours, abundant fish life, and seabirds. This site is best visited during slack water.
Skellig Coast Dives:
- Doulus Head
Located north of Valentia Island, this shallow dive (around 20 metres) offers colourful flora and fauna, with intriguing caves to explore.
- Oilean an Iasc (Fish Island)
North of Valentia Harbour, this site is rich with fish and crustaceans. Diving between 10 and 30 metres reveals numerous nooks and crannies—bring a torch for the best experience.
- Great Skellig Island
A 40-minute RIB ride from Portmagee, this site features spectacular diving at depths between 15 and 35 metres. Expect sheer drop-offs, ledges teeming with marine life, and the chance to interact with playful seals. Visibility often exceeds 30 metres.
- Little Skellig Island
Explore the remains of an ancient wreck and a large seal colony. The southwest tip of the island provides excellent diving conditions.
Contact:
For more information or to book your diving trip, contact Seán Moran or Valentia Island Sea Sports & Adventures. Ensure you bring your own gear; however, air can be provided if you don’t have cylinders, and we offer refills once your cylinder is tested. Qualified divers should have their diver cards available for inspection.