The thrill of diving into waters new is an adventure like no other. Nine scuba divers from Sheephaven SAC converged in the early hours at Ballycastle harbour keen to experience what the Causeway Coast had to offer.
The dive brief presented by our Dive Officer of the Day, Ryan Ward, identified the S.S. Lochgarry and the North Wall of Rathlin Island as the target dive sites for the day. A mix of experience in the group yielded a blend of anxious excitement once the ropes were cast off and the charter boat set its course for Rathlin.
Sheephaven Divers aboard Aquaholics V Rathlin West Lighthouse in Background
Rathlin Island
Situated six miles off the coast of Antrim, Rathlin Island holds a special place in the hearts of divers. Recognized for its remarkable array of habitats and high species diversity, Rathlin has earned the distinction of being a designated European Special Area of Conservation. This recognition is owed to the island’s rocky reefs and submerged sea caves, which serve as thriving havens for an abundance of marine life.
The island’s reef habitats are characterised by the imposing limestone and basalt cliffs of the north wall, as well as the
boulder-strewn areas along its east and south coasts. Caves, typically found at depths ranging from 0 to 60 meters, add an extra layer of intrigue to Rathlin’s underwater landscape. The geological composition of Rathlin Island reveals a fascinating tale of its formation.
The lower rock strata, consisting of cretaceous limestone, form layered steps upon which the island stands. Over time, basalt was laid over these limestone beds in a series of volcanic eruptions, shaping much of the island’s current terrain above sea level. The tidal strength in the waters surrounding Ballycastle and Rathlin Island poses a considerable challenge to divers, necessitating meticulous planning to ensure safe dives can be undertaken.
The strength of the tides accentuates the need for utmost caution and expertise when exploring these sites – access to local knowledge is key to ensuring the dives can be conducted safely, and for the Sheephaven party this need was filled by the experienced skipper aboard Aquaholics V.
Lochgarry wreck
One of the crown jewels awaiting divers near Rathlin Island is the Lochgarry wreck. Resting in the crystal-clear waters, this submerged treasure has long enticed diving enthusiasts with its rich history and teeming marine life. Constructed in 1898, the Lochgarry boasted impressive dimensions, measuring 265 feet in length, 34 feet in beam, and with a draught of 16 feet.
In 1942, the vessel met an unfortunate fate, straying off course and running aground on rocks southeast of Rathlin Island. The Lochgarry played a crucial role in Operation Dynamo, the evacuation of British and French troops from the beaches of
Dunkirk in 1940. Today, she lies upright on the seabed at a maximum depth of 35 meters, attracting a plethora of fish species, including ling, pollack, and wrasse.
The superstructure of the vessel, adorned with sponges, anemones, and nudibranchs, presents a captivating sight to divers. Black and white tiles visible on the deck and the large chain in the hold, placed by the Royal Navy to prevent the removal of arms, are defining features of the S.S. Lochgarry; in all presenting an impressive offering to satisfy the interests of all divers in the group.
Rathlin Island second dive
After a brief surface interval at the harbour on Rathlin Island, the group set off for the second dive. The North Wall of Rathlin Island is renowned for its dramatic underwater cliffs, offering a breath-taking and awe-inspiring experience for those daring enough to take the plunge. This dive provided an immersive encounter with an abundance of marine life.
Starting in the shallows at approximately 7 meters, divers navigated to the top of the wall over a forest of kep and carefully descended to the maximum depth agreed within their buddy pairs, dictated by their experience and comfort levels for the site in question. The wall, densely populated with corals, sponges, anemones, and sea squirts, captivated divers with its vibrant display.
Shoals of fish, expertly maneuvering through the currents diverted by rocky outcrops, added to the allure of this captivating dive site. The wall in places can reach depths of 200 m and so requires excellent buoyancy control and awareness to dive safely with the changeable up, down and sidewards currents experienced at the site.
While aboard the charter, divers were treated to the splendid sight of the island’s avian inhabitants. Puffins, guillemots, and razorbills graced the surroundings by the thousands. A particular highlight was the Rathlin West Lighthouse nestled against the cliffs of Crockantirrive.
Emitting a powerful signal that shines 23 nautical miles out to sea, this lighthouse stands as a beacon of safety for mariners navigating our coast. Unique in its construction, the light is located at the base of the lighthouse itself, intended to ensure visibility even in dense, low-lying fog that often shrouds the island.
Presentation of Prizes at Dunfanaghy Golf Club
Golf fundraiser
Back on dry land focus quickly turned to the Club’s golf fundraiser which took place on June 16th after weeks of careful preparation by Sheephaven’s dedicated fundraising team led by Darragh McGowan. A phenomenal response from many local and national businesses and individuals resulted in a very successful event which raised much-needed funds for Sheephaven’s volunteer Search and Recovery Unit.
Sheephaven’s SAR unit provides an important civic function, and its club members, who are trained to a national standard, give their time and services voluntarily, often at a moment’s notice and sometimes for many days at a time. The club’s Search and Recovery Unit assists the Gardaí, Malin Head Coast Guard, the RNLI, as well as other voluntary and community groups throughout the North Region.
The event in Dunfanaghy, which was a first for Sheephaven, attracted avid golfers and dedicated supporters all eager to contribute, and the generosity and enthusiasm for this event was truly outstanding.