Peel Castle.
A shore dive that loops round St Patrick's Isle, the small island joined to Peel by a causeway, on which Peel Castle stands. The route keeps the rocks on the left and passes kelp forest, small caves and cliff faces. It takes about 45 minutes to an hour, and local seals often join divers.
What's down there.
- Loop round St Patrick's Isle
- Kelp forest
- Small caves and cliff faces
- Views of the castle walls from the water
- Grey seals
- Kelp forest
Around 10 m on the loop round the island. One listing gives about 8 m (26 ft) maximum.
Easy navigation and graded suitable for beginners. Entry is from the breakwater behind the food kiosk; the rock scramble becomes very tricky in any swell. Boat traffic means a surface marker is advisable. One guide notes a sewage outfall behind the breakwater.
How it got there.
Peel Castle was first built in the 11th century by Norwegians under King Magnus Barefoot. Most of its red sandstone walls and towers date from the 14th century, and defences were still being added as late as 1860. Its walls enclose the ruins of the Cathedral of St German, the former cathedral of the diocese of Sodor and Man. The castle is owned by Manx National Heritage.
6 dives.
From the reconstructed log — the dates follow the pattern I dived, so read them as representative rather than exact.