Main pic: Sheephaven SAC’s Joanne O’Hare with her find!
Members of Sheephaven Sub-Aqua Club (SAC) discovered what they described as a ‘nest of golfballs’ during their weekly dive off the west Donegal coast last weekend.
They enjoyed a welcome return to the scenic Boatstrand Pier at Carnboy, Carrickfinn, for their Sunday meet-up. Upon arrival, they encountered the local swimming group, the ‘Boatstrand Buoys and Gulls’, finishing their morning swim. These regulars frequent this beautiful spot, some swimming as early as 6.30 am up to five days a week, year-round.
Members of Sheephaven Sub-Aqua Club (SAC) at Boatstrand Pier.
Conditions presented some challenges, with a strong south-westerly wind creating a choppy sea. Nevertheless, the group proceeded northward along the coast for 1 km, observing the seabed’s gradual transition from sand to shingle, then to pebbles and larger rocks.
The water clarity was excellent, allowing for clear views of a vibrant marine ecosystem. They observed crabs, schools of small fish navigating through kelp forests, flatfish camouflaged in the sandy seabed near the beach, and even a small cuttlefish close to the slipway. A highlight occurred when Dominic Roarty reported a rare sighting of a school of 10 squid swimming in unison, potentially fleeing a predator. Dominic described their movement as if “they were swimming for their lives,” prompting him to head towards the shore!
Another intriguing discovery was an underwater “nest” of golf balls, undoubtedly the result of someone’s errant tee shots. This presented a perfect opportunity for Willie Sheridan, a seasoned instructor with over 50 years of experience in swimming, water safety, scuba diving, and snorkelling, to provide a masterclass in duck diving. His eager student, Joanne “I can’t do it!” O’Hare, happily surfaced with a prized golf ball, much to her own delight.
Sunday’s club snorkel provided an excellent opportunity for members to continue training for the annual Fin Swim, scheduled for Saturday, 19th July.
The club extends a huge thank you to Bridie Sharkey for introducing them to this hidden gem, and to An Caisleáin Óir in Annagry for the delicious breakfast and endless cups of tea!
Sheephaven Sub Aqua Club will return to Portnablagh tomorrow evening, 25th June, with a meeting time of 7pm.
Sheephaven SAC divers find ‘nest of golf balls’ off Donegal coast! was last modified: June 24th, 2025 by
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