

Best for advanced divers, boat entry.
Chapel Bay, located on the largest of the Copeland Islands in Strangford Lough, is a secluded site accessible exclusively by boat. The area features extensive kelp forests that provide a habitat for various marine life. Species recorded around this area include harbour and grey seals, catsharks, sea slugs, wrasses, giant jellyfish, orange-clubbed nudibranchs, skates, common and squat lobsters, as well as various sea stars and sea hares. Water temperatures at this site vary between 8C and 15C throughout the year. Due to the nature of the location and the boat-based entry, this site is suited for advanced snorkellers.
54.66967, -5.53617
Those without permission to visit the island must stay below the high water mark on the beach.
Access is straightforward in daylight at any stage of the tide, but requires tidal planning for the currents of Donaghadee Sound. The bay is accessed by boat.
Recorded nearby, within 20km
Skill Level
Advanced
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
8-15°C
Species recorded around this area include harbour and grey seals, catsharks, sea slugs, wrasses, giant jellyfish, orange-clubbed nudibranchs, skates, common and squat lobsters, and various sea stars.
No, Chapel Bay is considered suitable for advanced snorkellers.
Access to Chapel Bay is by boat only.
Yes, Chapel Bay is a snorkelling site with a rating of 4/5.
A drysuit recommended is recommended for diving at Chapel Bay (Copeland Island) in Donaghadee. Water temperatures range from 8°C to 15°C.