

Best for beginner divers, Up to 6m, shore entry, mild current.
The Herring Pond is a natural deep-water rock pool in Strangford Lough, protected by an artificial breakwater that maintains calm conditions even when the nearby Atlantic is choppy. This site is suitable for beginners and offers a shallow environment reaching depths of up to 6 metres. Snorkellers can observe dense kelp and thongweed ecosystems. Marine life recorded here includes snails, which are very common, alongside uncommon sightings of catsharks, rock crabs, tube worms, and European green crabs. Rarer encounters include skates, giant jellyfish, various crabs, rockpool prawns, and shannies. The water remains cold throughout the year, so a 5mm wetsuit with gloves and boots is recommended for comfort. Entry is via the shore.
55.18969, -6.72028
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Recorded at this site
Depth
Up to 6m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Shore
Current
Mild
Snorkellers may encounter very common snails, as well as uncommon catsharks, rock crabs, tube worms, and European green crabs. Rarer species recorded at the site include skates, giant jellyfish, rockpool prawns, and shannies.
Yes, The Herring Pond is suitable for beginners, offering calm water conditions protected by a man-made breakwater.
The depth at The Herring Pond ranges from the surface down to approximately 6 metres.
The Herring Pond is accessed via the shore.
Yes, this site is a popular location for snorkelling and wild swimming, with a snorkel rating of 4 out of 5.
Snorkellers should be aware of potential surf conditions in the area.
The Herring Pond in Portstewart typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.