Peter McDonnell is a marine biologist with 24 years diving experience both as a scientific diver and a PADI diving instructor. M05866 provides diver training and marine biology education to divers. The company was formed to increase marine biology awareness and promote marine conservation amongst divers and the public. M05866 is based in the ocean side village of Schull in the far south west of the Republic of Ireland. The area remains largely unspoilt, as does the surrounding ocean.

Diving is from our new purpose built, 7m RIB 'Beagle', which is licensed by the Department of Marine for 10 divers. There are also some memorable shore dives in the area particularly on the north side of the Mizen where 30m can be found within a stones throw of the shore. If you fancy doing some shore dives just call in and ask - we'll tell you all you need to know.

If you are interested in wildlife you would be lucky to find a better place to explore. Whales and dolphins are quite common. Grey seals are ever present. Basking sharks may be seen during the plankton bloom of late spring and sunfish and turtles visit our waters too.

Part of the excitement is never knowing what may turn up! One beach we use regularly for training has played host to several trigger fish over the past few summers. Crabs, lobsters and crayfish may turn up anytime. Last summer the biggest crayfish I have seen was wandering around happily in less than 8m of water and 50m from the beach.

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