There are fierce up and down currents on the north of the island that can catch out the unwary. It is better to dive it with the guidance of an experienced skipper. At the moment Rathlin is undeveloped. There is a pub in front of the harbour. The shop and post office are extensions of people's homes.
Electricity is provided mainly by wind generators with petrol generators providing a backup.
It is peaceful, despite the influx of day trippers on the footpassenger ferry. Divers are welcome and the people are friendly, making for a totally stress free atmosphere. There are none of the drawbacks associated with some of the busier dive sites. Plans have been hatched to try to persuade the Department of the Environment to designate Rathlin a marine reserve. With its proximity to the mainland, Rathlin's popularity among divers could be about to soar.