EL GUAIQUERI - Aruba Leeward Coast

El Guaiqueri is one of our favourite shallow wrecks, perfect for a long, relaxed dive or even a snorkel if the conditions are calm. This isn't a deep plunge; the wreck sits in just 4 metres of water, so you get incredible light penetration, painting the scene in blues and greens. She ran aground back in '83, a victim of a navigational error and then some serious pillaging, but what's left is a substantial, easily explored shell. We love finning slowly over her 75-metre length, peering into the open holds where schooling grunt and snapper often hang out, feeling the slight sway of the water around us. The superstructure is particularly fun to navigate, with plenty of swim-throughs and crevices for moray eels and lobsters. Look closely at the hull plates for the small stuff – blennies peering out of holes, tiny crabs scuttling across the growth. The visibility here is usually excellent, making it a brilliant spot for photographers, especially when the sun is high. If you're looking for a low-stress wreck dive with plenty to see without the pressure of depth or complex navigation, El Guaiqueri is a real winner.

Location
Aruba Leeward Coast, Aruba, Caribbean
Coordinates
12.445000, -71.543335
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
4m

Best Time to Dive in Aruba Leeward Coast

The warmest water temperatures in Aruba Leeward Coast occur in January, averaging 27.7°C. The coolest conditions are in December at 27.7°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 27.7°C (air: 26.7°C)
  • February: 27.7°C (air: 26.5°C)
  • March: 27.7°C (air: 26.8°C)
  • April: 27.7°C (air: 27.5°C)
  • May: 27.7°C (air: 28.0°C)
  • June: 27.7°C (air: 28.4°C)
  • July: 27.7°C (air: 28.4°C)
  • August: 27.7°C (air: 28.9°C)
  • September: 27.7°C (air: 29.5°C)
  • October: 27.7°C (air: 29.0°C)
  • November: 27.7°C (air: 27.7°C)
  • December: 27.7°C (air: 27.4°C)

Nearby Dive Sites in Aruba Leeward Coast

Nearest Dive Centres to EL GUAIQUERI

Marine Life in Aruba Leeward Coast

Home to 92 recorded species including 55 reef fish, 7 sea snails & nudibranchs, 7 hard corals, 6 crabs & lobsters, 4 other, 4 seagrass & algae.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for EL GUAIQUERI

Based on average water temperature of 27.7°C.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 28°C water needs minimal exposure protection
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical diving depth at El Guaiqueri dive site?
The typical diving depth at the El Guaiqueri dive site is a shallow 4 meters. This makes it an accessible wreck dive for many skill levels, offering a unique experience in the waters off Aruba.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can be seen at El Guaiqueri?
At El Guaiqueri, the primary underwater feature is the wreck of a motor vessel, measuring 75.9m x 12.8m, which sank on September 4, 1983. As a classified wreck showing portions of its hull or superstructure, it provides an interesting structure to explore. While specific marine life is not detailed, wrecks often attract a variety of reef fish and other creatures, which you can learn more about in our wildlife database.
How challenging is diving at El Guaiqueri for different skill levels?
Diving at El Guaiqueri is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. This suggests it's suitable for divers with some experience beyond entry-level certification. Its shallow depth of 4 meters can make it manageable, but intermediate skills are recommended for navigating the wreck safely.
What is the best time of year to dive at El Guaiqueri for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive at El Guaiqueri for optimal conditions. For general information on when to dive in the Aruba region, you might consult our When to Dive guide.
Are there any specific diving certifications required to dive at El Guaiqueri?
While the data classifies El Guaiqueri as an intermediate dive, specific certification requirements are not explicitly stated. Generally, an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent is recommended for intermediate wreck dives to ensure diver safety and enjoyment. Always check with local dive operators in Aruba for their specific requirements.
What are the typical currents and visibility conditions at El Guaiqueri dive site?
The provided data for El Guaiqueri does not include information on typical currents or visibility conditions. For up-to-date conditions, it's always best to consult with local dive centers in Aruba before planning your dive. They can provide the most current information for the Aruba Leeward Coast.