GABARRA TM-60 - Aruba Leeward Coast

The Gabarra TM-60, a former US Navy landing craft, is a standout wreck for a reason. At only 17 meters deep, it’s an accessible dive, perfect for those who want time to really poke around. We love how the wreck sits upright, almost like it’s still waiting to deliver cargo, making for some fantastic swim-throughs. You’ll weave through the open cargo hold, imagining its past life, while schools of snapper and grunt shimmer just beyond your reach. It's not a massive wreck, but it’s dense with character. The metal plates are now covered in sponges and soft corals, a riot of purples and oranges, and we always find a curious barracuda or two hovering near the bow. Our favourite part? Peeking into the small nooks and crannies where you often spot moray eels tucked away, their heads just visible. It’s a photographer’s dream, especially on a sunny day when the light penetrates right into the hold, creating an ethereal glow. Head there mid-morning, after the earlier boat traffic has cleared out, for the calmest conditions. The Gabarra truly feels like a living reef, a testament to the ocean’s ability to reclaim.

Location
Aruba Leeward Coast, Aruba, Caribbean
Coordinates
11.970833, -70.304170
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
17m

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 GABARRA TM-60

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 GABARRA TM-60

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