TIKAL - Sosua & Puerto Plata

Tikal isn't the deepest wreck you'll ever dive, sitting in a gentle 7 meters off Puerto Plata, but its sheer size is what grabs you. This motor vessel, grounded in 1975, stretches a full 110 meters, making it a proper playground. We spent a good hour just finning its length, admiring how the Caribbean has reclaimed the metal. Look closely and you'll find schools of small snapper darting through gaps in the hull, and we often spot moray eels tucked into crevices. It’s a comfortable, easy dive, perfect for those who want to spend time exploring without worrying about depth or currents. Bring a camera; the light penetration here makes for some vivid shots, especially mid-morning.

Location
Sosua & Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic, Caribbean
Coordinates
19.821806, -70.693054
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
7m

Marine Protected Area: Bahia de Luperón

Nearby Dive Sites in Sosua & Puerto Plata

Nearest Dive Centres to TIKAL

Marine Life in Sosua & Puerto Plata

Home to 238 recorded species including 212 reef fish, 6 sea snails & nudibranchs, 4 hard corals, 3 other, 3 seagrass & algae, 3 whales & dolphins.

Notable Species

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the typical diving depths and maximum depths for scuba diving in the Tikal area?
The Tikal dive site offers a typical diving depth of 7 meters. This relatively shallow depth makes it accessible for many divers to explore the wreck.
What kind of underwater sights and unique features can divers expect to see when diving near Tikal?
Divers exploring the Tikal site will encounter a fascinating motor vessel wreck, originally built in 1954 and sunk on October 20, 1975. This substantial wreck measures 110m x 14.9m and is classified as a wreck showing a portion of its hull or superstructure.
How difficult is scuba diving in the Tikal region, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
Diving at the Tikal site is classified as intermediate difficulty. While not ideal for absolute beginners, divers with some experience will find it a rewarding exploration.
What is the best time of year to go scuba diving in the Tikal area for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year for optimal diving conditions at the Tikal site. For general guidance on when to dive in the Dominican Republic, please refer to our When to Dive section.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive in the Tikal region, especially for exploring archaeological sites?
The provided data does not specify particular certification requirements for diving the Tikal wreck, nor does it classify it as an archaeological site. Given its intermediate difficulty, a minimum of an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent is generally recommended for wreck diving.
Are there strong currents or specific water conditions, like visibility or temperature, that divers should be aware of when diving near Tikal?
The provided data does not include specific information regarding currents, visibility, or water temperature for the Tikal dive site. Divers should always consult with local dive operators in Sosua & Puerto Plata for the most current conditions before planning their dive.