DON ADAN - Lake Atitlan

Don Adan isn’t your typical Caribbean wreck dive. Forget warm, blue water and colourful corals. This is Lake Atitlan, a high-altitude volcanic lake, and diving here is a different beast entirely. We love Don Adan because it’s a tangible piece of local history, sitting in a freshwater environment that feels incredibly unique. The wreck itself, a fishing vessel sunk back in ’89, is surprisingly intact for its age and the fresh water has preserved it well. When you drop down, the visibility varies – sometimes it’s 10 metres, sometimes less – but the water temperature hovers around a crisp 20°C. You’ll find the hull is covered in a fine layer of algae, giving it a slightly ghostly appearance. Our favourite part is exploring the deck, where fishing gear still lies scattered, and peeking into the wheelhouse. Keep an eye out for the freshwater crabs that scuttle across the metal and the small schools of *mojarra* that dart in and out of the shadows. This is a dive for those who appreciate history, a bit of mystery, and don’t mind a cooler, darker experience. It’s perfect for divers looking for something truly off the beaten path, away from the usual ocean sites.

Location
Lake Atitlan, Guatemala, Central America
Coordinates
14.500000, -92.183334
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
0m

Best Time to Dive in Lake Atitlan

The warmest water temperatures in Lake Atitlan occur in January, averaging 28.4°C. The coolest conditions are in December at 28.4°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 28.4°C (air: 17.9°C)
  • February: 28.4°C (air: 18.3°C)
  • March: 28.4°C (air: 18.7°C)
  • April: 28.4°C (air: 19.2°C)
  • May: 28.4°C (air: 19.4°C)
  • June: 28.4°C (air: 18.7°C)
  • July: 28.4°C (air: 19.3°C)
  • August: 28.4°C (air: 19.2°C)
  • September: 28.4°C (air: 18.9°C)
  • October: 28.4°C (air: 18.8°C)
  • November: 28.4°C (air: 18.3°C)
  • December: 28.4°C (air: 17.8°C)

Nearby Dive Sites in Lake Atitlan

Nearest Dive Centres to DON ADAN

Marine Life in Lake Atitlan

Home to 2 recorded species including 1 other, 1 reef fish.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for DON ADAN

Based on average water temperature of 28.4°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 the DON ADAN dive site?
The DON ADAN dive site features a wreck located at a depth of 0m. This fishing vessel, built in 1977 and sunk in 1989, is classified as a wreck showing any portion of its hull or superstructure. Divers can explore this unique site in Lake Atitlan, Guatemala.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at DON ADAN?
At DON ADAN, divers will primarily explore the fascinating wreck of a fishing vessel. This vessel, thought to be a victim of piracy, offers an intriguing historical underwater feature. Specific details about marine life at this site are not provided in our current data, but you can explore general species information in DivePlnr's wildlife database.
How difficult is diving at DON ADAN, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
Diving at the DON ADAN site is rated as intermediate difficulty. While not explicitly for beginners, divers with some experience and appropriate training should find it manageable. We recommend that less experienced divers consider guided dives or further training before exploring this unique wreck in Lake Atitlan.
What is the best time of year to dive at DON ADAN for optimal conditions?
Information regarding the best time of year for optimal diving conditions at the DON ADAN site is not available in our current data. For general guidance on seasonal diving conditions in the region, please refer to DivePlnr's 'When to Dive' section.
Are there any specific diving certifications required to dive at DON ADAN?
Specific diving certifications required for the DON ADAN site are not detailed in the provided information. However, given its intermediate difficulty rating, divers should possess a foundational certification like Open Water Diver and have some experience. Always ensure you have the necessary skills and training for the conditions you plan to encounter.
What are the usual currents and water conditions like at the DON ADAN dive site?
Details regarding the usual currents and specific water conditions at the DON ADAN dive site are not provided in our current data. As it is located in Lake Atitlan, conditions may differ from typical ocean dives. Divers should always consult with local dive operators for the most up-to-date information before planning their dive.