WITWATER (STERN PART) - Bocas del Toro

The Witwater’s stern, sitting in just four metres of water, is a proper time capsule. We love how accessible it is, a perfect second dive or even a snorkel if you’re not geared up. This old tanker, split in two back in ‘68, has settled into a vibrant artificial reef. You’ll weave through massive propeller blades, the rudder, and skeletal remains of the engine room. Sunlight dapples through the structure, illuminating schools of snapper and grunt that dart between the corroded metal. Keep an eye out for the big green morays, they’ve made the Witwater their permanent address. It’s a photographer’s dream, especially on a sunny morning when the light is just right and the visibility is at its best. Definitely one of our favourite shallow wrecks in Bocas.

Location
Bocas del Toro, Panama, Central America
Coordinates
9.421667, -79.810555
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
4m

Marine Protected Area: Portobelo

Best Time to Dive in Bocas del Toro

The warmest water temperatures in Bocas del Toro occur in December, averaging 29.4°C. The coolest conditions are in November at 28.3°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 29.3°C
  • February: 29.1°C
  • March: 28.9°C
  • April: 29.1°C
  • May: 29.1°C
  • June: 29.0°C
  • July: 29.1°C
  • August: 29.2°C
  • September: 29.0°C
  • October: 28.7°C
  • November: 28.3°C
  • December: 29.4°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Bocas del Toro

Nearest Dive Centres to WITWATER (STERN PART)

Marine Life in Bocas del Toro

Home to 175 recorded species including 166 reef fish, 4 sharks & rays, 2 hard corals, 2 other, 1 whales & dolphins.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for WITWATER (STERN PART)

Based on average water temperature of 29.0°C, currents 7 cm/s.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 29°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 maximum depth of the "WITWATER (STERN PART)" dive site, and what are the depths of its key features?
The WITWATER (STERN PART) dive site has a maximum depth of 4 meters. While specific depths for individual features are not detailed, the entire wreck lies in this shallow range, making it accessible for many divers. This shallow depth allows for extended bottom times and ample light penetration.
What kind of marine life and wreck features can divers expect to see when exploring the "WITWATER (STERN PART)"?
Divers exploring the WITWATER (STERN PART) can expect to encounter the remains of a substantial tanker vessel, built in 1943 and sunk in 1968. The wreck, measuring 111.6m x 18.3m, shows portions of its hull and superstructure, offering interesting structures to explore. While specific marine life isn't detailed, wrecks often become artificial reefs, attracting various marine species over time.
How challenging is the "WITWATER (STERN PART)" dive site, particularly regarding its overall difficulty and suitability for wreck penetration?
The WITWATER (STERN PART) dive site is classified as having an intermediate difficulty. While the wreck shows portions of its hull or superstructure, making some areas potentially accessible, wreck penetration requires specialized training and should only be attempted by appropriately certified and experienced divers. Always prioritize safety and dive within your limits.
What is the best time of year and what tidal conditions are ideal for diving the "WITWATER (STERN PART)" to experience good visibility and calmer currents?
Information regarding the best time of year, ideal tidal conditions, typical visibility, and calmer currents for diving the WITWATER (STERN PART) is not provided in the current data. For optimal diving conditions, it is always recommended to consult local dive operators or check a when-to-dive guide specific to the Bocas del Toro region closer to your planned trip.
What scuba diving certifications are recommended or required to safely dive the "WITWATER (STERN PART)" dive site, especially for exploring its deeper sections and interior?
Given the WITWATER (STERN PART) dive site's intermediate difficulty and shallow maximum depth of 4 meters, an Open Water Diver certification is generally sufficient for exploring the exterior of the wreck. For any potential interior exploration or wreck penetration, which is not explicitly detailed as safe or possible, advanced wreck diving certifications and specialized equipment would be required. Always dive within your certification limits and with appropriate training.
What are the typical current strengths and visibility conditions encountered at the "WITWATER (STERN PART)" dive site?
The provided data for the WITWATER (STERN PART) dive site does not include specific details on typical current strengths or visibility conditions. Divers planning to visit this site should consult with local dive centers in Bocas del Toro for up-to-date information on prevailing conditions.