GATHPOOL - Boa Vista

Gathpool isn't just a wreck; it's a testament to the ocean's reclaiming power, sitting right off Boa Vista’s shores. We love how accessible it is, sometimes even visible from the surface on a calm day, perfect for a relaxed dive or even a snorkel if you’re keen. The site itself is the skeletal remains of a sailing vessel, broken into several sections, yet each piece tells a story. We’ve spent hours weaving through the ribs of the hull, spotting the resident parrotfish nibbling at the encrusting corals. What makes Gathpool special is this interplay of history and biology. You’ll fin over what used to be the deck, now a haven for schools of juvenile barracuda that shimmer in the sunlight. Our favourite tip? Go early in the morning. The light penetration then is incredible, illuminating the nooks where moray eels often peer out. It’s a gentle dive, suited to those who enjoy exploring something tangible, rather than just drifting past a reef. Expect to see plenty of damselfish darting amongst the rusted metal, and if you’re lucky, a turtle might glide by, treating the wreck as just another part of its territory.

Location

Boa Vista, Cape Verde, Indian Ocean & East Africa

Coordinates

16.158333, -22.716667

Type

wreck

Maximum Depth

0m

Marine Protected Area: Parque Natural do Norte