Calderinha Wreck - Sal

The Calderinha Wreck is one of those sites that just puts a smile on our faces. We love it because it’s so accessible, sitting in just 14 metres, making it perfect for newer divers or those who just want a relaxed, long bottom time. It’s a good-sized cargo ship, lying on its starboard side, and what we find really captivating are the huge sections of the hull that have collapsed inwards, creating these fantastic swim-throughs. Sunlight filters down through the gaps, illuminating the schools of squirrelfish that dart in and out of the shadows. What really makes the Calderinha a standout for us isn’t its grand size, but the way the ocean has completely reclaimed it. The metalwork is encrusted with sponges and hard corals, and you’ll find moray eels peeking out from every nook and cranny. Keep an eye out for octopus tucked away in the darker corners of the hold, they’re often well camouflaged. Our favourite part has to be the stern, where the propeller still sits largely intact, now a busy apartment block for tiny damselfish. It’s a lovely, unhurried dive, offering plenty to explore without any challenging currents.

Location
Sal, Cape Verde, Indian Ocean & East Africa
Coordinates
16.585500, -22.917300
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
14m
Difficulty
Beginner

Wreck History - Calderinha Wreck

Vessel Type
fishing vessel
Cause
unknown

Tucked away in the sheltered bay of Calderinha on the island of Sal, this small, pleasant wreck is a highlight for many visiting divers. While the vessel's specific history and name have been lost to time, it is believed to have been a local fishing boat that found its final resting place on the sandy bottom. Its calm location has protected it from the full force of the Atlantic, preserving it as an intact and delightful dive site.

Sitting upright at a maximum depth of 14 meters, the Calderinha Wreck is perfect for novice divers, photographers, and those looking for a relaxed exploration. The clear, warm waters of Cape Verde provide excellent visibility, revealing a structure that is now completely encrusted in life. Schools of soldierfish and grunts swarm the deck, while trumpetfish and octopus can often be found hiding in its nooks. The easy conditions and abundant marine life make this a truly enjoyable dive and a perfect introduction to the underwater world of Cape Verde.

Marine Protected Area: Reserva Natural Ponta de Sinó

Nearby Dive Sites in Sal

Nearest Dive Centres to Calderinha Wreck

Marine Life in Sal

Home to 29 recorded species including 17 reef fish, 9 whales & dolphins, 1 other, 1 hard corals, 1 sea cucumbers.

Notable Species