COUNTY OF CARMARTHEN - Santiago

The County of Carmarthen, what a glorious mess she is. This old steamship, sunk way back in 1922, isn’t about dramatic depths – she’s practically a snorkel site at a maximum of two metres. But don’t let that fool you. We love this wreck precisely *because* she’s so shallow and so thoroughly broken up. It's like an archaeological dig in real-time. You’re not penetrating cabins here, you’re swimming over, through, and around the skeletal remains of a substantial vessel. The sheer size of her, 105 metres long, means you could spend an hour just meandering through the twisted metal plates and enormous beams. Sunlight penetrates everywhere, illuminating schools of tiny baitfish that shimmer like liquid silver between the corroded ribs. Look closely and you’ll find plenty of cleaner shrimp busying themselves, and often a moray eel peeking out from under a particularly hefty piece of steel. Our favourite spot is near the stern, where the engine block is clearly visible, now completely overgrown with soft corals. It’s a photographer’s dream, particularly on a calm morning when the surface is like glass. Ideal for anyone who loves history and doesn’t need deep water to feel immersed.

Location
Santiago, Cape Verde, Indian Ocean & East Africa
Coordinates
15.334333, -23.160667
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
2m

Marine Protected Area: Parque Natural Norte da Ilha do Maio

Nearby Dive Sites in Santiago

Nearest Dive Centres to COUNTY OF CARMARTHEN

Marine Life in Santiago

Home to 43 recorded species including 35 reef fish, 4 whales & dolphins, 3 hard corals, 1 other.

Notable Species

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the typical dive depths in Carmarthenshire, and are there options for both shallow and deep dives?
For the specific wreck site, the COUNTY OF CARMARTHEN, the reported dive depth is 2 meters. This makes it an excellent option for very shallow diving and exploration of the wreck. Our current data does not provide information on typical depths for other sites in the broader 'Carmarthenshire' region, so we cannot confirm options for deeper dives there.
What kind of marine life and underwater attractions can divers expect to see when diving in Carmarthenshire?
When diving at the COUNTY OF CARMARTHEN site, divers can expect to explore the impressive remains of a steam ship vessel. This significant underwater attraction, sunk on July 29, 1922, measures 105.5m x 15.5m. The site is classified as a dangerous wreck, offering a unique historical exploration, though specific marine life details are not provided.
How challenging is diving in Carmarthenshire, and are there suitable dive sites for beginners as well as experienced divers?
Diving at the COUNTY OF CARMARTHEN wreck site is classified as intermediate difficulty. Furthermore, the site is designated as a 'Dangerous wreck', indicating it requires careful navigation and experience. Therefore, it is best suited for divers with some prior experience rather than absolute beginners.
What is the best time of year to go scuba diving in Carmarthenshire for optimal conditions and marine life sightings?
Information regarding the best time of year for optimal diving conditions or marine life sightings at the COUNTY OF CARMARTHEN site is not available in our current data. We recommend checking with local dive operators in Cape Verde for up-to-date seasonal advice to ensure the best experience.
What scuba diving certifications are typically required to dive at sites within Carmarthenshire?
Our current data does not specify the exact scuba diving certifications required for the COUNTY OF CARMARTHEN wreck site. However, given its 'intermediate' difficulty and 'dangerous wreck' classification, divers should possess appropriate training and experience. It is always best to confirm specific certification requirements with local dive operators in Cape Verde.
What are the usual water conditions, currents, and visibility like for diving in Carmarthenshire?
Details regarding the usual water conditions, currents, or visibility for diving at the COUNTY OF CARMARTHEN site are not provided in our current data. For the most accurate and up-to-date information on these factors, we recommend contacting local dive centers in Cape Verde before your trip.