MIRA-TERRA - Santiago

Mira-Terra isn’t a deep dive, peaking at about ten metres, but it’s one of our favourite wreck dives around Santiago. This old motor vessel, built in Lisbon back in '57, ran aground doing inter-island service in 1970. She sits upright, pretty much intact, giving you a real sense of her scale as you approach. We love swimming through the old cargo holds, where the light filters down in shafts, illuminating schools of grunts and snappers that have made it home. What really gets us about Mira-Terra is the way the wreck has become a living reef. Moray eels peek out from every crevice, and the deck is carpeted in colourful sponges and soft corals. Keep an eye out for scorpionfish, they blend in perfectly against the rusty metal. It’s a superb site for photographers, especially with the sun high overhead, bringing out the wreck’s details and the vibrant colours of the marine life. Perfect for a long, relaxed dive, even if you’re newer to wreck diving.

Location
Santiago, Cape Verde, Indian Ocean & East Africa
Coordinates
15.359333, -23.157333
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
10m

Marine Protected Area: Parque Natural Norte da Ilha do Maio

Nearby Dive Sites in Santiago

Nearest Dive Centres to MIRA-TERRA

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 is the typical maximum depth for recreational diving at the MIRA-TERRA dive site?
The MIRA-TERRA dive site offers a typical maximum depth of 10 meters, making it accessible for many recreational divers. This relatively shallow depth allows for extended bottom times and excellent light penetration. You can explore more about diving in Santiago, Cape Verde.
What marine life and underwater features, such as reefs or caves, can divers expect to encounter at MIRA-TERRA?
The MIRA-TERRA dive site is primarily a wreck dive, featuring the remains of a motor vessel sunk on July 25, 1970. Divers can expect to explore the hull and superstructure of this 55.8m x 8.8m vessel. While the data doesn't specify particular marine life, wrecks often become artificial reefs, attracting various species over time.
How difficult is diving at MIRA-TERRA, and is it suitable for divers with an Open Water certification?
Diving at the MIRA-TERRA site is classified as intermediate difficulty. Given its maximum depth of 10 meters, it is generally suitable for divers with an Open Water certification, as this depth falls well within typical Open Water limits. However, divers should always assess their comfort and experience with wreck diving conditions.
What is the best time of year to dive MIRA-TERRA for optimal visibility and water temperature?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year for optimal visibility or water temperature at the MIRA-TERRA dive site. For general information on diving conditions in the region, you might consult resources on when to dive in Cape Verde.
Are there any specific diving certifications, beyond Open Water, recommended or required for certain areas of MIRA-TERRA?
While the MIRA-TERRA dive site is an intermediate wreck dive at 10 meters, the provided data does not specify any certifications beyond Open Water that are explicitly recommended or required for certain areas. However, for those interested in exploring wrecks more extensively, an Advanced Open Water or Wreck Diver Specialty certification could enhance your experience and safety.
What are the prevailing currents and general water conditions, including thermoclines, typically like at the MIRA-TERRA dive site?
The available data for the MIRA-TERRA dive site does not provide specific information regarding prevailing currents, general water conditions, or the presence of thermoclines. Divers should always check with local dive operators for the most current conditions before planning their dive at MIRA-TERRA.