M.V. Alpha Funguo - Diani Beach & South Coast

Punta Francesa often gets overlooked for some of Cozumel’s flashier drift dives, but we think that’s a mistake. This shelf reef, a natural extension of Punta Dalila, lets you take your time, a luxury not always afforded on the island. We like to drop in and hug the reef at about 15 meters, letting the mild current carry us along. You’ll spot a surprising number of smaller creatures here: Goldspot Gobies peering out from their holes, Fringed Filefish blending perfectly with the coral, and those funny little Sharpnose Puffers. Our favourite moments here usually involve finding a quiet spot and just watching the Creole Wrasse stream by, or spotting an Eyed Flounder doing its camouflage act on the sand. The coral itself, especially the Branched Finger Coral and those delicate Thin Leaf Lettuce corals, creates fantastic textures and colours. It’s a great site for photographers, or anyone who appreciates a calmer pace and wants to really observe the reef life up close without battling a ripping current.

Location
Diani Beach & South Coast, Kenya, Indian Ocean & East Africa
Coordinates
-4.332500, 39.584200
Type
reef

Marine Protected Area: Diani Chale Marine

Best Time to Dive in Diani Beach & South Coast

The warmest water temperatures in Diani Beach & South Coast occur in January, averaging 28.1°C. The coolest conditions are in December at 28.1°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 28.1°C (air: 27.7°C)
  • February: 28.1°C (air: 28.2°C)
  • March: 28.1°C (air: 28.1°C)
  • April: 28.1°C (air: 26.7°C)
  • May: 28.1°C (air: 26.2°C)
  • June: 28.1°C (air: 25.3°C)
  • July: 28.1°C (air: 24.4°C)
  • August: 28.1°C (air: 24.5°C)
  • September: 28.1°C (air: 25.2°C)
  • October: 28.1°C (air: 26.2°C)
  • November: 28.1°C (air: 26.7°C)
  • December: 28.1°C (air: 27.2°C)

Nearby Dive Sites in Diani Beach & South Coast

Nearest Dive Centres to M.V. Alpha Funguo

Marine Life in Diani Beach & South Coast

Home to 446 recorded species including 284 reef fish, 96 hard corals, 27 seagrass & algae, 7 sea snails & nudibranchs, 7 sea cucumbers, 5 crabs & lobsters.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for M.V. Alpha Funguo

Based on average water temperature of 28.1°C.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 28°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 typical depth range for diving the M.V. Alpha Funguo wreck?
The M.V. Alpha Funguo wreck offers a typical depth range for diving between 18 meters and 29 meters. The maximum depth reached at this site is 27 meters. This makes it an accessible dive for those with appropriate certification and experience.
What kind of marine life and wreck features can divers expect to see at the M.V. Alpha Funguo dive site?
Divers exploring the M.V. Alpha Funguo can expect to encounter a vibrant artificial reef created by this 45-meter-long former fishing trawler. The wreck is patrolled by schools of blue-striped snappers, barracudas, batfish, and jackfish. Larger species such as groupers and kingfish are also attracted to the structure, offering excellent opportunities for marine life observation. For more on marine species, visit our wildlife database.
How difficult is the M.V. Alpha Funguo wreck dive, and is it suitable for beginners?
The M.V. Alpha Funguo wreck dive is rated as intermediate difficulty. Due to its depth range of 18m-29m and the nature of wreck diving, it is generally not recommended for absolute beginners. Divers should possess the necessary experience and certification for intermediate-level dives.
What is the best time of year to dive the M.V. Alpha Funguo for optimal conditions and marine life sightings?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive the M.V. Alpha Funguo for optimal conditions or marine life sightings. For general information on seasonal diving conditions in the region, please refer to our When to Dive guide.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive the M.V. Alpha Funguo wreck?
Given the M.V. Alpha Funguo wreck's intermediate difficulty and depth range of 18m-29m, divers typically need an Advanced Open Water Diver certification or equivalent. This ensures divers have the necessary training and experience for deeper dives. Always confirm specific requirements with your chosen dive operator.
What are the typical current and water conditions like at the M.V. Alpha Funguo dive site?
The M.V. Alpha Funguo dive site typically offers an average visibility of 13 meters. However, the provided data does not include specific information regarding typical current strength or water temperature conditions at the site. Divers should consult local dive centers for up-to-date conditions before planning their dive.