Tian Xiang (Wreck) - Flic en Flac & West Coast

Ustica, a little volcanic outpost off Sicily, was Italy's first marine protected area and you can definitely tell. Drop into the reserve and you'll find an intricate world of caves and arches, sculpted by ancient eruptions. We've finned through caverns here, like Grotta Azzurra, watching sunbeams lance through the water, illuminating patches of red coral and bushy coral clinging to the walls. Keep an eye out for dusky groupers lurking in the shadows and schools of yellow barracuda cruising past. It’s a fantastic spot for divers who appreciate dramatic topography and a genuine sense of protection, especially for those looking to explore Mediterranean cave systems.

Location
Flic en Flac & West Coast, Mauritius, Indian Ocean & East Africa
Coordinates
-20.292800, 57.356300
Type
cave

Marine Protected Area: Black River Fishing Reserve

Best Time to Dive in Flic en Flac & West Coast

The warmest water temperatures in Flic en Flac & West Coast occur in January, averaging 28.0°C. The coolest conditions are in December at 28.0°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 28.0°C (air: 27.0°C)
  • February: 28.0°C (air: 27.2°C)
  • March: 28.0°C (air: 27.0°C)
  • April: 28.0°C (air: 26.3°C)
  • May: 28.0°C (air: 25.0°C)
  • June: 28.0°C (air: 23.2°C)
  • July: 28.0°C (air: 22.5°C)
  • August: 28.0°C (air: 22.5°C)
  • September: 28.0°C (air: 23.2°C)
  • October: 28.0°C (air: 24.3°C)
  • November: 28.0°C (air: 25.4°C)
  • December: 28.0°C (air: 26.7°C)

Nearby Dive Sites in Flic en Flac & West Coast

Nearest Dive Centres to Tian Xiang (Wreck)

Marine Life in Flic en Flac & West Coast

Home to 453 recorded species including 314 reef fish, 71 hard corals, 14 sea snails & nudibranchs, 12 sharks & rays, 11 seagrass & algae, 8 whales & dolphins.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Tian Xiang (Wreck)

Based on average water temperature of 28.0°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 of the Tian Xiang Wreck dive site?
The Tian Xiang Wreck is located at a depth of 45 meters. While the wreck itself rests at this depth, the maximum diveable depth for recreational divers is typically around 36 meters. This makes it a deeper dive, suitable for advanced divers.
What kind of marine life and features can divers expect to see at the Tian Xiang Wreck?
Divers visiting the Tian Xiang Wreck can expect to see an artificial reef that is progressively becoming more vibrant. The wreck, sunk in June 2015, is already a little overgrown and has attracted some fish. As time passes, the marine life and features continue to develop, offering more to explore. For more on marine species, visit our wildlife database.
What is the difficulty level for diving the Tian Xiang Wreck, and is it suitable for beginners?
The Tian Xiang Wreck is classified with an intermediate difficulty level. Given its location at a depth of 45 meters, it is generally not suitable for beginner divers. This dive site is best enjoyed by those with more experience and appropriate certifications for deeper dives.
What are the best months or times of day to dive the Tian Xiang Wreck for optimal conditions?
The provided data for the Tian Xiang Wreck does not specify the best months or times of day for optimal diving conditions. We recommend checking local dive operators in Flic en Flac for current conditions and seasonal recommendations. For general information on dive seasons, you can visit our when to dive guide.
What diving certifications are required to dive the Tian Xiang Wreck, especially for wreck penetration?
While specific certification requirements are not explicitly stated, the Tian Xiang Wreck is located at a depth of 45 meters and is classified as an intermediate dive. This typically necessitates an Advanced Open Water certification or a Deep Diver specialty. For any potential wreck penetration, which is suggested by its "cave" type classification, specialized wreck diving certifications would be essential to ensure safety. Always consult with a local dive center regarding required certifications and equipment.
What are the usual current and visibility conditions at the Tian Xiang Wreck dive site?
Divers at the Tian Xiang Wreck can generally expect good visibility, with an average of 25 meters. The provided data does not specify the usual current conditions for this dive site. It is always advisable to check with local dive operators in Flic en Flac for real-time current reports before your dive.