AFRICA SHELL

Best months: Jan–Jul, Oct–Nov

Why dive here

With 95+ marine species recorded in the area - including blue sharks, bull sharks, humpback whales, manta rays and mobula rays (devil rays) - AFRICA SHELL offers some of Bazaruto Archipelago's richest wreck diving. Water ranges 23-28°C, warmest January, February, March.

Marine lifeBlue Sharks, Bull Sharks, Humpback Whales, Manta Rays and Mobula Rays (Devil Rays) · 95+ species recorded

Water23-28°C · warmest January, February, March

CharacterWreck dive · max 29m

StandoutRich in charismatic marine life

Africa Shell is a proper historical dive, sitting at 29 metres, sunk by the Graf Spee back in 1939. We love that it’s still largely intact, a real testament to its build and the relatively calm currents down there. Dropping onto the deck, you’ll find the bow and stern sections are still clearly defined, though the midship superstructure is well collapsed now. Look closely at the metalwork, we’ve found some impressive nudibranchs tucked into the crevices, particularly along the railings. Our favourite part is exploring the cargo holds, where you can still fin through sections. Sunlight filters down, illuminating schools of snapper that dart through the shadows. It’s a photographer’s dream, that light play. On a good day, visibility can hit 20 metres, really letting you appreciate the scale of the old tanker. Keep an eye out for potato groupers, they seem to consider the wreck their personal hunting ground. It’s a dive that rewards slow exploration, perfect for those who appreciate a bit of history with their marine life.

Typical AFRICA SHELL Dive Profile

Illustrative profile based on site depth and type. Actual dive profiles vary - always follow your dive computer and training.

Safety Notes

Depth of 29m - Advanced Open Water certification recommended.

Wreck site - avoid penetration without wreck diving certification. Watch for sharp metal and entanglement hazards.

Strong currents typical this month (avg 35 cm/s). Good buoyancy control essential.

Always perform a 3-minute safety stop at 5m before surfacing.

Today06:0017:2611h 26m daylightGolden hour 16:55

AFRICA SHELL Wreck History

Year Sunk

1939

Vessel Type

tanker

Cause

scuttled

The 'Africa Shell' has a history far more dramatic than its small size would suggest. This 700-ton coastal tanker was operating in the Mozambique Channel in the early months of World War II. On November 15, 1939, she had the misfortune of crossing paths with one of Germany's most feared surface raiders, the pocket battleship 'Admiral Graf Spee'. The battleship, vastly more powerful, easily intercepted the tanker. Following the rules of cruiser warfare, the crew of the 'Africa Shell' were taken aboard the 'Graf Spee' as prisoners before the Germans scuttled the small tanker with explosive charges.

The sinking of the 'Africa Shell' was the first British merchant navy loss in the Indian Ocean during the war. Today, she rests at 29 meters in the stunning Bazaruto Archipelago, a world-class diving destination. The wreck is broken but recognizable, with her engine and boilers providing a focal point for the dive. The warm, clear waters have turned her into a spectacular artificial reef, swarming with tropical fish, moray eels, and crustaceans. Diving the 'Africa Shell' is a unique opportunity to explore a historic WWII wreck connected to a famous naval predator, all while surrounded by the incredible biodiversity of Mozambique.