PARAPORTIANI - Dar es Salaam & Offshore Islands

Paraportiani is one of our favourite spots around Dar es Salaam, not for crazy depth or pelagics, but for its sheer accessibility and history. This steamship, built in 1927, ran aground off Punguti Island in 1967 and now sits in just 5 metres of water. It’s perfect for a long, relaxed dive, even if you’re newer to wreck diving or just want to spend some serious bottom time exploring. We love finning slowly over the remains of the hull and superstructure. You can still make out the ship’s impressive 94-metre length. Hard corals have really taken hold, creating chunky formations all over the metalwork. Look closely, and you’ll spot moray eels peering out from gaps and countless damselfish flitting among the coral branches. Sometimes, if you catch it just right, the light filters through the surface, illuminating the wreck in a really ethereal way. Visibility here averages around 15 metres, occasionally pushing to 20 on a good day, but it’s always enjoyable.

Location
Dar es Salaam & Offshore Islands, Tanzania, Indian Ocean & East Africa
Coordinates
-5.486667, 39.627785
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
5m

Marine Protected Area: Pemba Channel Conservation Area

Best Time to Dive in Dar es Salaam & Offshore Islands

The warmest water temperatures in Dar es Salaam & Offshore Islands occur in April, averaging 29.3°C. The coolest conditions are in August at 25.5°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 28.2°C
  • February: 28.6°C
  • March: 29.2°C
  • April: 29.3°C
  • May: 28.1°C
  • June: 27.1°C
  • July: 25.9°C
  • August: 25.5°C
  • September: 25.8°C
  • October: 26.7°C
  • November: 27.6°C
  • December: 28.7°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Dar es Salaam & Offshore Islands

Nearest Dive Centres to PARAPORTIANI

Marine Life in Dar es Salaam & Offshore Islands

Home to 55 recorded species including 33 reef fish, 14 seagrass & algae, 2 other, 2 sea snails & nudibranchs, 1 clams & mussels, 1 starfish.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for PARAPORTIANI

Based on average water temperature of 27.6°C, currents 33 cm/s.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 28°C water needs minimal exposure protection
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins (stiff blade recommended for strong currents)
  • 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 at Paraportiani, and are there options for both beginner and advanced divers?
The dive site Paraportiani offers a typical depth of 5m. Given its intermediate difficulty rating, it is most suitable for divers with some experience, rather than absolute beginners. While not specifically for advanced divers seeking extreme depths, the wreck itself provides an interesting exploration for those comfortable with intermediate conditions.
What kind of marine life and underwater topography can divers expect to see when diving at Paraportiani?
Divers exploring Paraportiani can expect to encounter a fascinating wreck site, specifically a steam ship vessel that sank on October 25, 1967. This substantial wreck, measuring 94.2m x 13.4m, offers an intriguing underwater topography with portions of its hull and superstructure visible. While specific marine life is not detailed, wrecks typically become vibrant artificial reefs, attracting various species over time.
How challenging are the dive conditions at Paraportiani, and is it suitable for divers of all experience levels?
The dive conditions at Paraportiani are classified as intermediate. This means it is not typically suitable for absolute beginners, but rather for divers who have some experience and are comfortable with a moderate level of challenge. Divers of all experience levels beyond beginner may find this site rewarding.
What is the best time of year to dive at Paraportiani for optimal visibility and calm conditions?
Specific data regarding the best time of year for optimal visibility and calm conditions at Paraportiani is not provided in the current context. For general information on seasonal diving conditions in Tanzania, we recommend consulting our When to Dive guide.
What diving certifications are required or recommended to explore the dive sites around Paraportiani?
Given the intermediate difficulty rating for Paraportiani, divers are typically recommended to hold at least an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent. While an Open Water certification might suffice for some intermediate sites, the nature of wreck diving often benefits from additional training and experience. Always check with local dive operators for their specific requirements.
Are there strong currents or specific water conditions that divers should be aware of when planning a dive at Paraportiani?
The provided data for Paraportiani does not specify current strength or other particular water conditions that divers should be aware of. While the vessel ran aground in rough weather historically, current conditions for diving are not detailed. It is always advisable to consult with local dive centers in Dar es Salaam & Offshore Islands for up-to-date information on local conditions before planning your dive.