HMML 563
Protected Area
Embouchure de l'Argens
Why dive here
With 157+ marine species recorded in the area - including blue sharks, dolphins, dwarf minke whales, humpback whales and mobula rays (devil rays) - HMML 563 offers some of Marseille & Calanques's richest wreck diving. Water ranges 14-25°C, warmest July, August, September.
The HMML 563 is a deep one, dropping right down to 60 metres, so it’s definitely one for the experienced tech divers among us. This isn’t a leisurely cruise; it’s a focused dive on a piece of history, sunk by a mine during Operation Dragoon in 1944. We love the eerie stillness down here, the way the light barely penetrates, giving the wreck a truly atmospheric feel. What you get is a launch vessel, still remarkably intact for its age and the circumstances of its demise. Our favourite part is exploring the deck, which, despite the depth, still offers enough structure to feel like you’re truly navigating a sunken ship. You’ll find conger eels peering from every crevice, big groupers patrolling the hull, and schools of amberjacks circling above the mast. It's a deep, dark dive, so good buoyancy and trim are essential. We’d suggest going in late summer for the best chance of decent visibility.
Typical HMML 563 Dive Profile
Illustrative profile based on site depth and type. Actual dive profiles vary - always follow your dive computer and training.
Safety Notes
Maximum depth 60m exceeds recreational limits (40m). Technical diving certification and equipment required.
Wreck site - avoid penetration without wreck diving certification. Watch for sharp metal and entanglement hazards.
Always perform a 3-minute safety stop at 5m before surfacing.
Nearest Dive Centres to HMML 563
Dive shops near HMML 563
Club Sous l'Eau
CIP Fréjus
Saint Aygulf Plongée
École de plongée des Issambres
H2O
La Palanquée
Reviews for HMML 563
Conditions
Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for HMML 563
HMML 563 Ocean Conditions
Monthly averages for HMML 563, sourced from Open-Meteo marine data - nearest station: Open-Meteo marine grid (43.11, 5.89) (32km away)
October Averages
Sea Temperature
21°C
69°F · Range: 15.7–23.1°C
Air Temperature
18°C
64°F
Wind Speed
6.69 m/s
13.0 knots
Atmospheric Pressure
1016.9 hPa
Based on 4 years of monitoring data · Data sources: Open-Meteo marine data
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