BAKLAN
Protected Area
NISIDES SARONIKOU KOLPOU KAI THALASSIA PERIOCHI
Why dive here
BAKLAN is a wreck dive where divers can encounter dolphins and sea turtles. Water ranges 15-26°C, warmest July, August, September.
Baklan isn't your typical Mediterranean wreck. At a mere 2m deep, it’s less a dive and more a snorkel, but don't let the shallowness fool you. This isn't just some old boat; it’s an 84-meter Bulgarian fishing trawler, sunk in 1991, and its sheer size so close to the surface is genuinely impressive. We love tracing the outline of the deck, seeing the huge winches and trawling gear that still sit where they did when she went down. The mast breaks the surface, a stark reminder of the vessel’s past life. Sunlight streams through the openings, creating these beautiful, shifting patterns over the metal. It's a fantastic spot for photographers, especially early in the morning before any wind picks up and ruffles the surface. You'll often find schools of damselfish flitting through the superstructure, and the odd octopus peeking out from a darkened corner. It's a unique experience, allowing you to really take your time and appreciate the scale of a ship this big, without the pressure of a deep dive. Perfect for snorkelers, freedivers, or even just a quick dip after a boat trip.
Typical BAKLAN Dive Profile
Illustrative profile based on site depth and type. Actual dive profiles vary - always follow your dive computer and training.
Safety Notes
Wreck site - avoid penetration without wreck diving certification. Watch for sharp metal and entanglement hazards.
BAKLAN Wreck History
Year Sunk
1991
Vessel Type
fishing vessel
Cause
fire
Built in 1967 at the Chernomorskiy Shipyard in Nikolayev, Ukraine, the 'BAKLAN' was a robust fishing vessel serving the Bulgarian Ocean Fishing fleet. Its career came to an abrupt and fiery end on December 1, 1991, while operating in the Aegean. A severe fire broke out in the engine room, and despite efforts to control it, the vessel was lost and sank within the pristine waters that would later become the Alonissos Marine Park.
Resting in just 2 meters of water, the 'BAKLAN' has transformed from an industrial vessel into a vibrant artificial reef. Its shallow grave makes it an ideal site for divers of all levels, as well as snorkelers. The clear Greek waters and abundant sunlight illuminate the wreckage, which is now encrusted with marine growth and provides shelter for a variety of fish and invertebrates. The wreck offers a unique opportunity to witness the power of nature's reclamation within a protected marine sanctuary, making it a popular and fascinating site.
Nearest Dive Centres to BAKLAN
Dive shops near BAKLAN
Seals
Balco sub
Seals
Halkeas
Fantasea
WATER ACTIONS & TECHNICAL RESCUE
Reviews for BAKLAN
Conditions
Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for BAKLAN
BAKLAN Ocean Conditions
Monthly averages for BAKLAN, sourced from Open-Meteo marine data + Copernicus Marine (EU) - nearest station: Open-Meteo marine grid (38.09, 24.15) (15km away)
October Averages
Sea Temperature
23°C
73°F · Range: 21–25.6°C
Current Speed
1.41 cm/s
Direction: SW (225°)
Chlorophyll-a
0.13 mg/m³
Clear water
Salinity
34.63 PSU
Based on 4 years of monitoring data · Data sources: Open-Meteo marine data + Copernicus Marine (EU)
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