SELENE ARA - Naples & Campania

The Selene ARA is one of our favourite deep wrecks in the Naples area, a proper penetration dive if you've got the training and the nerve. Sunk in '85 after a fire and explosion, this tanker now sits upright at 47 metres, and it's remarkably intact. We love the way the light filters through the superstructure, casting those deep blue shadows that are just so Mediterranean. The bow section is probably our pick for atmosphere, with the anchor chains still draped dramatically. Look for the big morays peeking out of every nook and cranny, and schools of barracuda often circle above the deck. It’s a serious dive, the depth means bottom time is limited, but for experienced wreck divers, it offers a real sense of history and adventure. We’d suggest going in late spring or early autumn for the best visibility, before the summer heat haze sets in.

Location
Naples & Campania, Italy, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
41.196140, 13.614765
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
47m

Marine Protected Area: Oasi blu di Monte Orlando

Nearby Dive Sites in Naples & Campania

Nearest Dive Centres to SELENE ARA

Marine Life in Naples & Campania

Home to 142 recorded species including 91 reef fish, 20 sharks & rays, 5 hard corals, 5 other, 4 crabs & lobsters, 4 whales & dolphins.

Notable Species

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical depth range for diving the Selene Ara shipwreck?
The Selene Ara shipwreck is located at a depth of 47 meters in the waters off Naples & Campania, Italy. This deep profile makes it a dive suitable for experienced divers comfortable with advanced diving techniques.
What kind of marine life and structural features can divers expect to explore on the Selene Ara wreck?
Divers exploring the Selene Ara can expect to encounter the impressive structural features of a large tanker vessel, measuring 78.6m in length and 13.4m in width. This non-dangerous wreck, which sank on August 6, 1985, after a fire and explosion, offers a fascinating glimpse into its past as a 1975-built ship. Specific marine life details are not provided in the current data.
How challenging is the Selene Ara wreck dive, and is it suitable for all experience levels?
The Selene Ara wreck dive is classified as intermediate difficulty, primarily due to its depth of 47 meters. This makes it unsuitable for beginner divers or those without advanced certifications and experience with deeper dives. Divers should be comfortable with deep diving techniques and potential overhead environments.
When is the best time of year to dive the Selene Ara wreck for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive the Selene Ara wreck for optimal conditions. For general guidance on seasonal diving in the Italy region, you might consult our when to dive resources.
What dive certifications are typically required to dive the Selene Ara wreck given its depth and nature?
Given the Selene Ara's depth of 47 meters and its classification as an intermediate wreck dive, divers typically need at least an Advanced Open Water certification. Furthermore, a Wreck Diver specialty certification is highly recommended to safely explore the site and understand the unique challenges of wreck diving.
What are the usual current conditions and visibility like at the Selene Ara dive site?
The provided data does not include specific details regarding the usual current conditions or visibility at the Selene Ara dive site. Divers planning to visit this Naples & Campania wreck should consult local dive operators for up-to-date information on these factors.