MELANIA - Portofino & Liguria

The Melania, a motor vessel that went down in 1970, lies shallow at just 6 meters. We love this wreck for its accessibility, making it a fantastic second dive or even a snorkel if the conditions are calm. You’ll find her broken up, but the bow and stern sections are still distinct. We always spend time finning slowly along the hull, watching small schools of damselfish flit in and out of the gaps where the plating has corroded. Look closely, and you’ll spot nudibranchs clinging to the rusty metal, their vibrant colours a stark contrast to the muted tones of the wreck. It’s a gentle exploration, perfect for photographers wanting to capture the light playing on the structure or newer divers getting their first taste of a wreck dive without any depth pressure. Our top tip: go early or late in the day to avoid the worst of the boat traffic, which can stir up the sediment a bit. While there aren't massive pelagics here, the sense of history and the small, resilient life adapting to this artificial reef make it genuinely special.

Location
Portofino & Liguria, Italy, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
43.329630, 10.427934
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
6m

Marine Protected Area: Calafuria - Area terrestre e marina

Nearby Dive Sites in Portofino & Liguria

Nearest Dive Centres to MELANIA

Marine Life in Portofino & Liguria

Home to 73 recorded species including 37 reef fish, 9 sharks & rays, 8 whales & dolphins, 4 sea snails & nudibranchs, 3 hard corals, 3 crabs & lobsters.

Notable Species

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the maximum depth of the Melania wreck dive site?
The Melania wreck dive site reaches a maximum depth of 6 meters. This shallow depth makes it an interesting site for divers looking for a relatively accessible wreck experience.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at the Melania wreck?
Divers visiting the Melania wreck can expect to explore the remains of a motor vessel, measuring 53.3m x 8.5m, which sank on February 9, 1970. While specific marine life is not detailed in our current data, wrecks often become artificial reefs attracting various species over time. For general information on marine life, you can visit our wildlife database.
How difficult is the Melania wreck dive, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
The Melania wreck dive is classified as intermediate difficulty. Due to its classification as a "Dangerous wreck" and the inherent challenges of wreck diving, it is generally not recommended for beginner divers. Divers should possess appropriate experience and training for intermediate-level wreck dives.
When is the best time of year to dive the Melania wreck for optimal conditions?
Our current data for the Melania wreck does not specify the best time of year for optimal diving conditions. We recommend checking local dive centers or our general When to Dive guide for typical seasonal conditions in the Portofino & Liguria region of Italy.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive the Melania wreck?
Given the Melania wreck is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive, divers should possess at least an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent. For wreck penetration or more challenging aspects of the dive, a Wreck Diver specialty certification is highly recommended to ensure safety and proper technique.
Are there strong currents or challenging water conditions typically found at the Melania dive site?
Our provided data for the Melania wreck does not specify typical current strengths or challenging water conditions. As with any dive, it's always advisable to consult with local dive operators for real-time conditions and forecasts before planning your dive.