MONTE STELLO - Sardinia

Monte Stello, a roll-on roll-off ferry, ran aground in the Maddalena Archipelago during a gale in 1994. It’s a proper ship, 126.5 metres long, but don’t expect a deep exploration. This wreck sits in just two metres of water, making it perfect for snorkelers or very shallow dives. We’d even suggest a long freedive session over a tank dive here. The ship’s bow rises out of the water, a stark reminder of its demise. What we love about Monte Stello is the sense of history mixed with new life. You can swim right over the deck, peering down into cargo holds now home to schools of damselfish. Sunlight filters through the clear water, illuminating the vibrant green algae coating the metalwork. We’ve spotted octopus tucked into crevices and moray eels peeking out from beneath twisted girders. It’s an easy, rewarding site for anyone wanting to experience a shipwreck without the depth or technical challenges. Visibility is usually excellent, especially in the mornings before the wind picks up, letting you take in the sheer scale of the vessel from above.

Location
Sardinia, Italy, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
41.282333, 9.399000
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
2m

Marine Protected Area: Arcipelago La Maddalena

Nearby Dive Sites in Sardinia

Nearest Dive Centres to MONTE STELLO

Marine Life in Sardinia

Home to 86 recorded species including 38 reef fish, 9 seagrass & algae, 8 whales & dolphins, 6 sharks & rays, 5 hard corals, 4 other.

Notable Species

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the typical diving depths at Monte Stello?
The Monte Stello wreck is located at a very shallow depth of just 2 meters. This makes it an interesting site for divers looking to explore a historical wreck in accessible waters. You can find more details about this unique dive site on its Monte Stello page.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at Monte Stello?
At Monte Stello, divers will primarily explore the impressive remains of a 126.5m x 20.4m roll on-roll off vessel that sank in 1994. This significant wreck provides a fascinating underwater feature, often becoming an artificial reef that attracts diverse marine life over time. For general information on marine species, you can visit our wildlife database.
How challenging is diving at Monte Stello, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
Diving at Monte Stello is classified as intermediate difficulty, making it generally unsuitable for beginner divers. Despite its shallow depth of 2 meters, the site is designated as a "Dangerous wreck," implying specific hazards or conditions that require more experience. Divers should be prepared for these challenges when exploring this unique site in Sardinia.
What is the best time of year to dive at Monte Stello for optimal conditions and marine encounters?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive at Monte Stello for optimal conditions or marine encounters. For general guidance on seasonal diving conditions in Italy, we recommend consulting our When to Dive resource or local dive centers in Sardinia.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive at Monte Stello?
While specific certification levels are not detailed in the provided data, Monte Stello is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. This suggests that divers should possess experience beyond entry-level certifications, particularly given its classification as a "Dangerous wreck." It's always best to consult with local dive operators in Sardinia regarding specific certification recommendations for this site.
What are the typical currents and water conditions like at the Monte Stello dive site?
The provided data does not include specific information on typical currents or water conditions at the Monte Stello dive site. While the vessel sank during a gale, this historical event does not reflect everyday diving conditions. Divers planning to visit this wreck site should inquire with local dive centers for current conditions.