KENT - Ustica

The KENT is a proper dive, a deep wreck for experienced hands off Ustica. This motor vessel went down in '78 after an engine room fire, and she now rests upright at 48 meters, her stern section pretty much intact. You can fin along the main deck, observing how the Mediterranean has started to reclaim the metal, with schools of barracuda often circling the superstructure. It's a sombre, quiet exploration, ideal for those who appreciate history and the slow creep of marine life over man-made structures.

Location
Ustica, Italy, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
38.159115, 12.778883
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
48m

Marine Protected Area: Fondali dello Zingaro

Best Time to Dive in Ustica

The warmest water temperatures in Ustica occur in January, averaging 15.5°C. The coolest conditions are in December at 15.5°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 15.5°C (air: 13.6°C)
  • February: 15.5°C (air: 13.5°C)
  • March: 15.5°C (air: 13.6°C)
  • April: 15.5°C (air: 15.0°C)
  • May: 15.5°C (air: 18.5°C)
  • June: 15.5°C (air: 22.7°C)
  • July: 15.5°C (air: 26.4°C)
  • August: 15.5°C (air: 27.0°C)
  • September: 15.5°C (air: 24.9°C)
  • October: 15.5°C (air: 21.6°C)
  • November: 15.5°C (air: 18.6°C)
  • December: 15.5°C (air: 15.3°C)

Nearby Dive Sites in Ustica

Nearest Dive Centres to KENT

Marine Life in Ustica

Home to 63 recorded species including 41 reef fish, 4 whales & dolphins, 3 other, 3 hard corals, 3 crabs & lobsters, 2 seagrass & algae.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for KENT

Based on average water temperature of 15.5°C.

  • Wetsuit (5-7mm) - recommended for 15°C water
  • Hood & Gloves (3-5mm) - helps retain warmth
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the maximum depth of the Kent Wreck dive site in Sicily?
The Kent Wreck, located off Ustica Island, Italy, reaches a maximum depth of 48 meters. This makes it a fascinating deep wreck dive for appropriately trained divers. The motor vessel, measuring 74.7m x 11m, offers an extensive exploration opportunity at this depth.
What marine life and historical cargo can divers expect to see at the Kent Wreck in Sicily?
The provided data for the Kent Wreck does not specify details regarding marine life or historical cargo that divers can expect to see. However, wreck dives often become artificial reefs, attracting various species over time. For general information on marine life, you can explore our wildlife database.
What is the recommended diver experience level and difficulty for diving the Kent Wreck in Sicily?
The Kent Wreck dive site, situated at a depth of 48 meters, is classified as having an intermediate difficulty level. This suggests that divers should possess advanced open water certification and experience with deep diving to safely explore this impressive 74.7m x 11m motor vessel. It is a non-dangerous wreck, sunk in 1978.
What is the best time of year to dive the Kent Wreck in Sicily for optimal conditions?
The provided data for the Kent Wreck does not specify the best time of year for optimal diving conditions. Typically, diving in the Mediterranean region, including Italy, is popular during the warmer months from late spring to early autumn. For general guidance on seasonal diving, please visit our When to Dive section.
What certifications are required or highly recommended for diving the Kent Wreck in Sicily?
Given the Kent Wreck's maximum depth of 48 meters and its classification as an intermediate difficulty dive, certifications such as Advanced Open Water Diver and Deep Diver specialty are highly recommended. These certifications ensure divers have the necessary training and experience for safe exploration of deep wreck sites like the Kent. The wreck is a motor vessel built in 1957.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like at the Kent Wreck dive site in Sicily?
The provided data for the Kent Wreck does not include specific information regarding typical current conditions or visibility at the dive site. Divers planning to explore this 48-meter deep wreck should consult with local dive operators in Ustica Island for up-to-date conditions before their dive. The vessel sank on July 8, 1978, after a fire in its engine room.