PAVLOS V (POSSIBLY) - Ustica

Ustica offers a lot, but for us, the Pavlos V is where it’s at. This isn't just a sunken ship; it’s a colossal piece of history, resting at a comfortable 30 metres. We love how the sheer scale of the tanker hits you. At 179 metres long, it’s an underwater city, colonised by everything from curious scorpionfish tucked into crevices to barracuda patrolling the deck. Dropping down, the bow looms first, then the vast midships stretch out into the blue. The fire that sank her in '78 left a dramatic, twisted landscape, especially around the engine room, which is our favourite area to poke around. You'll find crabs scuttling amongst the pipes, and often schools of damselfish flitting through the open hatches. We’d suggest a slow, methodical dive here to really appreciate the structure. The visibility in Ustica is usually excellent, making the Pavlos V a truly immersive experience, perfect for experienced wreck divers who appreciate a dramatic, historical site.

Location
Ustica, Italy, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
38.041000, 12.508333
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
30m

Marine Protected Area: Stagnone di Marsala e Saline di Trapani - area marina e terrestre

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 PAVLOS V (POSSIBLY)

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 PAVLOS V (POSSIBLY)

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 Pavlos V wreck dive site and what parts of the ship are accessible?
The Pavlos V wreck has a maximum depth of 30 meters. While specific accessible parts are not detailed, divers should be aware that it is classified as a Dangerous wreck. The vessel was a 179.5m x 24.4m tanker that experienced a fire in its engine-room before sinking on January 12, 1978.
What marine life and specific wreck features can divers expect to see when exploring the Pavlos V?
Divers exploring the Pavlos V can expect to see the impressive structure of this 179.5m x 24.4m tanker, which was built in 1951. The wreck's history includes a fire in its engine-room before it was abandoned by its crew and sank. Specific details about marine life are not available in the current data.
What is the difficulty level for diving the Pavlos V wreck, and is it suitable for Open Water Divers?
The Pavlos V wreck is classified with an intermediate difficulty level. Given its maximum depth of 30 meters, it is generally not suitable for standard Open Water Divers, whose certification typically limits them to 18 meters. Divers should possess appropriate training for deeper wreck dives.
What scuba diving certifications are required or recommended to dive the Pavlos V, especially for exploring its different sections?
To dive the Pavlos V, which reaches a depth of 30 meters, an Advanced Open Water Diver certification or equivalent is recommended. For exploring a Dangerous wreck of this size (179.5m x 24.4m), specialized wreck diving training would be highly advisable to safely navigate and appreciate its features.
What are the typical currents, visibility, and other underwater conditions at the Pavlos V dive site?
Information regarding typical currents, visibility, and other specific underwater conditions at the Pavlos V dive site is not provided in the current data context. Divers planning a trip to Ustica Island should consult local dive operators for the most up-to-date conditions.
When is the best time of year to dive the Pavlos V wreck for optimal conditions and to experience any special events like the Underwater Nativity Scene?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive the Pavlos V wreck for optimal conditions, nor does it mention any special events like an Underwater Nativity Scene. For general information on seasonal diving, please visit our When to Dive section.