PAGANINI - Budva & Bar

Paganini is a proper piece of history down there, a passenger steamer from the late 20s. We dive a lot of wrecks, and this one has a real story, sunk in 1940 carrying troops, a tragic end for so many. The wreck sits upright at 37 metres, stern damage evident from the fire that took her down. You can spend a whole dive just circling the main deck, imagining the chaos. We love exploring the fore and aft sections; the holds are fairly open, giving you a glimpse into what was once a bustling ship. Visibility here can vary, but on a good day, the light plays beautifully through the superstructure, illuminating schools of small schooling fish. Keep an eye out for resident scorpionfish camouflaged on the deck plates – they’re masters of disguise. This wreck suits divers comfortable at depth who appreciate a dive with a poignant narrative. It’s less about vibrant corals and more about the sombre beauty of a well-preserved piece of maritime past. We’d suggest going in late morning; the sun angle really helps penetrate the deeper sections.

Location
Budva & Bar, Montenegro, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
41.345900, 19.371850
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
37m

Nearby Dive Sites in Budva & Bar

Nearest Dive Centres to PAGANINI

Marine Life in Budva & Bar

Home to 71 recorded species including 40 reef fish, 16 sharks & rays, 4 other, 3 seagrass & algae, 3 whales & dolphins, 2 octopus & squid.

Notable Species

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the maximum depth of the Paganini dive site and its shallowest point?
The Paganini dive site reaches a maximum depth of 37 meters. Information regarding its shallowest point is not available in our current data for this wreck dive.
What marine life and wreck features can divers expect to see when diving the Paganini?
Divers exploring the Paganini wreck can expect to see the impressive remains of a military vessel, built in 1928 and sunk on June 28, 1940. This substantial wreck measures 89.6 meters in length and 12.2 meters in width. Details on specific marine life encounters at this site are not currently available, but you can explore general marine life information in our wildlife database.
How difficult is the Paganini wreck dive, and is it suitable for all experience levels?
The Paganini wreck dive is classified as intermediate difficulty. This means it is not suitable for absolute beginners and generally requires divers to have some experience and potentially advanced training to safely explore its depths.
What is the best time of year to dive the Paganini wreck for optimal conditions and visibility?
Our current data does not specify the best time of year for optimal conditions and visibility at the Paganini wreck. For general guidance on seasonal diving, you might consult our when to dive section.
What scuba diving certifications are required or recommended for diving the Paganini wreck?
Given the Paganini wreck's intermediate difficulty and depth of 37 meters, an Advanced Open Water Diver certification or equivalent is typically recommended. This ensures divers have the necessary skills and experience for deeper wreck explorations. Always ensure your equipment is suitable for such dives.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility at the Paganini dive site?
Information regarding the typical current conditions and visibility at the Paganini dive site is not available in the provided data. Divers should always check local conditions with a dive operator before planning their dive.