ALECOS - Al Hoceima

Alecos is one of those Mediterranean wrecks we keep coming back to. A bulk carrier that went down in 1975, she’s split into a few sections, which makes for some interesting navigation. At only 10 metres, it’s a comfortable dive, giving you plenty of bottom time to really explore. We love finning through the gaping cargo holds, shafts of sunlight cutting through the gloom, illuminating the schools of glinting damselfish that swirl inside. The wreck itself is a riot of colour now, sponges and soft corals having completely taken over the metalwork. Look closely in the nooks and crannies and you’ll spot moray eels peering out, sometimes a curious octopus. It’s a proper historical dive, feeling like you’ve stumbled upon a sunken ghost ship. If you’re into wreck photography, the light here can be stunning, particularly mid-morning. It’s also a good one for newer wreck divers, giving a taste of penetration without anything too tight or complex.

Location
Al Hoceima, Morocco, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
36.022583, -5.709867
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
10m

Wreck History - ALECOS

Year Sunk
1975
Vessel Type
cargo ship
Cause
collision

The M/V ALECOS began its life in 1958, built by the renowned Sir John Laing & Sons shipyard in Sunderland, England. For nearly two decades, this bulk carrier plied the world's shipping lanes. Its final voyage began in September 1975, when it departed Melilla, a Spanish enclave in North Africa, with a course set for Szczecin, Poland. Fate intervened tragically off the coast of Al Hoceima, Morocco. In a rare and unfortunate event, the ALECOS struck a previously submerged, uncharted wreck, tearing a fatal gash in its hull. The ship foundered and sank on September 15, 1975, coming to rest on the seabed.

Today, the ALECOS is a fantastic wreck dive for all experience levels. Sitting upright at a depth of just 10 meters, the site is bathed in the clear, bright light of the Mediterranean. The shallow depth allows for extended, relaxed exploration of the ship's remains. Divers can swim over its cargo holds and deck structures, which are now completely encrusted with sponges and corals. The wreck acts as a magnet for marine life, attracting schools of damselfish, bream, and the occasional grouper hiding within its metallic skeleton, offering a perfect blend of maritime history and vibrant aquatic nature.

Marine Protected Area: Littoral de Jbel Moussa

Best Time to Dive in Al Hoceima

The warmest water temperatures in Al Hoceima occur in January, averaging 16.4°C. The coolest conditions are in December at 16.4°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 16.4°C (air: 13.6°C)
  • February: 16.4°C (air: 14.8°C)
  • March: 16.4°C (air: 15.7°C)
  • April: 16.4°C (air: 17.3°C)
  • May: 16.4°C (air: 19.9°C)
  • June: 16.4°C (air: 22.5°C)
  • July: 16.4°C (air: 25.8°C)
  • August: 16.4°C (air: 26.3°C)
  • September: 16.4°C (air: 23.9°C)
  • October: 16.4°C (air: 20.9°C)
  • November: 16.4°C (air: 17.6°C)
  • December: 16.4°C (air: 15.2°C)

Nearby Dive Sites in Al Hoceima

Nearest Dive Centres to ALECOS

Marine Life in Al Hoceima

Home to 143 recorded species including 96 reef fish, 11 octopus & squid, 10 sharks & rays, 9 whales & dolphins, 3 crabs & lobsters, 2 other.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for ALECOS

Based on average water temperature of 16.4°C.

  • Wetsuit (5-7mm) - recommended for 16°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 typical diving depth at the ALECOS dive site?
The typical diving depth at the ALECOS dive site is 10 meters. This relatively shallow depth makes it accessible for divers exploring the wreck.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at ALECOS?
Divers visiting ALECOS can expect to explore a significant underwater feature: a bulk carrier vessel. This impressive wreck, measuring 154.2m x 21.3m, sank on September 15, 1975, and offers a fascinating historical dive. While specific marine life isn't detailed in the provided information, wrecks typically attract a variety of local species over time.
How challenging is diving at ALECOS, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
Diving at the ALECOS dive site is classified as intermediate difficulty. Due to its nature as a dangerous wreck, it is not typically suitable for beginner divers. Divers should possess appropriate experience and training for wreck diving.
What is the best time of year to dive at ALECOS for optimal conditions or marine life sightings?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive at ALECOS for optimal conditions or marine life sightings. For general guidance on diving seasons in the region, you might consult our When to Dive section.
What scuba diving certifications are required or recommended for diving at ALECOS?
Given the ALECOS dive site's intermediate difficulty and classification as a dangerous wreck, divers should possess certifications beyond entry-level. An Advanced Open Water Diver certification, along with specialized wreck diving training, would be highly recommended. Always ensure you meet the local dive operator's specific requirements.
What are the usual current and visibility conditions like at the ALECOS dive site?
The available data does not provide specific details regarding the usual current and visibility conditions at the ALECOS dive site. It is always advisable to check local conditions with a dive operator before planning your dive.