GNEISENAU - Al Hoceima

The Gneisenau, a German training corvette sunk by a storm in 1900, is a proper chunk of history resting at 21 metres in Al Hoceima. We love this wreck for its sheer size and the way it’s been swallowed by the Med. At 73 metres long, it's not one of those blink-and-you-miss-it sites. Dropping down, the first thing you notice is the way the light filters through the ancient rigging – or what’s left of it – giving the whole scene a ghostly, atmospheric feel. The stern is our favourite part; it’s largely intact and you can still make out the lines of the old decks. Big groupers lurk in the shadows, unbothered by divers, and we’ve often seen schools of barracuda circling the mast sections. It’s an easy dive, straightforward navigation, but still feels like a genuine exploration. Visibility can be excellent here, sometimes pushing 25 metres, especially later in the morning after any morning thermoclines have settled. We’d suggest focusing on the superstructure first, then working your way along the port side, where the growth is particularly lush. It’s a great wreck for photographers keen on capturing that classic historical feel, and for anyone who appreciates a wreck with a story.

Location
Al Hoceima, Morocco, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
36.705555, -4.409722
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
21m

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 GNEISENAU

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 GNEISENAU

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 maximum depth of the GNEISENAU dive site?
The GNEISENAU dive site reaches a maximum depth of 21 meters. This intermediate-difficulty wreck offers a fascinating exploration opportunity for divers. You can find more details about this site on its dedicated page: GNEISENAU.
What kind of marine life and historical artifacts can divers expect to see on the GNEISENAU wreck?
The GNEISENAU is a historic German Navy training corvette, built in 1879 and sunk in 1900 during bad weather. While specific marine life details are not provided in the context, divers can expect to explore the structure of this three-masted topsail schooner with auxiliary engines. For general information on marine species, visit our wildlife database.
How difficult is diving the GNEISENAU, and is it suitable for beginner wreck divers?
Diving the GNEISENAU is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. Due to its classification as a "Dangerous wreck" and intermediate rating, it is generally not recommended for beginner wreck divers. Divers should have appropriate experience and certifications for this type of dive.
What is the best time of year to dive the GNEISENAU for optimal visibility and conditions?
The provided information does not specify the best time of year to dive the GNEISENAU for optimal visibility and conditions. We recommend consulting our When to Dive section for general guidance on seasonal diving conditions in the Morocco region.
What diving certifications are required to dive the GNEISENAU wreck?
While specific certification requirements are not detailed in the provided context, the GNEISENAU is an intermediate difficulty dive and classified as a "Dangerous wreck." Divers should possess appropriate advanced certifications, such as an Advanced Open Water Diver and Wreck Diver specialty, or equivalent experience to safely explore this site.
What are the typical currents and water conditions experienced at the GNEISENAU dive site?
The provided data does not contain specific information regarding the typical currents or water conditions experienced at the GNEISENAU dive site. Divers planning to visit this wreck should consult local dive operators for the most current conditions.