MICHALIS - Al Hoceima

The Michalis wreck off Al Hoceima is a proper piece of history, and we love how accessible it is. Dropping down to just 11 metres, this 94-metre cargo ship, sunk back in '75, is practically begging for a long, relaxed dive. We've spent hours poking around her superstructure, which is still remarkably intact, and it feels like stepping back in time. The bow section is our favourite, where you can often spot large schools of juvenile barracuda shimmering over the deck plates. Further back, the engine room provides a fantastic swim-through, just big enough to feel adventurous without being restrictive, and always seems to have moray eels peeking from the shadows. The Michalis is brilliant for photographers, especially when the late afternoon sun catches the metalwork; the light play is just beautiful through the portholes. It's a chilled-out wreck dive, perfect for divers who want to explore without deep deco obligations, and the historical context only adds to the magic.

Location
Al Hoceima, Morocco, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
35.786835, -5.933533
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
11m

Marine Protected Area: Complexe du Bas Tahaddart

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 MICHALIS

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 MICHALIS

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

How deep is the SS Michalis Prois wreck dive site?
The Michalis wreck dive site is located at a depth of 11 meters. This relatively shallow depth makes it accessible for many divers, offering ample bottom time to explore the historic vessel.
What marine life and wreck features can divers expect to encounter at the Michalis wreck?
The Michalis wreck is a motor vessel, measuring 94.8m x 12.5m, that sank on December 8, 1975, after a machinery breakdown caused it to run aground. Divers can expect to explore the remains of this significant vessel, which still shows portions of its hull or superstructure. Information regarding specific marine life encounters at this site is not available in the provided data.
Is the Michalis wreck dive suitable for divers of all experience levels, including beginners?
The Michalis wreck dive is classified as intermediate difficulty. While its shallow depth of 11 meters is within beginner limits, the "intermediate" rating suggests it may present challenges or require skills beyond a basic open water certification, making it less suitable for absolute beginners without proper guidance or additional training.
What is the best time of year or conditions to dive the SS Michalis Prois for good visibility?
Information regarding the best time of year or specific conditions for good visibility at the Michalis wreck is not provided in the available data. For general guidance on optimal diving conditions, you might consult our When to Dive resource.
What diving certifications are needed to dive the Michalis wreck?
Given the Michalis wreck is an intermediate difficulty dive at 11 meters, a standard Open Water Diver certification would typically meet the depth requirement. However, the "intermediate" classification often implies that additional experience or an Advanced Open Water Diver certification, or even a Wreck Diver specialty, would be beneficial for a more comfortable and comprehensive exploration of the site.
Are there strong currents or specific conditions divers should be aware of at the Michalis dive site?
Details regarding strong currents or other specific environmental conditions at the Michalis dive site are not available in the provided information. It is always recommended to check local dive conditions with a reputable dive operator before planning your dive.