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