PETRAGEN ONE - Al Hoceima

The *Petragen One* offers something a bit different for Mediterranean wreck diving. This isn't some ancient galleon or a war relic, it's a colossal modern tanker, split in two, resting upright at 22 meters. We love the sheer scale of it, the bow and stern sections separated by about 20 meters, each an artificial reef in its own right. As you descend, the sheer bulk of the metal is impressive, and the explosion that sank it in '85 really ripped it apart, leaving twisted steel plates and gaping holes perfect for exploring. Our favourite part has to be the engine room penetration on the stern section. It’s dark in there, requiring a good torch, but the beams of light piercing through the vents create a ghostly, almost cathedral-like atmosphere. You'll find schools of glasseyes sheltering in the shadowed corridors, and moray eels are often peeking from behind the collapsed superstructure. The bow section, while less intricate inside, has become home to clouds of damselfish and small groups of barracuda cruise the deck. Visibility can vary, but we've had days where the sunlight streams right down to the deck, making the green hue of the water really pop against the rust. This is a dive for those who appreciate the industrial beauty of a modern wreck and enjoy a bit of safe overhead environment exploration.

Location
Al Hoceima, Morocco, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
36.177000, -5.396333
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
22m

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 PETRAGEN ONE

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 PETRAGEN ONE

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 at Petalo 1 Dive Site?
Information regarding the maximum depth at Petalo 1 Dive Site is not available in the provided data. However, if you are interested in the PETRAGEN ONE dive site, its maximum depth is 22 meters.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at Petalo 1 Dive Site?
Details on the marine life and underwater features at Petalo 1 Dive Site are not present in the given context. For the PETRAGEN ONE dive site, divers can explore a significant wreck - a tanker vessel measuring 183.5m x 25.9m, which broke in two and sank in 1985. While specific marine life isn't detailed, wrecks often attract diverse ecosystems.
Is Petalo 1 Dive Site suitable for all scuba diver levels, or are there specific challenges for beginners?
The suitability of Petalo 1 Dive Site for various diver levels is not specified in the provided information. For the PETRAGEN ONE dive site, it is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive, and also noted as a 'Dangerous wreck'. This suggests it is not suitable for beginners and requires appropriate experience and training.
When is the best time of year to dive at Petalo 1 Dive Site for optimal conditions and visibility?
Information regarding the best time of year to dive at Petalo 1 Dive Site for optimal conditions and visibility is not available in the provided data. We recommend checking our When to Dive section for general guidance on diving in the Morocco region.
What scuba diving certifications are typically required or recommended to dive at Petalo 1 Dive Site?
The specific certifications required or recommended for Petalo 1 Dive Site are not detailed in the given context. Given that the PETRAGEN ONE dive site is rated as intermediate difficulty and a 'Dangerous wreck', divers would typically need advanced certifications, possibly including wreck diving specialties, to safely explore such a site.
What are the typical currents and underwater conditions like at Petalo 1 Dive Site?
Details concerning typical currents and underwater conditions at Petalo 1 Dive Site are not provided in the available data. For any dive site, especially a wreck like PETRAGEN ONE, it's always advisable to consult local dive operators for the most current conditions before planning your dive.