YVETTE - Al Hoceima

Okay, let's talk about Yvette. Forget your typical deep-water wreck dive; this one's different. We’re talking about a wreck that’s literally at the surface, which makes it incredibly accessible – a fantastic spot for snorkelers, freedivers, and even just a shallow SCUBA exploration when the sea is calm. The Yvette, a 66-meter motor vessel, ran aground in 1973 after her hold flooded, then broke up in a heavy swell. What you'll find today are the scattered remains of a respectable ship, all sitting in about a meter of water. It’s an amazing feeling to swim right over the superstructure, seeing light shafts play through the gaps in the hull. Our favourite detail is how the metal has been colonised; you get these vibrant green algae and small anemones clinging on, with schools of juvenile damselfish flitting in and out of the rusted plating. It’s a shallow, bright, and surprisingly intricate dive site, perfect for spending an hour just exploring the history and the unexpected life that thrives there.

Location
Al Hoceima, Morocco, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
36.077500, -5.421945
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
1m

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 YVETTE

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 YVETTE

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 depth range for diving at YVETTE?
The YVETTE dive site is exceptionally shallow, with a typical depth of just 1 meter. This makes it accessible for divers looking for a very shallow wreck experience.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at YVETTE?
Divers at YVETTE can expect to explore the remains of a motor vessel wreck, measuring 66.6m x 9.6m, which sank on September 30, 1973. The site is classified as a wreck showing any portion of its hull or superstructure, offering an interesting underwater feature to discover. While specific marine life isn't detailed, wrecks often attract various species over time, which you can learn more about in our wildlife database.
How challenging is the YVETTE dive site for different skill levels?
The YVETTE dive site is classified as having an intermediate difficulty level. While its shallow depth of 1 meter might suggest ease, the wreck environment itself, or potential conditions not specified, contribute to this rating. Divers should ensure they have the appropriate training and experience for intermediate wreck diving.
What is the best time of year or season to dive at YVETTE for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year or season to dive at YVETTE for optimal conditions. For general guidance on planning your dive trip to Al Hoceima, you might consult general information on when to dive in the region.
What scuba diving certifications are required or recommended to dive at YVETTE?
Given that YVETTE is an intermediate difficulty dive site, it is recommended that divers hold at least an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent. Experience with wreck diving or specialized wreck diver training would also be highly beneficial for safely exploring this Moroccan wreck.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like at the YVETTE dive site?
The provided data does not include specific information regarding the typical current conditions or visibility at the YVETTE dive site. While the wreck broke up due to heavy swell during its sinking, this doesn't directly indicate typical diving conditions. Divers should consult local dive operators in Al Hoceima for up-to-date reports on currents and visibility.