ALBATROS - Balearic Islands

The Albatros, now that's a wreck with a story, even if it’s a bit of a tragedy. This old steamship, 89 metres long, ran aground in '69. You find it sitting upright at a comfortable 10 metres, which makes it perfect for a long, relaxed dive. We love that you can spend ages just cruising over the deck, peeking into what's left of the superstructure. What really gets us about the Albatros is the light. Even on an overcast day, the sun finds its way through the water, illuminating patches of the hull. You'll often see schools of sea bream drifting through the shadows, and we've spotted some impressively sized moray eels tucked away in the darker corners of the engine room. It’s not a site for big pelagics, but the sheer scale of the wreck, so shallow, means you feel like you’re exploring history rather than just observing it. Our favourite part? The bow, where the chain still stretches out, slowly being claimed by the Mediterranean. It’s a gentle dive, suited for anyone who loves wrecks without the pressure of deep water or strong currents.

Location
Balearic Islands, Spain, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
39.750000, 3.433333
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
10m

Wreck History - ALBATROS

Year Sunk
1969
Vessel Type
cargo ship
Cause
grounding

Built in Norway in 1950, the SS Albatros served as a reliable steamship for nearly two decades. In the autumn of 1969, under the ownership of Garibship Nav Ltd., she embarked on what would be her final voyage, a passage from the bustling port of Barcelona, destined for Constantza on the Black Sea.

On October 25, 1969, her journey was cut short in the waters of the Balearic Islands. The vessel ran hard aground on a rocky seabed, sustaining fatal damage that sent her to the bottom. Today, the Albatros rests in a mere 10 meters of water, making it a spectacular and accessible wreck dive. Its shallow depth allows for long bottom times and bathes the wreckage in natural light, revealing a structure that has become a thriving artificial reef, teeming with Mediterranean marine life. It's a perfect site for novice wreck divers and underwater photographers alike.

Marine Protected Area: Reserva Marina de Levante de Mallorca-Cala Ratjada

Best Time to Dive in Balearic Islands

The warmest water temperatures in Balearic Islands occur in August, averaging 27.4°C. The coolest conditions are in February at 14.8°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 15.3°C
  • February: 14.8°C
  • March: 15.2°C
  • April: 16.4°C
  • May: 19.3°C
  • June: 22.5°C
  • July: 26.2°C
  • August: 27.4°C
  • September: 25.9°C
  • October: 23.4°C
  • November: 19.6°C
  • December: 16.5°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Balearic Islands

Nearest Dive Centres to ALBATROS

Marine Life in Balearic Islands

Home to 150 recorded species including 110 reef fish, 11 octopus & squid, 11 sharks & rays, 5 whales & dolphins, 4 crabs & lobsters, 3 other.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for ALBATROS

Based on average water temperature of 20.2°C, currents 12 cm/s.

  • Wetsuit (3-5mm) - comfortable for 20°C water
  • 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 the Albatros dive site?
The Albatros dive site is typically found at a depth of 10 meters. This makes it a relatively shallow wreck dive, accessible to a range of divers. It offers a great opportunity to explore a historical vessel without extreme depth challenges.
What kind of marine life and underwater topography can divers expect to see at the Albatros dive site?
Divers at the Albatros dive site can expect to explore a significant steam ship wreck, measuring 89.3m x 13.1m, which ran aground on a rocky bottom at the foot of a high cliff. While specific marine life details are not provided, wrecks like the Albatros often become vibrant artificial reefs, attracting various species. You can learn more about common marine life in the region in our wildlife database.
How challenging is the Albatros dive site, and is it suitable for less experienced divers?
The Albatros dive site is classified as intermediate difficulty. While not suitable for absolute beginners, divers with some experience and appropriate training should find it manageable. It offers a rewarding experience for those ready to explore a substantial wreck.
What is the best time of year to dive at the Albatros site for optimal conditions and marine encounters?
Specific data regarding the best time of year for optimal conditions and marine encounters at the Albatros dive site is not provided in our current records. For general guidance on seasonal diving in the Balearic Islands, please consult our When to Dive section. Local dive operators can also offer up-to-date seasonal insights.
Are there any specific diving certifications or experience levels required to dive at the Albatros dive site?
Given its intermediate difficulty rating, divers exploring the Albatros dive site should possess at least an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent experience. This ensures divers have the necessary skills and comfort level for wreck diving at 10 meters. Always dive within your training and comfort limits.
What are the usual currents and visibility conditions like at the Albatros dive site?
Our current data for the Albatros dive site does not specify the usual currents or visibility conditions. It is always recommended to check local dive reports and consult with dive operators in the Balearic Islands immediately prior to your dive for the most up-to-date information. Conditions can vary, so local knowledge is key.