FRANCINA - Balearic Islands

Francina sits in such shallow water, it’s practically a pool dive, but don’t let that fool you. This isn’t a quick dip; it’s a proper wreck experience, all 87 metres of her, lying broken in just 6 metres of the Balearic Sea. We love that the sheer size of the ship means you can spend a solid hour just finning from bow to stern, taking in the scale without ever worrying about bottom time or decompression. What makes Francina a standout for us isn't just the history, though it's cool to think of her journey from Rotterdam to her final resting place off the Balearics. It’s the light. With the sun filtering down so brightly, the colours of the sponges and anemones that have colonised the hull are just brilliant. You’ll see schools of damselfish flitting through the superstructure, and octopuses often peek out from under plates of twisted metal. Our favourite part is navigating the broken stern section, where the prop shaft is still visible, encrusted with growth, and we always find something new tucked away amongst the wreckage. It’s an easy, relaxed exploration, perfect for photographers or anyone who just wants to wander a shipwreck at their own pace.

Location
Balearic Islands, Spain, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
40.053833, 3.879667
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
6m

Marine Protected Area: Cala d'Algairens

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 FRANCINA

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 FRANCINA

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 La Francesa reef?
The dive site, officially named FRANCINA, features a wreck located at a shallow depth of 6 meters. This consistent depth makes it an accessible dive for many certified divers. You can learn more about this site at FRANCINA.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at La Francesa dive site?
Divers at the FRANCINA dive site can expect to explore the impressive remains of a large motor vessel wreck. Sunk in 1974, this vessel measures 87.2m x 11.9m and is classified as a non-dangerous wreck, providing a fascinating underwater feature.
How challenging is the La Francesa dive site for different skill levels?
The FRANCINA dive site is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. This rating suggests it is suitable for certified divers who have some prior experience. For more details, visit the FRANCINA dive site page.
When is the best time of year or day to dive La Francesa for optimal conditions and marine life sightings?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year or day for optimal conditions or marine life sightings at the FRANCINA dive site. For general guidance on planning your dives, please refer to our When to Dive section.
What scuba diving certifications are required or recommended to dive at La Francesa?
Given its intermediate difficulty rating, divers should possess a certification level appropriate for such conditions. An Open Water Diver certification with some experience is generally recommended to safely enjoy the FRANCINA wreck.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like at La Francesa dive site?
The available data for the FRANCINA dive site does not include specific information regarding typical current conditions or visibility. We always recommend consulting local dive operators for the most up-to-date conditions before planning your dive at FRANCINA.