MARIA III - Balearic Islands

The *Maria III* isn’t just a wreck; it’s a time capsule resting in the shallows, perfect for when you want a relaxed dive with a bit of history. We love that at only 8 metres, you get incredible bottom time, really letting you soak in the details of this old motor vessel. She went down in ‘79, after an engine room explosion on a run from Valencia to Ravenna, and you can still see where the stern opened up, a testament to the force of that blast. What we really enjoy is how accessible she is. You can easily swim the length of her 70-metre deck, peering into cargo holds now colonised by schools of glinting damselfish. Around the bow, you’ll often spot barracuda hanging motionless, and we've had some great encounters with octopus tucked into crevices near the bridge. Visibility here is usually pretty kind, letting the sunlight filter through to illuminate the coral growth starting to pepper the metalwork. It’s a superb spot for newer wreck divers or anyone who just wants a peaceful exploration without the pressure of depth or strong currents.

Location
Balearic Islands, Spain, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
39.037600, 1.612550
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
8m

Marine Protected Area: Àrea marina de Tagomago

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 MARIA III

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 MARIA III

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 MARIA III dive site?
The MARIA III dive site is located at a depth of 8m. This shallow depth makes it an accessible wreck dive for many experience levels.
What kind of marine life and underwater topography can divers expect to encounter at MARIA III?
The MARIA III is a captivating wreck dive, a motor vessel with dimensions of 70.1m x 10.7m that sank in 1979. While specific marine life is not detailed in our current data, wrecks typically serve as artificial reefs, attracting a variety of marine life. Divers can expect to explore the structure of this historical vessel.
What is the difficulty level of the MARIA III dive site, and is it suitable for beginner or advanced divers?
The MARIA III dive site is rated as intermediate difficulty. This classification suggests it is best suited for divers who have some experience beyond their initial certification, offering a rewarding experience without requiring advanced technical skills.
What is the best time of year to dive at MARIA III for optimal visibility and conditions?
Our current data for the MARIA III dive site does not specify the best time of year for optimal visibility or conditions. For general guidance on diving in the Balearic Islands, we recommend checking our comprehensive When to Dive resource for regional insights.
Are there any specific scuba diving certifications required to dive at MARIA III?
While no specific certifications are explicitly stated for the MARIA III, its intermediate difficulty rating implies that divers should have at least an Open Water Diver certification and some prior experience. It's always advisable to consult with local dive centers in the Balearic Islands for their specific requirements and recommendations.
What are the prevailing currents and general water conditions at the MARIA III dive site?
Our current data for the MARIA III dive site does not provide specific details on prevailing currents or general water conditions. For the most current information, we highly recommend contacting local dive centers in the Balearic Islands before planning your dive.