LOOTENSIA (OR MORTENSIA) - Cabo de Palos

The Mortensia, or Lootensia as some call her, is a wreck that just feels right for a relaxed dive in Cabo de Palos. Sitting shallow at just 16 metres, it’s a brilliant site for those looking to enjoy a long bottom time without pushing depth limits. We love its character; you can still make out the ribs and some of the hull structure of what was once a sailing vessel, tragically sunk in 1912. It’s not one of those intimidating, deep wrecks – this one feels inviting. What really makes the Mortensia special is the way the Mediterranean has reclaimed it. Schools of glinting barracuda often circle above the stern, and we’ve spent many minutes just watching them turn in unison. Look closer, and you’ll spot moray eels peeking from beneath plates of rusted metal, and the occasional octopus, camouflaged perfectly against the encrusted wreck. Our favourite part has to be exploring the scattered debris field around the main body, where nudibranchs graze on the sponges that have colonised every available surface. It’s a gentle dive, perfect for photographers or anyone wanting to simply soak in the atmosphere of a century-old wreck, alive with new life.

Location

Cabo de Palos, Spain, Mediterranean & Europe

Coordinates

37.580555, -0.979167

Type

wreck

Maximum Depth

16m

Marine Protected Area: Isla de las Palomas