MINERVA (POSSIBLY) - Cabo de Palos

Alright, let's talk about the Minerva, or what we *think* is the Minerva, off Cabo de Palos. This wreck sits at 39 meters, right on the edge of the El Bajo reef system. It's an old cargo ship, maybe a steamer, and she's been down there long enough for the sea to really take hold. We love how the stern section is still pretty intact, you can make out the prop shaft and even glimpse into what was once the engine room, though it’s a tight squeeze now with all the growth. The big draw here is the atmosphere. Dropping down onto her bow, you often find yourself in a swarm of barracuda, their silver scales flashing in the ambient light filtering through the water. Our favourite part is navigating the cargo holds, now home to clouds of tiny glassfish, with the occasional moray eel peering out from a dark crevice. The current can be frisky, so save this one for days when you're feeling on point and comfortable with deeper diving. It’s a proper Mediterranean wreck dive, silty in places, and totally worth the effort for that feeling of exploring a lost piece of history.

Location

Cabo de Palos, Spain, Mediterranean & Europe

Coordinates

37.671055, -0.638667

Type

wreck

Maximum Depth

39m

Marine Protected Area: Reserva Marina de Cabo de Palos-Islas Hormigas