AMERICAN STAR - Canary Islands

The American Star wreck is a site we still talk about long after the dive. She’s not deep, just 4m, so it’s less of a dive and more of a snorkel, but don’t let that put you off. This old merchant vessel, broken in two, lies right on the beach at Playa de Garcey. We loved swimming around the bow section, seeing the huge anchor chains draped like necklaces across the sand, the steel plates now a rusty tapestry. What makes it special for us is the sheer size of her, even in pieces. The stern section, which used to be the more intact part, was battered beyond recognition by a storm in 2007, then finally disappeared under the waves in 2022. Now, it's just the bow, but it's still impressive. The shallow depth means sunlight penetrates everywhere, illuminating shoals of sardines that shimmer against the rust-coloured steel. You’ll spot the occasional curious grunt or a small octopus tucked into a crevice. It’s a fascinating place to spend an hour, imagining the ship’s past life. We’d suggest going at low tide for the clearest views of the scattered remains. It’s a unique experience, a giant skeleton slowly returning to the ocean, perfect for snorkelers or freedivers wanting a glimpse into maritime history without needing a tank.

Location
Canary Islands, Spain, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
28.346000, -14.180833
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
4m

Wreck History - AMERICAN STAR

Year Sunk
1994
Vessel Type
passenger ship
Cause
grounding

The SS American Star had a long and storied career that began long before she came to rest on the shores of Fuerteventura. Launched in 1940 as the magnificent SS America for the United States Lines, she was a pinnacle of American naval architecture. Her service was varied and patriotic; she served as the troop transport USS West Point during World War II, carrying soldiers across treacherous seas. After the war, she returned to passenger service, later sailing under different flags and names, including the popular SS Australis for a Greek-owned line, carrying countless passengers across the globe.

Her final chapter began in 1994. After years of service, the old liner was sold with the intention of being converted into a five-star hotel ship in Thailand. Renamed the American Star, she was taken under tow from Greece. However, during a severe Atlantic storm, the tow lines snapped, leaving the grand old ship at the mercy of the waves. On January 18, 1994, she ran hard aground at Playa de Garcey, her back broken by the relentless surf, creating one of the most photographed shipwrecks of the modern era.

For years, the American Star was a haunting landmark, slowly surrendering to the power of the ocean. Today, the wreck is no longer visible above the waves, having completely collapsed onto the seabed. Lying in just 4 meters of water, her scattered remains have become a vibrant artificial reef. While the proud structure is gone, divers and snorkelers can explore the debris field, which teems with the Canary Islands' diverse marine life, a final, living monument to a legendary ocean liner.

Marine Protected Area: Cueva de Lobos

Best Time to Dive in Canary Islands

The warmest water temperatures in Canary Islands occur in September, averaging 23.7°C. The coolest conditions are in March at 19.3°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 20.1°C
  • February: 19.5°C
  • March: 19.3°C
  • April: 19.8°C
  • May: 20.6°C
  • June: 21.8°C
  • July: 22.6°C
  • August: 23.1°C
  • September: 23.7°C
  • October: 23.5°C
  • November: 22.4°C
  • December: 21.3°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Canary Islands

Nearest Dive Centres to AMERICAN STAR

Marine Life in Canary Islands

Home to 80 recorded species including 50 reef fish, 9 whales & dolphins, 8 sharks & rays, 2 octopus & squid, 2 crabs & lobsters, 2 worms.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for AMERICAN STAR

Based on average water temperature of 21.5°C, currents 7 cm/s.

  • Wetsuit (3-5mm) - comfortable for 21°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 for diving the American Star wreck in Fuerteventura?
The typical depth for diving the American Star wreck is quite shallow, at just 4 meters. This makes it an accessible dive for many, allowing for extended bottom times to explore this historic vessel. Its classification as a wreck showing a portion of its hull or superstructure is clearly visible at this depth.
What kind of marine life and wreck remnants can divers expect to see at the American Star dive site?
Divers visiting the American Star can expect to explore the impressive remnants of a massive merchant vessel, originally built in 1940 and sunk in 1994. The site is classified as a wreck showing a portion of its hull or superstructure, offering a glimpse into its substantial dimensions of 220.1m x 28.3m. While specific marine life is not detailed in the provided data, wreck sites typically become artificial reefs, attracting various local fish and invertebrates over time.
How challenging is diving the American Star wreck, considering its current deteriorated state?
Diving the American Star wreck is considered to be of intermediate difficulty. Despite its deteriorated state, its shallow depth of 4 meters contributes to this rating, making it manageable for divers with appropriate experience. It's a fascinating wreck dive suitable for those comfortable with exploring submerged structures.
When is the best time of year to dive the American Star for optimal conditions and visibility?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year for optimal conditions and visibility at the American Star dive site. For general guidance on diving in the Canary Islands, we recommend consulting our When to Dive section for seasonal insights. Local dive operators can also provide the most current information regarding conditions.
What scuba diving certifications are recommended or required to dive the American Star wreck?
Given that diving the American Star wreck is rated as intermediate difficulty, divers should possess at least an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent. A wreck diving specialty certification would also be highly beneficial to safely navigate and appreciate this historic site. Always ensure you dive within your training and experience limits.
What are the typical current and sea conditions like at the American Star dive site off Fuerteventura?
The provided data does not include specific information regarding the typical current and sea conditions at the American Star dive site off Fuerteventura. Divers planning a trip to this Canary Islands wreck should consult local dive operators for up-to-date conditions before their dive. This will ensure a safe and enjoyable experience at the site.