ANGELA PANDO (FWD PART) - Canary Islands

The forward section of the *Angela Pando* is a proper wreck dive, sitting upright at 20 metres. We love how the bow points majestically towards the surface, a real sense of its former grandeur even broken in half. Dropping down, you’re straight onto the expansive deck, which is now home to schools of barracuda and amberjacks that cruise past. Inside, the holds are open, allowing for easy, shallow penetration – just enough to feel like you're exploring without getting too deep into trouble. Look for the swim-throughs around the superstructure too; they’re often filled with glassy sweepers, their eyes reflecting your torch beam. This half of the *Angela Pando* offers a solid hour of exploration for divers comfortable with a spacious wreck.

Location
Canary Islands, Spain, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
28.170834, -15.398334
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
20m

Wreck History - ANGELA PANDO (FWD PART)

Year Sunk
1986
Vessel Type
cargo ship
Cause
storm
Tonnage
29,997 GRT

The Angela Pando was a colossal Spanish bulk carrier, built in 1970 and measuring an impressive 29,997 gross register tons. For sixteen years, she reliably transported bulk cargo across the world's oceans, a testament to the Spanish shipbuilding industry of the time.

In July 1986, her career came to a dramatic end. While on passage from Buchanan, Liberia, to Gijon, Spain, the Angela Pando sailed into a severe storm off the Canary Islands. The immense power of the waves caused a catastrophic structural failure, and the massive vessel broke clean in two. Fortunately, the crew was rescued, but the ship was a total loss. The stern section sank into the deep abyss, while the forward part drifted before coming to rest in shallower waters, creating the dive site we know today.

Diving the forward section of the Angela Pando is an awe-inspiring experience. Resting at a comfortable 20 meters, the sheer scale of the wreck is the main attraction. Divers can explore the enormous bow, anchor chains where each link is the size of a person, and vast sections of the hull. The wreck has transformed into a spectacular artificial reef, teeming with the vibrant marine life of the Canary Islands. Schools of fish swarm the structure, while moray eels and groupers have taken up residence within its metal carcass, making it a must-do dive for visitors to the region.

Marine Protected Area: Área marina de La Isleta

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 ANGELA PANDO (FWD PART)

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 ANGELA PANDO (FWD PART)

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 range for diving the ANGELA PANDO (FWD PART) dive site?
The ANGELA PANDO (FWD PART) dive site has a typical depth of 20m. This makes it an accessible wreck dive for those with intermediate experience.
What marine life and specific wreck features can divers expect to see when exploring the ANGELA PANDO (FWD PART)?
Divers exploring the ANGELA PANDO (FWD PART) can expect to encounter the substantial remains of a bulk carrier vessel, built in 1970 and sunk on July 14, 1986. This impressive wreck measures 253.9m x 32.3m and includes features like an emergency shut-off valve to gasoil. While specific marine life is not detailed in the provided data, wrecks commonly serve as artificial reefs, attracting diverse marine life over time.
How challenging is the ANGELA PANDO (FWD PART) dive site, considering its deteriorated state and potential currents?
The ANGELA PANDO (FWD PART) dive site is classified as intermediate difficulty. Furthermore, it is designated as a "Dangerous wreck," indicating that divers should possess appropriate training and experience for safe exploration.
What is the best time of year or what are the ideal weather conditions to dive the ANGELA PANDO (FWD PART)?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year or ideal weather conditions for diving the ANGELA PANDO (FWD PART). We recommend consulting local dive operators for current conditions before planning your trip. For general guidance on optimal diving seasons, please visit our When to Dive section.
What diving certifications are recommended or required for safely diving the ANGELA PANDO (FWD PART)?
Given the ANGELA PANDO (FWD PART) is an intermediate difficulty dive and classified as a "Dangerous wreck," divers should possess at least an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent. Specialized wreck diving training is highly recommended to safely explore this site and its features.
What are the prevailing currents and general underwater conditions typically encountered at the ANGELA PANDO (FWD PART) dive site?
The provided data does not detail the prevailing currents or general underwater conditions typically encountered at the ANGELA PANDO (FWD PART) dive site. Divers are advised to consult with local dive centers in the Canary Islands for the most up-to-date information on site conditions.