BENSU - Costa Brava

The Bensu, a sizeable steamship, ran aground in 1979 and now lies broken on a rocky slope in just 10 metres of water. We found it a fascinating site for its sheer accessibility; you can explore quite a bit of the wreckage, with sections of hull plates and machinery scattered across the seabed. It’s a great spot for newer divers, or anyone looking for a relaxed, longer dive, as the depth allows for extended bottom time. While it’s certainly not a coral reef, the wreck itself has become a home for various Mediterranean fish and invertebrates, giving it a lively feel amongst the metal.

Location
Costa Brava, Spain, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
41.840500, 3.123833
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
10m

Marine Protected Area: Castell-Cap Roig

Best Time to Dive in Costa Brava

The warmest water temperatures in Costa Brava occur in August, averaging 23.7°C. The coolest conditions are in January at 11.2°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 11.2°C
  • February: 11.4°C
  • March: 12.7°C
  • April: 14.5°C
  • May: 17.5°C
  • June: 21.5°C
  • July: 23.5°C
  • August: 23.7°C
  • September: 22.0°C
  • October: 19.3°C
  • November: 15.6°C
  • December: 12.8°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Costa Brava

Nearest Dive Centres to BENSU

Marine Life in Costa Brava

Home to 46 recorded species including 36 reef fish, 2 whales & dolphins, 2 sharks & rays, 1 worms, 1 seagrass & algae, 1 other.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for BENSU

Based on average water temperature of 17.1°C, currents 2 cm/s.

  • Wetsuit (5-7mm) - recommended for 17°C water
  • Hood & Gloves (3-5mm) - helps retain warmth
  • 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 BENSU?
The BENSU wreck offers a typical diving depth of 10 meters. This shallow depth provides excellent bottom times and makes it accessible for many divers exploring this fascinating dive site in Costa Brava.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can you expect to see at BENSU?
At BENSU, the primary underwater feature is the impressive steam ship vessel, measuring 94.8m x 13.1m, which sank in 1979. As a wreck, it typically attracts various marine life, though specific species are not detailed for this site. Divers can explore the structure of this significant vessel, which often serves as an artificial reef for local marine inhabitants.
How challenging is diving at BENSU for different experience levels?
Diving at BENSU is classified as an intermediate difficulty, making it suitable for divers with some experience. It is also classified as a Dangerous wreck, which suggests potential hazards and requires appropriate caution and training. Divers should be comfortable with wreck diving environments.
What is the best time of year to dive at BENSU for optimal conditions and marine encounters?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive at BENSU for optimal conditions or marine encounters. For general guidance on seasonal diving in the Spain region, please refer to our When to Dive section.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive at BENSU?
Given that BENSU is an intermediate difficulty dive site and classified as a Dangerous wreck, divers should possess a certification level commensurate with these conditions. While specific certification requirements are not detailed, an advanced open water certification or a wreck diving specialty is generally recommended for such sites to ensure safety and enjoyment.
What are the typical currents and underwater conditions like at BENSU?
The provided data does not include specific details regarding typical currents or general underwater conditions at the BENSU dive site. Divers should always consult local dive operators for the most current conditions, including visibility and water temperature, before planning their dive at this Costa Brava wreck.