NUEVO AMPURDANES - Costa Brava

The Nuevo Ampurdanes isn't just a wreck; it's a time capsule, a cargo ship that sank in 1943 after hitting a mine during WWII. Lying upright at 50 metres, it's a dive that demands respect for depth and conditions, definitely one for experienced deep divers. We love the way its superstructure still stands, offering plenty of swim-throughs into the cargo holds – just be mindful of silting. As you descend, the sheer scale of it emerges from the blue, a ghostly silhouette that slowly resolves into the details of davits and railings. Inside, we've found surprisingly intact sections, often home to conger eels peeking from pipes, their eyes reflecting torchlight. Schools of barracuda often circle the mast, their silvery forms glinting as they catch the ambient light filtering down. Our favourite part has to be the stern, where the prop is still visible, encrusted with colourful gorgonians. There's a real sense of history here, a quiet solemnity as you glide over its decks. Visibility can vary, but on a good day, the wreck stands out clearly against the deep blue, inviting exploration without feeling overwhelming. Just remember to keep an eye on your bottom time; 50 metres sneaks up on you quickly.

Location
Costa Brava, Spain, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
41.479168, 2.516667
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
50m

Marine Protected Area: Costes del Maresme

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 NUEVO AMPURDANES

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 NUEVO AMPURDANES

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