PERLA DEL RIO - Costa Brava

Perla del Rio is an odd one, a peculiar sort of standout. We say peculiar because, at a maximum depth of one metre, it’s less a dive and more a snorkel, but it still delivers a compelling experience. This isn't a deep blue adventure, it’s a peek into history, perfect for those days when you want something different, or you're with non-diving friends. The wreck of the motor vessel sits right there, barely submerged, a skeletal outline just below the surface. We love how the light plays on it, distorting the metal, making it feel ancient despite its relatively recent classification as ‘dangerous’. You’ll spend your time peering down, sometimes reaching in, watching the small schools of damselfish flit through the ribs of the hull. It’s surprising how much life has colonised it, considering the depth. You’ll spot blennies tucked into crevices and anemones waving gently from the steel. Our favourite tip? Go early morning, just after sunrise. The water is calm, the light is soft, and you get the whole site to yourself before the day-trippers arrive. It’s a gentle, reflective experience, more about observation and atmosphere than penetration or big pelagics.

Location
Costa Brava, Spain, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
41.353554, 2.166333
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
1m

Marine Protected Area: Espacio marino del Baix Llobregat-Garraf

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 PERLA DEL RIO

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 PERLA DEL RIO

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