wreck

Log This Dive

VERCELLI

The Vercelli, near Tabarka, is one of our favourite Mediterranean wrecks. She was a steamer, sunk in 1943, and lies at a very manageable 15 metres. We love how accessible she is; it’s a brilliant site for newer wreck divers, but still interesting enough for those who’ve spent a lot of time poking around sunken ships. Her sheer size is impressive, a full 100 metres long, and you can swim alongside the hull, feeling the cool shadow it casts. Look into the cargo holds; we've seen schools of juvenile barracuda shimmering there, catching the light from above. The superstructure is a jumble, home to moray eels peering out from gaps and octopus tucked away in crevices. Sometimes, if you hit it right with the thermocline, you get these incredible light rays cutting through the water and illuminating the bow. It’s not a vibrant coral garden, but the sense of history is palpable, and the marine life that has claimed her is fascinating to observe. We'd suggest going in late morning; the light penetration is usually best then.