18m
    Sea of Cortez, Mexico
    Parque Nacional Cabo Pulmo

    COLIMA

    Best months: May–Dec

    Protected Area

    Parque Nacional Cabo Pulmo

    Why dive here

    With 195+ marine species recorded in the area - including blue whales, dolphins, humpback whales, nurse sharks and orcas - COLIMA offers some of Sea of Cortez's richest wreck diving. Water ranges 21-30°C, warmest August, September, October.

    Marine lifeBlue Whales, Dolphins, Humpback Whales, Nurse Sharks and Orcas · 195+ species recorded
    Water21-30°C · warmest August, September, October
    CharacterWreck dive · max 18m
    StandoutExceptional marine biodiversity

    The *Colima* wreck, a historic motor vessel, lies upright in just 18 metres of water, making it a fantastic dive for a wide range of certifications. We love how accessible it is, and honestly, the story behind its sinking in 1939 – a storm on its way to Cabo to deliver supplies – adds a real layer of atmosphere. You can poke around the bow and stern, peer into the holds, and even get a sense of the old engine room, though penetration is definitely for experienced wreck divers only. What really stands out here is the marine life that's made this old ship home. Schools of grunts and snappers hang thick over the decks, shimmering in the shafts of sunlight. Look closely in the nooks and crannies for moray eels peering out, and we've seen some impressive octopus here too, masters of camouflage against the rusted hull. Our favourite spot is usually around the stern, where the prop is still visible and often hosts a particularly colourful collection of damselfish. Visibility can be decent, though sometimes a surge can kick up the silt, so we’d suggest timing your dive for calm mornings if you can. It’s a great site for photographers who appreciate the drama of a good wreck with plenty of fish life.

    Typical COLIMA Dive Profile

    10m20mSafety Stop0m18m max~50 min estimated bottom time

    Illustrative profile based on site depth and type. Actual dive profiles vary - always follow your dive computer and training.

    Safety Notes

    Wreck site - avoid penetration without wreck diving certification. Watch for sharp metal and entanglement hazards.

    Always perform a 3-minute safety stop at 5m before surfacing.

    Today05:5818:4512h 48m daylightGolden hour 18:15

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    Conditions

    Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for COLIMA

    COLIMA Ocean Conditions

    Monthly averages for COLIMA, sourced from Copernicus Marine satellite data

    August Averages

    Sea Temperature

    30.15°C

    86°F

    Current Speed

    10.82 cm/s

    Direction: SE (146.3°)

    Chlorophyll-a

    0.118 mg/m³

    Clear water

    Salinity

    35.26 PSU

    Data sources: Copernicus Marine Service (EU)

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