COLIMA - Sea of Cortez

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.

Location
Sea of Cortez, Mexico, North America
Coordinates
23.476667, -109.427500
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
18m

Marine Protected Area: Parque Nacional Cabo Pulmo

Best Time to Dive in Sea of Cortez

The warmest water temperatures in Sea of Cortez occur in September, averaging 30.4°C. The coolest conditions are in February at 21.1°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 22.2°C
  • February: 21.1°C
  • March: 21.5°C
  • April: 22.6°C
  • May: 24.8°C
  • June: 27.1°C
  • July: 29.1°C
  • August: 30.1°C
  • September: 30.4°C
  • October: 29.8°C
  • November: 27.6°C
  • December: 25.1°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Sea of Cortez

Nearest Dive Centres to COLIMA

Marine Life in Sea of Cortez

Home to 197 recorded species including 172 reef fish, 14 whales & dolphins, 5 sharks & rays, 3 other, 1 sea cucumbers, 1 seagrass & algae.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for COLIMA

Based on average water temperature of 26.0°C, currents 9 cm/s.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 26°C water needs minimal exposure protection
  • 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