wreck

Log This Dive

Mercedes I

The Mercedes I, she's a beauty if you like your wrecks with a bit of a story. This 190-foot freighter ran aground in 1984 during a storm, just off Molasses Reef. Now, she rests upright in about 25 feet of water, close enough to the surface that even snorkelers get a good view of her bow. We love diving her on a sunny day; the light filters through the structure beautifully, illuminating schools of grunts and snapper that have claimed the cargo holds. What makes Mercedes special isn't her intactness, but her accessibility and the way marine life has utterly taken over. You can swim through the main deck and peer into the engine room, often spotting a nurse shark tucked away or a massive goliath grouper lurking in the shadows. Look closely at the superstructure for colourful sponges and anemones. We'd suggest going early to avoid the crowds, especially if you want to take your time exploring her nooks and crannies. It’s a site that suits everyone, from new divers getting their first taste of a wreck to seasoned pros looking for an easy, relaxing dive with plenty to see.