ALBERONI - Dahlak Archipelago

Alberoni isn't a deep dive, sitting at a shallow 9 metres, but that just means more bottom time to really soak it in. This site is a dangerous wreck, though we think that adds to its charm. It’s an evocative dive, a ghostly silhouette against the blue. You’ll weave through the skeletal remains of the hull, observing the way the light plays on the rusty metal. We love the way the wreck has become a home, a thriving artificial reef where the structure itself tells a story. Look for the schools of cardinalfish darting in and out of the darker sections, and keep an eye out for larger pelagics cruising by in the deeper blue. It’s perfect for photographers seeking dramatic backdrops or anyone who enjoys the quiet contemplation of history beneath the waves. The visibility here is usually excellent, making for some truly striking visuals. We'd suggest going early in the morning, before any potential surface chop picks up, for the calmest conditions and best light.

Location
Dahlak Archipelago, Eritrea, Red Sea & Middle East
Coordinates
15.595233, 39.451900
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
9m

Wreck History - ALBERONI

Vessel Type
unknown
Cause
unknown

Resting in the warm, shallow waters of Eritrea's Dahlak Archipelago, the Alberoni is a mysterious wreck at a depth of only 9 meters. Its Italian name strongly suggests a link to Italy's colonial past or the intense naval activity of World War II, a period that left numerous vessels on the Red Sea floor. However, its true story remains untold. The wreck is classified as dangerous, indicating it is likely heavily deteriorated or presents significant overhead or entanglement risks. For well-prepared divers, this shallow site promises a dive rich in biodiversity. The Red Sea's famous vibrant corals have almost certainly enveloped the structure, creating a thriving artificial reef that attracts a kaleidoscope of tropical fish, making it a compelling, if puzzling, underwater adventure.

Best Time to Dive in Dahlak Archipelago

The warmest water temperatures in Dahlak Archipelago occur in January, averaging 27.7°C. The coolest conditions are in December at 27.7°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 27.7°C (air: 26.2°C)
  • February: 27.7°C (air: 26.3°C)
  • March: 27.7°C (air: 28.0°C)
  • April: 27.7°C (air: 30.1°C)
  • May: 27.7°C (air: 31.9°C)
  • June: 27.7°C (air: 33.4°C)
  • July: 27.7°C (air: 34.6°C)
  • August: 27.7°C (air: 33.9°C)
  • September: 27.7°C (air: 33.5°C)
  • October: 27.7°C (air: 32.1°C)
  • November: 27.7°C (air: 29.5°C)
  • December: 27.7°C (air: 27.5°C)

Nearby Dive Sites in Dahlak Archipelago

Marine Life in Dahlak Archipelago

Home to 83 recorded species including 59 reef fish, 6 seagrass & algae, 4 whales & dolphins, 4 sharks & rays, 3 sea snails & nudibranchs, 2 other.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for ALBERONI

Based on average water temperature of 27.7°C.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 28°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