ANTONIO C - Dahlak Archipelago

The Antonio C is a proper time capsule, a casualty of World War II, resting upright and surprisingly intact at 17 metres. We love how the historical significance hits you immediately; this isn't just metal on the seabed, it’s a story. We’ve finned through her holds, imagining the cargo, and peered into the bridge where ghost commands still seem to linger. What makes this wreck special isn't just the history, though. It’s the way the Red Sea has reclaimed her. Schools of snapper often hold position in the open holds, unbothered by divers, and we’ve seen barracuda circling the mast structure, looking very much at home. The coral growth isn't overwhelming, but it’s enough to add colour and texture to the rusted steel. Our favourite spot is usually around the stern, where light filters in beautifully, illuminating the structural integrity. It's an easy dive, perfect for anyone who appreciates a bit of history with their reef life, especially those who prefer a shallower wreck with plenty to explore without deep penetration.

Location
Dahlak Archipelago, Eritrea, Red Sea & Middle East
Coordinates
15.593056, 39.489723
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
17m

Wreck History - ANTONIO C

Vessel Type
cargo ship
Cause
unknown

Resting in the shallow, turquoise waters of Eritrea's Dahlak Archipelago, the 'Antonio C' is an enigmatic wreck shrouded in mystery. Little is known about the vessel's history or the specific circumstances of its sinking, but its official classification as a 'dangerous wreck' suggests it poses a navigational hazard, either due to its position or structural instability. At a depth of just 17 meters, the site is accessible to most certified divers and offers a fascinating structure for marine life, with hard and soft corals colonizing its decaying frame. Exploring the 'Antonio C' offers a glimpse into the rich maritime tapestry of the Red Sea, where trade, conflict, and nature have all left their mark beneath the waves.

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 ANTONIO C

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