ANTONIO C
Why dive here
With 74+ marine species recorded in the area - including sea turtles, spinner dolphins and pufferfish - ANTONIO C offers some of Dahlak Archipelago's richest wreck diving. Water ranges 27-33°C, warmest July, August, September.
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.
Typical ANTONIO C Dive Profile
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.
ANTONIO C Wreck History
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.
Reviews for ANTONIO C
Conditions
Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for ANTONIO C
ANTONIO C Ocean Conditions
Monthly averages for ANTONIO C, sourced from Open-Meteo marine data - nearest station: Open-Meteo marine grid (15.67, 40.12) (15km away)
October Averages
Sea Temperature
33°C
91°F · Range: 31–34.1°C
Air Temperature
32°C
90°F
Wind Speed
5.8 m/s
11.3 knots
Atmospheric Pressure
1009 hPa
Based on 4 years of monitoring data · Data sources: Open-Meteo marine data
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