wreck

Log This Dive

Austral

Alright, let's talk about the *Austral*, just off Mar del Plata. It’s a shallow wreck, only down at four metres, making it an absolute treat for a relaxed second dive or when you just want to extend your bottom time without the decompression stress. We love it because it’s a proper sailing vessel, not some modern hulking metal box. You get a real sense of history here, the timbers still holding their shape, barnacle-encrusted and slowly giving way to the sea. What you'll experience is a slow, easy exploration. The bow points out, often with a gentle current running past it, and we've spent many an hour just finning around the mast structure and what's left of the deck. Despite its shallowness, it’s home to more than you’d expect. Look closely among the nooks and crannies for small blennies peeking out, and we’ve often seen schools of silversides shimmering above the deck, almost like a living cloud. Our favourite time to dive the *Austral* is on a calm, sunny morning; the light filtering through the water onto the wreck is just something else. It really highlights the textures of the wood and the resident marine life. It suits anyone looking for an unhurried dive, whether you're a newer diver getting comfortable with wrecks or an experienced one who appreciates the charm of a historical site without the depth. Just be mindful of fishing lines; it’s a popular spot.