Barcaza LM - 1 Carelli - Mar del Plata

The Barcaza LM - 1 Carelli is one of Mar del Plata’s real characters. We love it because it’s shallow, accessible, and full of atmosphere. This old barge, designated a “dangerous wreck” in official terms, rests in just 5 metres of water, usually close enough to the surface to catch the sun filtering through the swells. It’s perfect for a long, relaxed dive or even a snorkel if the conditions are calm enough. The wreck itself is pretty broken up, but that’s part of its charm. You can swim around the scattered metal plates and the skeletal ribs of the hull, spotting the nooks and crannies where life has moved in. Schools of small fish, often anchovies or silversides, shimmer around the structure, and we often find crabs scuttling amongst the debris. Keep an eye out for the occasional octopus tucked away – our favourite find here. The visibility can be a bit variable, especially after strong winds, but on a good day, with a bit of sunlight, the Barcaza offers a unique dive, less about grand vistas and more about intimate exploration. It’s a great spot to practice buoyancy or just enjoy a very chill dive with a bit of history thrown in.

Location
Mar del Plata, Argentina, South America
Coordinates
-34.245990, -58.733940
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
5m

Wreck History - Barcaza LM - 1 Carelli

Vessel Type
barge
Cause
unknown

The Barcaza LM - 1 Carelli adds a touch of mystery to the shallow waters of Mar del Plata. Resting at just 5 meters, its name suggests a connection to a private owner or company, but its story and the reason for its sinking have been lost to time. Its official designation as a 'Dangerous Wreck' is due to its shallow depth, which makes it a hazard for unsuspecting boaters, but an incredibly accessible site for divers.

Exploring the Carelli is a fantastic experience for all skill levels. The sunlight illuminates the entire structure, which has transformed into a bustling micro-ecosystem. Divers can spend their time searching for hidden sea life amongst the metal plates and beams, from colorful nudibranchs to reclusive octopuses. It's a perfect second dive of the day or a great spot for underwater photographers to practice their craft in a calm, well-lit environment.

Best Time to Dive in Mar del Plata

The warmest water temperatures in Mar del Plata occur in January, averaging 26.7°C. The coolest conditions are in July at 11.0°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 26.7°C
  • February: 25.8°C
  • March: 24.1°C
  • April: 20.3°C
  • May: 16.3°C
  • June: 13.0°C
  • July: 11.0°C
  • August: 12.2°C
  • September: 14.8°C
  • October: 18.2°C
  • November: 22.3°C
  • December: 24.8°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Mar del Plata

Nearest Dive Centres to Barcaza LM - 1 Carelli

Marine Life in Mar del Plata

Home to 33 recorded species including 19 reef fish, 7 sharks & rays, 3 whales & dolphins, 2 other, 1 crabs & lobsters, 1 sea snails & nudibranchs.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Barcaza LM - 1 Carelli

Based on average water temperature of 19.1°C, currents 3 cm/s.

  • Wetsuit (3-5mm) - comfortable for 19°C water
  • 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