Barcaza LM - 1 Carelli
Why dive here
With 33+ marine species recorded in the area - including sperm whales - Barcaza LM - 1 Carelli offers some of Mar del Plata's richest wreck diving. Water ranges 10-21°C, warmest January, February, March.
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.
Typical Barcaza LM - 1 Carelli 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.
Cold water this month (avg 14°C). Drysuit or thick wetsuit (7mm+) recommended.
Barcaza LM - 1 Carelli Wreck History
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.
Nearest Dive Centres to Barcaza LM - 1 Carelli
Dive shops near Barcaza LM - 1 Carelli
Pilar Buceo
Diving Center - Centro Integral de Buceo
Aquabaires Buceo
CEB Escuela de Buceo
ACUATIKOS
Baires Buceo
Reviews for Barcaza LM - 1 Carelli
Conditions
Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for Barcaza LM - 1 Carelli
Barcaza LM - 1 Carelli Ocean Conditions
Monthly averages for Barcaza LM - 1 Carelli, sourced from Open-Meteo marine data + Copernicus Marine (EU) - nearest station: Open-Meteo marine grid (-38.05, -57.5) (0km away)
October Averages
Sea Temperature
14°C
56°F · Range: 11.1–16.9°C
Current Speed
2.83 cm/s
Direction: SE (135°)
Salinity
0 PSU
Based on 4 years of monitoring data · Data sources: Open-Meteo marine data + Copernicus Marine (EU)
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