DON FRANCISCO
Why dive here
With 33+ marine species recorded in the area - including sperm whales - DON FRANCISCO offers some of Mar del Plata's richest wreck diving. Water ranges 10-21°C, warmest January, February, March.
Don Francisco isn't about deep blue canyons or manta rays, let's get that straight. This is a shallow, historical wreck, and we absolutely love it for what it is: a moody, accessible slice of Mar del Plata's maritime past. At only 6 metres, it’s a site for long bottom times and really soaking in the atmosphere. We’ve spent many an afternoon here, finning slowly over the scattered timbers, imagining the old fishing boat’s final moments. What you'll find here is a genuine old wooden fishing trawler, broken but still largely intact, a testament to the power of the sea. Light filters through the gaps in the hull, illuminating the thick carpets of mussels and anemones that have claimed every surface. Crabs scuttle from under planks, and we’ve often spotted conger eels peeking out from darker corners. It's not a pristine coral reef, it’s a living museum, and our favourite detail is the way the light plays on the wooden structure, making it feel incredibly ancient and alive all at once. It’s perfect for divers who appreciate history and macro life, or those just looking for a relaxed, unique dive.
Typical DON FRANCISCO 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.
Reviews for DON FRANCISCO
Conditions
Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for DON FRANCISCO
DON FRANCISCO Ocean Conditions
Monthly averages for DON FRANCISCO, 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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