6m
    Mar del Plata, Argentina

    DON FRANCISCO

    Best months: Jan–Mar

    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.

    Best timeJan–Mar
    WetsuitA 5mm wetsuit
    Marine lifeSperm Whales · 33+ species recorded
    Water10-21°C · warmest January, February, March
    CharacterWreck dive · max 6m

    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

    5mSafety Stop0m6m max~60 min estimated bottom time

    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.

    Today05:1317:5812h 45m daylightGolden hour 17:24

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    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)

    ExcellentGreatGoodFairPoor★Best monthsThis month

    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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