DON IGNACIO T - Mar del Plata

The Don Ignacio T, submerged just off Mar del Plata, is a surprisingly engaging wreck for how shallow it sits. At a maximum depth of three metres, this isn't a deep dive, but it's far from boring. We’re talking about a tug vessel, and while it's classified as a dangerous wreck for shipping, for us divers, it’s a delightful exploration. You can clearly make out the structure of the tug, its hull now colonised by a shaggy growth of algae and small anemones. It’s an ideal spot for macro enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a relaxed dive with interesting structure. Visibility can be temperamental here, typical of coastal dives, but on a good day, the sunlight filters through the shallow water, highlighting the barnacled metal and the small fish darting in and out of the crevices. We've often seen juvenile hake tucked into the nooks, and crabs scuttling across the deck plates. Our favourite time to dive it is on an incoming tide when the water tends to be clearest. It's a genuinely accessible piece of history and a great option if you're looking for something different from the usual reef dives.

Location
Mar del Plata, Argentina, South America
Coordinates
-34.630280, -58.353054
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
3m

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 DON IGNACIO T

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 DON IGNACIO T

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