GENERAL PUEYRREDON - Mar del Plata

Alright, let's talk about the General Pueyrredon in Mar del Plata. This isn't your typical tropical drift dive, but it’s got a raw, historical power that really sticks with you. We’re talking about a massive tanker, 172.5 meters long, that just… *exploded* while undergoing repairs back in '71. Seven men lost their lives, and the sheer scale of the wreckage, even now, gives you pause. Diving the Pueyrredon is less about vibrant colours and more about texture and shadow. At just 2 meters deep, it’s remarkably accessible, more of an underwater snorkel for some, but don’t let that fool you. What you’re seeing is a collapsed metal landscape, twisted and corroded, completely colonised by the local ecosystem. We love seeing the tough, resilient marine life that thrives here, particularly the dense congregations of anemones that carpet the metal. Keep an eye out for crabs scuttling over the plates and the shoals of small fish darting through the skeletal superstructure. It’s an easy dive, perfect for photographers wanting to capture something different, or anyone who appreciates a wreck with a truly impactful story.

Location
Mar del Plata, Argentina, South America
Coordinates
-34.825000, -57.916668
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
2m

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 GENERAL PUEYRREDON

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 GENERAL PUEYRREDON

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the typical depths for diving at the General Pueyrredon dive site?
The General Pueyrredon dive site offers a shallow diving experience, with typical depths around 2 meters. This makes it accessible for divers looking for a unique wreck exploration in very shallow waters.
What kind of marine life and underwater features, such as wrecks or reefs, can divers expect to see at General Pueyrredon?
Divers at General Pueyrredon can expect to explore a significant underwater feature- a large tanker vessel. This impressive wreck, measuring 172.5m x 21.6m, was built in 1951 and tragically sank on September 15, 1971, after an explosion during engine repairs. While specific marine life details are not provided in our current data, wrecks often become artificial reefs, attracting various species over time, which you can learn more about in our wildlife database.
How challenging is diving at General Pueyrredon, and is it suitable for all certification levels?
Diving at General Pueyrredon is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. Due to its classification as a Dangerous wreck and the specific circumstances of its sinking, it is recommended for divers with appropriate experience and training. It may not be suitable for absolute beginners or those without specific wreck diving experience.
What is the best season or time of year to dive General Pueyrredon for optimal conditions and visibility?
Unfortunately, specific data regarding the best season or time of year for optimal conditions and visibility at General Pueyrredon is not available in our current records. We recommend checking our When to Dive section for general guidance on diving in the Argentina region.
What diving certifications are required or recommended to dive safely at General Pueyrredon?
Given that General Pueyrredon is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive and a Dangerous wreck, it is highly recommended that divers possess at least an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent. Specialized wreck diving certifications would also be beneficial for safely exploring this unique site.
What are the usual water temperatures, visibility, and current conditions at the General Pueyrredon dive site?
Our current data for the General Pueyrredon dive site does not include specific details on usual water temperatures, visibility, or current conditions. For the most up-to-date information, it is always best to consult with local dive operators in Mar del Plata before planning your dive.