wreck

Log This Dive

La Ilusion

La Ilusion, just off Mar del Plata, is a standout for us, even if you’re not usually a wreck diver. It’s a fishing trawler that went down in 1994, and it sits upright in such shallow water – you can practically snorkel over parts of it on a clear day. We love that it’s completely accessible, meaning you can spend a whole dive exploring the wheelhouse, checking out the deck winches, or peeking into the holds. The wreck itself is a magnet for local marine life. You’ll find shoals of anchovies glittering around the mast, conger eels tucked into crevices, and our favourite, the occasional large octopus draped over a metal beam. It’s an ideal site for anyone looking to combine a bit of maritime history with some relaxed exploration. The shallow depth means extended bottom times, perfect for photographers or those still building confidence. We’d suggest going at high tide; it gives you a bit more clearance over the superstructure and generally better visibility as the suspended sediment settles. There’s a palpable sense of the vessel’s working life still clinging to its hull, a quiet tribute beneath the waves.