wreck

Log This Dive

NATA GAUCHA

Nata Gaucha, what a name for a wreck, isn't it? This site in Mar del Plata is shallow, just 6 metres deep, which makes it incredibly accessible but also quite vulnerable to surge. We love it for its sheer character, the skeletal remains of what was once a fishing trawler. You won't find colourful corals here, but the metalwork is draped in an impressive variety of anemones and hydroids, swaying gently with the movement of the water. Penetration isn't really an option, it's too broken up and too dangerous, but there's plenty to explore externally. Our favourite part is peeking into the engine room's remains; it’s a dark, silty recess now home to numerous small fish – think blennies and scorpionfish tucked into every crevice. Visibility can be hit or miss, typical for the South Atlantic, so we'd suggest picking a calm day, ideally after a few days of settled weather. When the light hits the wreck just right, it’s beautiful in a stark, industrial way. It's an excellent site for photographers looking for something a bit different, or newer divers wanting a taste of wreck diving without the depth or technical challenges.