Petromar

Best months: Jan–Mar

Why dive here

With 33+ marine species recorded in the area - including sperm whales - Petromar 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 15m

The Petromar wreck, just off Mar del Plata, is a solid favourite of ours, especially if you appreciate a bit of history with your dive. She was the Esso Belgium, a steamship that went down in 1961 after a dramatic collision with the MV Pennsylvania in thick fog. You can almost feel that cold, dense air imagining it. Lying at a comfortable 15 metres, it’s a great depth for extending your bottom time and really soaking it all in. What we love about the Petromar is how approachable it is. The wreck is still quite intact in places, with plenty of hull structure to explore. You’ll find schools of hake and groupers hanging out in the darker sections, and the metal itself is covered in vibrant anemones and sponges. Visibility can be a bit variable here, so we always check the local reports before heading out. Our best dives have been on calm, sunny mornings when the light really penetrates, making the whole site glow with greens and browns. It’s a captivating dive for anyone with a bit of wreck experience, perfect for those who enjoy exploring the nooks and crannies of a tangible piece of maritime history.

Typical Petromar Dive Profile

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.

Always perform a 3-minute safety stop at 5m before surfacing.

Today05:2318:0712h 44m daylightGolden hour 17:33

Reviews for Petromar

Conditions

Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for Petromar

Petromar Ocean Conditions

Monthly averages for Petromar, sourced from Open-Meteo marine data + Copernicus Marine (EU) - nearest station: Open-Meteo marine grid (-38.05, -57.5) (0km away)