Petromar - Mar del Plata

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.

Location
Mar del Plata, Argentina, South America
Coordinates
-33.802500, -59.244915
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
15m

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 Petromar

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 Petromar

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 is the typical depth range for diving at the Petromar dive site?
The Petromar dive site offers a typical depth of 15 meters, making it accessible for divers with various experience levels. This moderate depth provides ample bottom time to thoroughly explore the fascinating wreck. For more details on this site, visit the Petromar dive site page.
What kind of marine life and underwater topography can divers expect to see at Petromar?
Divers at Petromar can expect to explore a compelling underwater topography centered around a steam ship vessel wreck, the EX- ESSO BELGIUM. This site, classified as a wreck showing a portion of its hull or superstructure, offers an intriguing environment for exploration. While specific marine life isn't detailed in the provided data, wrecks typically become artificial reefs, attracting a variety of local species over time; you can learn more about general marine life in our wildlife database.
How would you rate the difficulty of diving at Petromar, and is it suitable for beginners?
Diving at Petromar is rated as intermediate difficulty, indicating it requires some prior diving experience. While not ideal for absolute beginners, divers with appropriate training and comfort with wreck diving conditions will find it a rewarding site. We recommend ensuring your equipment and skills are suitable for intermediate dives.
What is the best time of year or season to dive at Petromar for optimal conditions and marine encounters?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year or season to dive at Petromar for optimal conditions or marine encounters. For general guidance on dive planning and seasonal considerations, you might consult our When to Dive guide. Always check with local operators for current conditions.
Are there any specific diving certifications or experience levels required to dive at Petromar?
Given its intermediate difficulty rating, divers should possess appropriate certifications and experience levels beyond basic open water. While not explicitly stated, advanced open water or a wreck diver specialty would be highly beneficial for safely exploring this unique site. Always ensure your equipment and training are suitable for the planned dive.
What are the usual currents, visibility, and water temperature conditions at the Petromar dive site?
The provided data does not include specific information regarding the usual currents, visibility, or water temperature conditions at the Petromar dive site. For up-to-date local conditions, it's always best to consult with local dive operators in Mar del Plata before planning your dive. They can provide the most current and accurate details for your trip.