PUNTA DELGADA - Mar del Plata

Punta Delgada is a shallow wreck that just keeps giving. This isn't one of those wrecks where you hit the sand and wonder where the rest of it went; the bones of this tanker are still very much there, and at only seven metres, you get a good long look. We love how the hull is broken in places, creating these perfect swim-throughs where you can duck under a twisted plate of steel and pop out on the other side, sometimes with a curious sea lion pup for company. We've seen these playful guys zipping around the superstructure, their whiskers tickling the water as they check you out. Despite the cold water, the wreck is surprisingly alive. Thick clumps of anemones cling to the metal, and we always find a good number of crabs scuttling in the shadows. Look closely in the crevices and you'll spot blennies and gobies poking their heads out. It’s a site that tells a story, a real piece of maritime history down there, and fantastic for photographers keen on dramatic silhouettes against the surface. Visibility can vary, so we’d suggest aiming for calmer days, usually early mornings, to get the best out of it.

Location
Mar del Plata, Argentina, South America
Coordinates
-34.778330, -57.873333
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
7m

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 PUNTA DELGADA

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 PUNTA DELGADA

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 around Ponta Delgada?
The specific dive site Punta Delgada, a fascinating wreck, is found at a depth of 7 meters. This relatively shallow depth makes it accessible for many divers, offering a great opportunity to explore the sunken tanker.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can I expect to see when diving in Ponta Delgada?
When diving at Punta Delgada, you can expect to explore the remains of a tanker vessel, which was sunk on March 4, 1985. This site is classified as a wreck showing a portion of its hull or superstructure, providing an intriguing artificial reef environment. While specific marine life is not detailed, wrecks typically attract diverse ecosystems.
How difficult are the dive sites around Ponta Delgada, and are there options for beginners?
The Punta Delgada dive site is classified as having an intermediate difficulty. While it's not explicitly a beginner site, its shallow depth of 7 meters might be manageable for advanced beginners under proper supervision. Divers should ensure they have the appropriate experience for intermediate wreck diving.
What is the best time of year to go diving in Ponta Delgada for optimal conditions and marine life?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year for optimal diving conditions or marine life at Punta Delgada. For general information on seasonal diving, you might consult our When to Dive guide. We recommend checking with local dive operators in Mar del Plata for current conditions.
What diving certifications are required to dive at sites around Ponta Delgada?
Given that the Punta Delgada dive site is rated as intermediate difficulty, divers should possess at least an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent experience. Wreck diving often benefits from specialized training, which can enhance safety and enjoyment at such sites.
What are the typical water conditions, visibility, and currents like for diving in Ponta Delgada?
The provided data for Punta Delgada does not include details on typical water conditions, visibility, or currents. It's always recommended to check local dive reports and consult with dive operators in Mar del Plata for the most current conditions before planning your dive.