SAGITTARIUS - Mar del Plata

The *Sagittarius* sits upright in a surprisingly shallow five metres off Mar del Plata, a good spot for new wreck divers or those looking for a longer bottom time. This steamship, built in 1943, went down after a collision in 1969 and now offers a substantial structure to explore. We’ve found the wreck covered in mussels and anemones, with schools of silversides often hugging the decks. It’s a great introduction to wreck diving, particularly given the easily manageable depth. Visibility can vary, but on a good day, you get a real sense of the ship’s scale.

Location
Mar del Plata, Argentina, South America
Coordinates
-35.158333, -57.016666
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
5m

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 SAGITTARIUS

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 SAGITTARIUS

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 diving depths available at Sagittarius Resort?
The Sagittarius wreck, located near Mar del Plata, Argentina, is found at a depth of 5 meters. This specific depth allows for good bottom times and light penetration, making it an interesting site for wreck exploration. Divers can expect to explore the remains of this 134.5m x 17.3m steam ship vessel.
What kind of marine life and coral can be seen when diving at Sagittarius Resort?
Unfortunately, the provided data context for the Sagittarius wreck does not include specific information on marine life or coral sightings. While many wrecks become artificial reefs over time, we cannot confirm the exact species you might encounter here. For general information on marine life, you can visit our wildlife database.
How challenging is the diving at Sagittarius Resort for different skill levels?
Diving at the Sagittarius wreck is classified as intermediate difficulty. This site is also noted as a Dangerous wreck, indicating that divers should possess appropriate experience and training for such environments. It's crucial for divers to be aware of the specific challenges associated with exploring a sunken vessel of this nature.
What is the best time of year or day to dive at Sagittarius Resort for optimal conditions?
The provided data for the Sagittarius wreck does not specify the best time of year or day for optimal diving conditions. Factors like local weather patterns and seasonal changes can significantly impact visibility and currents. For general guidance on planning your dives, you might find our When to Dive section helpful.
What scuba diving certifications are required or can be obtained at Sagittarius Resort?
The provided context for the Sagittarius wreck does not detail specific scuba diving certifications required or obtainable directly at the site. Given its intermediate difficulty and classification as a Dangerous wreck, advanced wreck diving certifications are often recommended for such sites. Always consult with local dive operators in Mar del Plata for precise requirements.
What are the usual water conditions and currents like for diving around Sagittarius Resort?
Information regarding the usual water conditions and currents for diving around the Sagittarius wreck is not available in the provided data context. Local conditions in Mar del Plata can vary, and currents can be a significant factor when diving wrecks. We always recommend checking with local dive centers for the most current conditions before planning your dive.