15m
    Arraial do Cabo, Brazil
    Reserva De Desenvolvimento Sustentável Do Aventureiro

    Naufrágio do Califórnia

    Best months: Mar–Apr

    Protected Area

    Reserva De Desenvolvimento Sustentável Do Aventureiro

    Why dive here

    With 55+ marine species recorded in the area - including humpback whales - Naufrágio do Califórnia offers some of Arraial do Cabo's richest wreck diving. Water ranges 22-28°C, warmest January, February, March.

    Best timeMar–Apr
    WetsuitA 3mm shorty or thin full wetsuit
    Marine lifeHumpback Whales · 55+ species recorded
    Water22-28°C · warmest January, February, March
    CharacterWreck dive · max 15m

    The Naufrágio do Califórnia, often just called the Califórnia, is a true standout in Arraial do Cabo. This isn't just a pile of metal; it’s a proper wreck, sitting upright in a modest 15 meters of water. We love that it’s accessible to so many divers, not just the deep tech crowd. You'll find it fairly intact, the hull still holding its shape, and the bow pointing towards the surface. Our favourite part has to be the penetration opportunities. There are several spots to duck inside, offering a real sense of exploration, though always check with your guide first. Light shafts pierce through openings, illuminating schools of Pale Cardinalfish and the occasional Snapper hiding in the darker corners. Outside, the wreck is completely colonised. We've seen fat Hogfish cruising the deck, Atlantic Bumpers shimmering above the superstructure, and Kingfish darting in the blue. Keep an eye out for Flagfin Blennies peeking from crevices – they’re masters of camouflage. It’s an absolute joy for photographers and anyone who appreciates a wreck with history. Dive it early in the morning to beat the crowds and catch the best light.

    Typical Naufrágio do Califórnia Dive Profile

    5m10m15mSafety Stop0m15m max~50 min estimated bottom time

    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.

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

    Today05:3018:0012h 30m daylightGolden hour 17:30

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    Conditions

    Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for Naufrágio do Califórnia

    Naufrágio do Califórnia Ocean Conditions

    Monthly averages for Naufrágio do Califórnia, sourced from Open-Meteo marine data + Copernicus Marine (EU) - nearest station: Open-Meteo marine grid (-23.23, -44.16) (12km away)

    ExcellentGreatGoodFairPoor★Best monthsThis month

    October Averages

    Sea Temperature

    23°C

    73°F · Range: 17.8–26.6°C

    Current Speed

    8.49 cm/s

    Direction: SW (225°)

    Salinity

    35.38 PSU

    Based on 4 years of monitoring data · Data sources: Open-Meteo marine data + Copernicus Marine (EU)

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