Ho Mei III - Salvador - Salvador & Bahia

Mabouya Whirlpool isn't just a catchy name, it's a dive that genuinely delivers a bit of everything. We love how the reef here blends so seamlessly into a proper boulder garden, giving it a much wilder feel than some of the manicured sites around. The small wreck, reportedly a local fishing boat, has truly become part of the habitat, absolutely covered in encrusting corals and home to big schools of French grunts and sergeant majors. Peer into the darker crevices and you'll often find a nurse shark tucked away, or a spiny lobster waving its antennae. But the real kicker, the thing that always makes us smile, is finding those volcanic bubbles seeping from the seabed – it’s a tangible connection to the island's fiery past, a gentle fizzing spectacle. We’d suggest keeping an eye out for the smaller stuff too; those mouse cones and dwarf planaxis snails are everywhere if you slow down and look. Visibility averages a decent 17m, giving you plenty of scope to take it all in. This is a site that suits divers who appreciate a blend of history, unique geology, and vibrant reef life, without needing extreme depths.

Location
Salvador & Bahia, Brazil, South America
Coordinates
-12.993200, -38.536000
Type
wreck

Marine Protected Area: Área De Proteção Ambiental Baía De Todos Os Santos

Nearby Dive Sites in Salvador & Bahia

Nearest Dive Centres to Ho Mei III - Salvador

Marine Life in Salvador & Bahia

Home to 295 recorded species including 262 reef fish, 10 other, 8 sharks & rays, 4 hard corals, 3 seagrass & algae, 2 whales & dolphins.

Notable Species

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the maximum depth of the Ho Mei III shipwreck dive site in Salvador?
The Ho Mei III shipwreck dive site in Salvador has a maximum depth of 33 meters. This wreck rests standing between 33 and 39 meters deep, offering an exciting dive for those exploring the waters of Brazil.
What kind of marine life and wreck features can divers expect to see at the Ho Mei III dive site?
Divers exploring the Ho Mei III wreck can expect to encounter vibrant marine life, including very common schools of sardines, horse mackerel, bream, and some barracudas. You'll also spot many reef animals such as morays and sole. The wreck itself is a fascinating feature, a ship that sank after its moorings loosened during dismantling, resting upright on the seabed.
How difficult is the Ho Mei III dive site, and what level of diving experience is recommended?
The Ho Mei III dive site is rated as intermediate difficulty, and it is specifically recommended for experienced divers. This challenging wreck dive offers a unique experience for those with the appropriate skill level in the waters of Salvador & Bahia.
What is the best time of year to dive the Ho Mei III wreck in Salvador for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive the Ho Mei III wreck for optimal conditions. For general information on when to dive in Brazil, you might consult DivePlnr's When to Dive guide.
What scuba diving certifications are required or highly recommended to dive the Ho Mei III in Salvador?
While specific certifications are not listed, given that the Ho Mei III is an intermediate difficulty wreck dive recommended for experienced people, an Advanced Open Water certification or a specialty in Wreck Diving would be highly beneficial. These certifications ensure divers have the necessary skills and experience for deeper wreck explorations.
What are the typical water conditions, such as visibility and currents, at the Ho Mei III dive site?
At the Ho Mei III dive site, divers can expect an average visibility of 11 meters. The data provided does not include specific information regarding typical current conditions at this particular wreck in Salvador & Bahia.