Maraldi - Salvador & Bahia

Penguin Point can be a bit of a wrestle to get into, especially if there’s any kind of swell running, but trust us, it’s worth the effort. Once you’re in, the wall drops from just a few metres down to a shelf at about 13 metres. We’ve always found this to be a fantastic spot for the bigger stuff. You often see schools of blue maomao so thick you have to fin through them, and the resident snapper are huge. Keep an eye on the sandy patches for cruising short-tail stingrays – we’ve seen some absolute monsters here. The rock walls are home to a surprising number of small invertebrates too, with purple sunset clams tucked into crevices and variable chitons clinging tight. Visibility here averages around 8 metres, which isn’t epic, but it’s enough to really appreciate the scale of the rays and the busy schools of fish. It’s a site that rewards patience, perfect for those who like to take it slow and really observe.

Location
Salvador & Bahia, Brazil, South America
Coordinates
-13.008500, -38.534300

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

Nearby Dive Sites in Salvador & Bahia

Nearest Dive Centres to Maraldi

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 Maraldi Shipwreck dive site?
The Maraldi Shipwreck dive site offers a maximum depth of 7 meters, making it a very shallow and accessible dive. It's particularly ideal for beginners, with much of the wreck accessible at around 6 meters. This makes it a perfect spot for those new to scuba diving or looking for a relaxed exploration.
What kind of marine life and features can divers expect to see at the Maraldi Shipwreck?
Divers at the Maraldi Shipwreck can expect to explore a shallow, dismantled shipwreck featuring a beautiful boiler in its center. This site functions as a typical artificial reef, attracting a vibrant array of marine life. You'll commonly encounter wrasses, surgeons, butterfly and angelfish, alongside fascinating invertebrates like lobsters and crabs, and even graceful turtles. For more on marine species, visit our wildlife database.
How difficult is the Maraldi Shipwreck dive site, and is it suitable for beginners?
The Maraldi Shipwreck is officially rated as an intermediate dive site, yet it is widely considered ideal for beginners and even for dive baptisms due to its shallow maximum depth of 7 meters. Its accessible nature and clear visibility make it a welcoming spot for those new to scuba diving. While the site is dismantled, the "cavernname" in the bottom helps guide the dive.
What is the best time of year to dive the Maraldi Shipwreck for optimal conditions?
Our current data for the Maraldi Shipwreck does not specify a particular best time of year for optimal diving conditions. We recommend checking local dive operators in Salvador & Bahia, Brazil for up-to-date seasonal information. For general guidance on dive planning, you can visit our When to Dive section.
What scuba diving certifications are required or recommended to dive the Maraldi Shipwreck?
Given that the Maraldi Shipwreck is described as ideal for beginners and baptisms, a basic Open Water Diver certification would be sufficient and recommended for this site. For those undergoing a baptism dive, no prior certification is needed as it's conducted under direct instructor supervision. Always ensure your equipment is in good condition for any dive.
What are the typical current and water conditions at the Maraldi Shipwreck dive site?
The Maraldi Shipwreck typically offers good average visibility of 11 meters, enhancing the experience of exploring the shallow wreck and its marine life. Specific information regarding typical current strength or water temperatures for this site is not provided in our current data. We advise consulting local dive centers in Salvador & Bahia for the most current conditions.