CIUDAD DE ITAGUI - Santa Marta & Tayrona

The **Ciudad de Itagüí** isn't just a wreck; it's a testament to the sea's power and its incredible ability to reclaim. This 103-meter motor vessel, built in 1945 and sunk in 1984 after running aground, lies at a friendly 12 meters, making it incredibly accessible for most divers. We love that you can really take your time here, tracing the outline of the hull, exploring the remnants of the superstructure, and imagining its past life. What you'll find today is a vibrant artificial reef. Schools of grunts and snapper weave through the broken metal, their scales flashing as they catch the light filtering down from above. Look closely and you'll spot scorpionfish camouflaged against the rust, and often, we’ve seen eagle rays gracefully gliding past in the blue. The sheer size of the wreck means there’s always something new to observe, from the smallest nudibranchs clinging to the encrusted metal to the larger pelagics that occasionally cruise by. It's a fantastic site for photographers, too, offering dramatic backdrops and plenty of stationary subjects. For us, it’s one of Santa Marta’s standout dives – a big wreck, shallow depth, and usually calm conditions make for a seriously enjoyable exploration.

Location

Santa Marta & Tayrona, Colombia, South America

Coordinates

11.079722, -74.911670

Type

wreck

Maximum Depth

12m

Marine Protected Area: Isla de Salamanca