EL AGUILA - Santa Marta & Tayrona

El Aguila, a former cargo ship, was intentionally sunk back in 1980, so it’s had plenty of time to become a proper artificial reef. And it shows. We love a wreck that’s truly integrated with its surroundings, and this one delivers. Dropping down, you’ll find the entire structure coated in sponges and gorgonians, a riot of colour against the ship’s aging metal. The stern is our favourite part, with barracudas often hanging out in the gloom, eyeing you up as you pass. Inside the cargo holds, schools of snapper drift lazily, occasionally parting as a grumpy moray eel pokes its head out from a crevice. It’s an easy dive, sitting in around 30 metres, which means decent bottom time to really explore the nooks and crannies. We’d suggest going in the morning; the light filters through the superstructure beautifully, really bringing the wreck to life. Be aware that currents can pick up here, so keep an eye on the dive brief.

Location

Santa Marta & Tayrona, Colombia, South America

Coordinates

10.983334, -74.975000

Type

wreck

Maximum Depth

1m

Marine Protected Area: Isla de Salamanca