La Pastelería - Santa Marta & Tayrona

The Navigator Wreck is one of those sites we always try to fit in when we're diving the Somosomo Strait. It’s a 49-meter Chinese longliner, intentionally sunk, now resting upright on the sandy seabed at about 30 meters. What we love about it is the sheer accessibility – you can drop right into the wheelhouse, navigating through the controls, or peer into the holds with a torch, picking out the old wiring and pipes. It's a proper swim-through wreck, but without being intimidating. Visibility usually hovers around 15 metres, which is plenty for admiring the wreck’s full outline, or spotting the flash of a leopard hind as it darts between compartments. This wreck is quickly becoming a true artificial reef. New coral is starting to pop up on the decks, and the hull is now home to schools of blue and gold fusiliers, swirling around the structure. We’ve found cardinal soldierfish tucked into every dark corner, and the occasional bicolor angelfish picking at the nascent growth. It’s a site that suits divers who enjoy a bit of history alongside their marine life, a gentle exploration without strong currents.

Location
Santa Marta & Tayrona, Colombia, South America
Coordinates
9.803500, -75.713000
Type
wreck

Marine Protected Area: Los Corales del Rosario y de San Bernardo

Nearby Dive Sites in Santa Marta & Tayrona

Nearest Dive Centres to La Pastelería

Marine Life in Santa Marta & Tayrona

Home to 533 recorded species including 416 reef fish, 38 hard corals, 17 sharks & rays, 13 other, 9 crabs & lobsters, 7 whales & dolphins.

Notable Species

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the typical depths for recreational diving at La Pastelería?
La Pastelería is an excellent site for deep dives, reaching a maximum depth of 21 meters. This makes it suitable for both recreational fun dives and deep dive training at La Pastelería.
What kind of marine life and underwater topography can divers expect to see at La Pastelería?
At La Pastelería, divers can expect unique topography, with corals covered in a thin layer of dust, resembling flour from a bakery. The site features several areas with groups of reefs and offers encounters with diverse fauna. Keep an eye out for adult Cubera Snapper, which are notably larger than average for the region, and explore more about marine life in our wildlife database.
How difficult is the La Pastelería dive site, particularly concerning currents and overall challenge?
The La Pastelería dive site is rated as having an intermediate difficulty level. While specific current conditions are not detailed, its intermediate rating suggests divers should be comfortable with various underwater challenges and have appropriate experience.
What is the best time of year to dive La Pastelería for optimal conditions and marine encounters?
Based on the provided data, specific information regarding the best time of year to dive La Pastelería for optimal conditions and marine encounters is not available. We recommend checking local dive operators or our When to Dive section for general guidance on the Santa Marta & Tayrona region.
What scuba diving certifications are required or highly recommended for diving at La Pastelería?
Given that La Pastelería is an excellent site for deep dives with a maximum depth of 21 meters and an intermediate difficulty, an Advanced Open Water Diver certification is highly recommended. This certification would prepare divers for the depths and potential challenges of the site, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.
What are the usual current conditions and visibility levels experienced at La Pastelería?
Divers at La Pastelería can typically expect excellent visibility, usually around 20 meters (60 feet), with an average visibility of 19 meters. While specific current conditions are not detailed in the provided information, the site is known for its clear waters, making for enjoyable dives.