FOKA - Mancora & North Coast

The FOKA wreck, resting at a shallow 5 meters in Mancora's waters, is an interesting change of pace from reef diving. This old fishing vessel, grounded in Paita Bay back in '83, is a substantial wreck at over 87 meters long. You'll spend your time exploring its massive, broken hull, which now provides shelter for various schooling fish and the occasional patrolling reef shark. It's an easy dive, perfect for photographers wanting to capture the light playing on the metal, or anyone looking for a relaxed wreck swim-through without the depth. Just keep an eye on the surge; a big swell can really get the wreck moving.

Location
Mancora & North Coast, Peru, South America
Coordinates
-5.035417, -81.063614
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
5m

Best Time to Dive in Mancora & North Coast

The warmest water temperatures in Mancora & North Coast occur in January, averaging 23.9°C. The coolest conditions are in December at 23.9°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 23.9°C (air: 25.7°C)
  • February: 23.9°C (air: 26.8°C)
  • March: 23.9°C (air: 26.9°C)
  • April: 23.9°C (air: 26.2°C)
  • May: 23.9°C (air: 24.7°C)
  • June: 23.9°C (air: 23.2°C)
  • July: 23.9°C (air: 22.4°C)
  • August: 23.9°C (air: 21.9°C)
  • September: 23.9°C (air: 21.8°C)
  • October: 23.9°C (air: 22.3°C)
  • November: 23.9°C (air: 21.8°C)
  • December: 23.9°C (air: 24.0°C)

Nearby Dive Sites in Mancora & North Coast

Nearest Dive Centres to FOKA

Marine Life in Mancora & North Coast

Home to 77 recorded species including 70 reef fish, 3 whales & dolphins, 3 sharks & rays, 1 sea snails & nudibranchs.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for FOKA

Based on average water temperature of 23.9°C.

  • Wetsuit (3-5mm) - comfortable for 24°C water
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the typical diving depths at FOKA dive sites?
The FOKA dive site offers a typical diving depth of 5 meters. This shallow depth makes it accessible for divers looking to explore a historical wreck.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at FOKA?
At the FOKA dive site, divers can explore the impressive underwater features of a historical fishing vessel wreck. This 87.2m x 14m vessel, built in 1965, offers an intriguing structure with portions of its hull and superstructure visible. While specific marine life is not detailed in the provided data, wrecks often attract various species.
How challenging are the dive sites at FOKA, and are they suitable for beginners?
The FOKA dive site is classified as having an intermediate difficulty level. While its shallow depth of 5 meters might seem suitable, the intermediate rating suggests it may not be ideal for absolute beginners without proper guidance or experience. Divers should possess the necessary skills for wreck diving or diving in potentially challenging conditions.
What is the best time of year to dive at FOKA for optimal conditions and marine encounters?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive at FOKA for optimal conditions or marine encounters. For general information on seasonal diving conditions in the region, you may want to consult our When to Dive guide.
What diving certifications are required to explore the various FOKA dive sites?
While specific certification requirements are not detailed, given the FOKA dive site's intermediate difficulty classification and its nature as a wreck, divers should ideally hold at least an Advanced Open Water certification or a specialty wreck diving certification. It is always recommended to check with local dive operators in Mancora & North Coast, Peru for their specific requirements.
What are the typical water conditions and currents like at FOKA dive locations?
The provided data does not detail the typical water conditions or currents at the FOKA dive location. However, the wreck's grounding was attributed to a heavy swell caused by a hurricane, suggesting that the area can experience significant water movement under certain conditions. Divers should always consult local dive centers for current conditions before planning their dive.