Liveaboard diving in
Palma wrecks
Must see
Wreck
The Palma wrecks dive site is an underwater ship graveyard that lies at a depth of 28m/92ft, not far from the harbor of Palma de Mallorca. It consists of the 4 biggest wrecks in Mallorca: two big cargo ships (40m/131ft and 60m/197ft in length) and the two smaller ones, one of which is a sailing yacht. The ships sank in the early 1980s and are in good condition. Many parts of the ships can be penetrated, including the engine and passenger rooms below deck. A lot of time has passed since the ships sank, so there are sharp pieces of corroded steel sticking out, which means that diving at these wrecks can be dangerous--this environment has the potential to damage divers’ equipment and suits. This, along with the low visibility (10-20m/33-66ft) and the prolonged stay at depths greater than 20m/66ft are the reasons why the Palma wrecks dive site should not be attempted by divers with less than advanced diving proficiency.
When To Go Diving
The high water temperature (26C/79F) and the best visibility in this area are during May to October. In the winter, the low water temperature may get down to 13C/55F.
What to see
Along with the wrecks, some interesting fauna can also attract divers' attention at this spot. Because of the relatively young age of the wrecks, many parts of the ships are penetrable: wheelhouses, passenger sleeping areas, and engine rooms, and some smokestacks, decks, command cockpits, and cellars are also accessible. Marine fauna species that can be spotted there include nudibranchs, barracudas, and small damselfish. Large fish are also frequently seen in this area.