Scuba Diving
in Cartagena

Situated just southeast of Cartagena port lies an extensive underwater rock reef, a hidden gem of marine diversity. This site was once marked by a large beacon protruding above the water surface, a warning to incoming ships about the shallow reef below. However, the beacon was demolished and sunk during an extension of the port.

The beacon now resides on the northern side of the reef, 25 meters beneath the water surface. It has become a haven for marine life and is now beautifully encrusted. This site showcases steep edges and precipitous drop-offs, hosting a vast array of marine life. The top of the reef reveals the base of the former beacon and a robust chain link disappearing into the depths, adding an extra layer of intrigue to this site.

Frequent marine encounters here include Moray Eels, Hermit Crabs, Sea Bream, bait balls, and occasionally, the elusive Sunfish.

The visibility ranges between 10m and 25m, with a minimum and maximum depth of 8m and 40m respectively. This site is suitable for divers with Open Water certification.

Generally, the site's conditions are flat and calm. Currents are typically minimal, unless a strong southerly wind stirs the waters, adding a dash of excitement to the diving experience.

The Cueva de la Virgen, located just outside Cartagena, offers an enthralling dive experience for those seeking an underwater adventure but lack cave diving certification. This small but mesmerizing cave system offers a journey filled with wonders.

As you glide towards the entrance, you'll come across two archways. The first stretches back about 25 meters, while the second, larger and more open, welcomes you with a small stone statue of the Virgin Mary standing sentinel at its mouth.

Armed with your flashlight, you'll venture inside the cave that initially spans about 15 meters and gradually widens to 30 meters. Turning back, you'll witness the breathtaking contrast of the vibrant blue entrance against the flashlights of your fellow divers—an ideal backdrop for some spectacular underwater photography. The ceiling of the cave sits at approximately 5 meters deep, with the floor at around 15 meters, gradually becoming shallower the further you venture inside. As natural light diminishes, you'll notice a light tunnel marking the entrance to the cave's main chamber.

In the shallower waters, you'll encounter a thermocline as the water temperature drops slightly. Here, a large sloping rock protrudes from the surface, boasting four stalagmites—a perfect spot for additional photography. Once inside the main chamber, you can inflate your BCD and take a moment to admire your surroundings. An intriguing crack in the cave lets through rays of sunlight, providing an opportunity for some naturally illuminated shots.

For more seasoned and confident divers, a smaller chamber resides on the western side of the cave. Descend towards it to discover a small, dark opening about 1.5m x 1.5m wide. Inside this compact chamber, you'll find petite stalagmites and stalactites alongside a stunning crystal formation—the chamber's highlight. And if you're lucky, you might come across fossilized shark teeth!

Reentering the main chamber, veer to the right and follow the light back to the cave entrance, where you'll emerge into a reef filled with large boulders. Here, you might spot some big mullets patrolling the entrance. Swimming right along the reef wall, keep your eyes peeled for a crack in the wall—a possible home for a Conger Eel or perhaps even Seahorses. Continue to the right, and you'll eventually find your way back to the boat.

Common marine life includes Octopus, Shrimp, Mullet, and occasionally Conger Eels and Seahorses.

Visibility ranges from 8 to 25m, with a minimum and maximum depth of 5m and 15m, respectively. This dive is suitable for Open Water certified divers. However, it is essential that divers are comfortable in confined spaces.

Generally, conditions are calm and flat with no currents. However, the site may not be diveable when the entrance is rough due to southerly winds.

The Tugboat wreck, which was intentionally sunk by the navy in the 1950s as a training tool for divers, offers an immersive dive experience. This 20m long and 4m wide wreck allows for some light penetration into its compartments, offering an enticing glimpse into its structure. Swim along the port side to the ship's bow and then veer left for about 20m, where you'll encounter the Harrier jet fuselage. This aircraft was also submerged by the navy roughly 15 years ago and now rests on a sandy seabed, marking the deepest point of the dive.

The harrier jet, with its unmistakable large engine and intakes, is a fascinating spectacle. A unique experience awaits at the cockpit, where divers can sit for an unforgettable photo opportunity.

Once you're done exploring the jet, swim back to the tail, where you'll usually catch sight of the shipwreck's bow. Continue along the starboard side of the wreck, where you can explore the holds and bridge. Conclude your dive by swimming on top of the bridge and ascending the mooring to conduct a safety stop before surfacing.

The Marine Rescue Helicopter is the latest addition to the CBA's collection of wrecks. Sunk by the navy in 2017, this helicopter wreck lies at a depth of between 22m to 28m and is only recommended for advanced divers or those undertaking a wreck diver specialty course.

Common marine life at these sites includes large scorpion fish, moray eels, nudibranch, and sea bream.

Visibility ranges from 8 to 20m, with the minimum and maximum depths being 12m and 28m respectively. The shallow wreck is suitable for open water divers, while the helicopter wreck is better suited for advanced divers or those taking a wreck or deep diver specialty course.

Conditions at these sites are typically calm, featuring small waves.

The dual-sided diving spots at the Island of Escombreras offer varied experiences and are teeming with marine life. The eastern and western sites provide distinct features, with the former being shallower and marked by a rocky bottom dotted with large boulders extending off the island's slope.

Exploring the terrain around and beneath these boulders uncovers an abundant marine environment, home to nudibranchs, octopuses, large scorpion fish, and crabs. You may even encounter the occasional seahorse, as well as moray eels, groupers, and sunfish in the spring season.

The common marine life at this site includes large scorpion fish, moray eels, nudibranch, and sea bream. With visibility ranging from 8 to 20m, the minimum and maximum diving depths are 5m and 25m, respectively. This location is accessible to open water divers.

The site conditions are generally calm, with the occasional presence of small waves.

Venturing further south of the island, at a depth of 40m, there lies a zone of historical significance. Here, you can spot ancient amphoras dating back to Roman times. This site is highly protected due to its archaeological importance. As enticing as it may be, it's essential to respect the rule of "look but don't touch". Take only photographs and leave only bubbles to preserve this significant aspect of Cartagena's cultural heritage.