Diving atI Relitti (Italy)
The wrecks, collectively known as 'I relitti' in Italy, represent a fascinating intersection of history and vibrant marine ecosystems. These submerged structures have transformed into artificial reefs, attracting a diverse array of Mediterranean sea life. As divers explore the various vessels, they're met with hulls adorned by a spectrum of bryozoans and sponges, creating a living tapestry. Observing how common species like mullets, amberjack, and hermit crabs inhabit these metal skeletons offers a compelling perspective on underwater adaptation.
At I Relitti, the ambient air temperature is currently recorded at 12.3°C. This dive site in Italy is operating under normal seasonal weather patterns. Familiarize yourself with the local topography prior to navigating.
Dive Site Coordinates
45.5971, 10.5223
Dive Site Characteristics
Key Dive Site Facts
Dive Site Overview
Descend into a submerged museum within the Italian waters, where 'I relitti' refers to a collection of historic wrecks scattered across the seafloor. This region offers an unparalleled journey through maritime history, from cargo ships and tankers to destroyers and even a massive German aircraft.
Depths vary significantly, catering to both advanced recreational divers and technical enthusiasts. For instance, the Mohawk Deer, a steamship, rests at an average depth of 30 m (100 ft). The colossal Haven supertanker presents a varied profile, with shallower portions accessible to recreational divers, while its maximum depth reaches beyond 80 meters (262 ft).
Many wrecks, including an unnamed vessel often explored at mid-range depths, lie in good visibility with minimal current, making exploration engaging.
However, deeper sites such as the Antonio Da Noli, an Italian destroyer broken in two at over 90 meters, demand advanced planning and gas mixes like Trimix 15/55 or 18/45, as suggested for sites like UJ2210 or Bolzaneto. Each wreck presents its own unique story and structural integrity, from intact hulls covered in gorgonian forests, as reported for the Nautilus tanker, to vessels broken into multiple sections, like the Relitto Kingstown/Kingdom.
Best Time to Dive
Planning a dive at I relitti often involves considering surface conditions, which directly influence underwater visibility. The months of June through September generally provide excellent surface weather, with average air temperatures ranging from 23°C (73°F) in June to 25°C (77°F) in August. This period typically sees lower rainfall, ensuring calmer seas and better light penetration. However, good diving conditions can extend well into the shoulder seasons. April and May, with air temperatures around 13-17°C (55-63°F), and October, around 16°C (61°F), also offer favorable dive scores, suggesting good visibility is often present. While specific water temperatures aren't consistently reported, warmer air usually correlates with more comfortable water, especially in shallower sections. Winter months, despite cooler air temperatures (e.g., 5-8°C / 41-46°F in January-February), can still offer excellent visibility and dive scores due to less surface activity and runoff, though appropriate thermal protection becomes essential.
Climate Historical Averages
Monthly records compiled from satellite and marine observation nodes over the last 3 years. Data provided by Open-Meteo and MET Norway.
Dive Experience & Conditions
Navigating currents around I relitti varies considerably across different sites. Shallower wreck sites, such as the Mohawk Deer or UJ 2207, frequently report absent or very low currents, allowing for relaxed exploration by recreational divers. Other locations or deeper sections might experience low to moderate currents, possibly necessitating a more dynamic diving approach. Visibility generally remains good, though local conditions like recent weather and sediment disturbance can cause variations. For instance, the Relitto Kingstown/Kingdom provides clear views for exploring its two broken sections on a sandy bottom. Depths span a wide spectrum; many sites are within recreational limits, while others, like the Haven, reach considerably deeper. Divers can therefore anticipate a diverse range of underwater environments, from shallower, well-lit areas to deeper, more challenging zones.
Dive Difficulty & Safety Guidelines
Approaching I relitti requires divers to assess the technical demands of each specific wreck. Some sites, like the JORN barge, are considered easy with minimal current and shallower depths, yet many others are classified as difficult due to their maximum depth or complexity. For example, the Haven is noted for its variable difficulty; recreational divers can access its shallower portions, but a full exploration to its maximum depth requires technical certification. Divers should possess appropriate certifications for deep diving and wreck penetration where applicable, using specialized gas mixtures like Trimix for sites below recreational limits. Maintaining proper buoyancy control remains essential to prevent disturbing fragile structures or sediment. Always dive within your training and experience limits, and with a qualified guide or dive operator familiar with local conditions and wreck layouts.
Recommended Equipment
No verified equipment items yet.
Verified equipment recommendations for this dive site are being reviewed and may be added as additional source checks are completed.
Recommended Dive Suit
Divers planning deeper dives may feel cooler than those staying in shallower areas.
Based on regional estimates and current weather, the likely required exposure protection is a thicker wetsuit or drysuit. Note that local currents and upwellings can alter this. A thermal robe or jacket is recommended between dives. Due to unpredictable weather patterns, conditions may change rapidly. A warming trend is expected over the next few days.
Because recent water temperature readings are not available for I Relitti, the guidance below is based mainly on current air conditions and seasonal expectations. Current surface air temperatures are roughly 12°C (54°F).
Conditions last reviewed: 18:00 using the latest environmental data.
Dive Logistics & Preparation
Hyperbaric Chamber
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Entry Requirements
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Nearest Airports
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Marine Life at I Relitti
Wrecks throughout I relitti have transformed into vibrant artificial reefs, creating dynamic underwater landscapes. Divers will discover hulls extensively colonized by marine growth, including intricate bryozoans and colorful sponges. For instance, the German tanker Nautilus is described as having its hull covered in 'two-colored gorgonia that it looks like a forest!' Such rich benthic life attracts various Mediterranean species. Observing mullets foraging, occasional amberjack patrolling deeper sections, and schools of blue fish moving along structures is common. Spirographs frequently adhere to wreck surfaces, while hermit crabs scuttle among debris, maintaining these historical sites as dynamic ecosystems.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of wrecks can be explored at I relitti?
The I relitti area features a wide variety of submerged vessels. You'll find everything from cargo ships and steamships like the Mohawk Deer, to military vessels such as destroyers and submarine chasers. There's even a German supertanker, the Haven, and a unique Messerschmitt 323 aircraft wreck.
What are the typical depth ranges for diving these wrecks?
Dive depths at I relitti vary significantly depending on the specific wreck. Shallower sites, such as the Mohawk Deer, are within typical recreational dive limits. Many others extend into technical diving territory, with some wrecks like the Antonio Da Noli resting at depths exceeding 90 meters, which requires advanced certifications.
Is I relitti suitable for beginner divers?
Some shallower sites, like the JORN barge at approximately 30 meters with low current, are considered suitable for recreational and even some advanced open water divers. However, many wrecks in this area are classified as difficult due to their depth, size, and potential currents. Beginners should stick to guided dives on entry-level wrecks.
What is the visibility generally like at these wreck sites?
Visibility at I relitti is generally reported as good across many sites. However, conditions can vary depending on local factors such as recent weather, sediment disturbance, and currents. Deeper sites tend to maintain consistent visibility but may experience darker ambient light.
What kind of marine life might I encounter on these dives?
The wrecks act as artificial reefs, hosting a diverse array of Mediterranean marine life. You can expect to see common species like mullets, occasional amberjack, and blue fish swimming around the structures. Hulls are often covered in bryozoans, sponges, and gorgonian corals, providing habitat for spirographs and hermit crabs.
Do I need special training for wreck diving at I relitti?
For many of the deeper and more complex wrecks, advanced or technical diving certifications are essential. Sites reaching depths beyond recreational limits, like the Haven or Antonio Da Noli, require training in deep diving, potentially wreck penetration, and specialized gas mixtures such as Trimix.
What are the water temperatures in the I relitti area?
Specific water temperature data for I relitti is not consistently reported. However, surface air temperatures can give an indication, with warmer months from June to September typically offering more comfortable conditions. Divers should be prepared with appropriate thermal protection, especially for deeper or colder season dives.
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