Diving atMohawk Deer (Italy)
The Mohawk Deer wreck presents a compelling underwater journey into maritime history, making it a distinctive site within the Portofino Marine Park. Resting on the seabed after its dramatic sinking in 1967, this former merchant ship now acts as an expansive artificial reef. It offers divers a fascinating blend of historical exploration and vibrant marine habitat.
Evening condition tracking at Mohawk Deer features an air temperature of 15.5°C. We have recorded wave heights measuring 0.22m during this period. These figures outline the environmental parameters currently present.
Dive Site Coordinates
44.3082, 9.1914
Key Dive Site Facts
Dive Site Overview
A Canadian merchant ship, the Mohawk Deer, met its end off Cala degli Inglesi on November 6, 1967. Originally built in 1896 as the Waldo and having a complex history including an earlier shipwreck, the vessel was being towed to La Spezia for scrapping when a strong gale snapped its tow line.
The ship drifted into the rocky Portofino Promontory coastline, sinking to become an iconic wreck site. Today, the wreck is located on a sandy and rocky bottom, with depths ranging from 20 m (66 ft) to 50 m (164 ft). Following a significant storm in 2018, the structure underwent changes, notably with its bow collapsing and the winch sustaining damage.
The original steam engines and two boilers, still present, lie isolated from the main hull at a maximum depth of 51 m (167 ft). It's a sizable structure, having originally been about 118 m (387 ft) long, providing extensive areas for exploration.
Best Time to Dive
Planning a visit to the Mohawk Deer requires considering seasonal changes to optimize the dive experience. The warmer months, generally from May to October, are widely considered the best time for diving here. During this period, summer water temperatures range from 20-26°C (68-79°F), offering comfortable conditions. Air temperatures are also pleasant, averaging 17.7°C (63.9°F) in May, peaking at 25.8°C (78.4°F) in August, and remaining mild into October at 18.1°C (64.6°F). Rainfall is typically lower during the summer, contributing to better visibility. Conversely, winter water temperatures drop to 12-16°C (54-61°F), and the site can experience higher waves, with average wave heights reaching over a meter from January to March.
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
Descending onto the Mohawk Deer, divers encounter a structure resting on a varied seabed of sand and rock. Accessed primarily by boat, visibility below the surface typically ranges between 10 and 20 meters, allowing for good appreciation of the wreck's scale. Conditions usually feature mild currents and no reported surge, simplifying navigation around the extensive wreckage. Divers can explore the partially intact hull, observing the bow and winch damage from recent storms. Separated from the main wreck, distinct boilers lie in the deeper sections of the site, requiring further descent. This particular dive site, with its deeper parts and substantial structure, generally positions itself for intermediate certified divers. While shallower sections offer interesting features, the main hull and engine components extend to depths requiring careful monitoring of bottom time and gas. A rewarding experience awaits those comfortable with deeper recreational limits.
Dive Difficulty & Safety Guidelines
Diver preparedness is paramount when exploring the Mohawk Deer, particularly given its characteristics as a wreck dive. The ship's interior spaces create an overhead environment, necessitating specialized training and equipment for any penetration. Dives around the exterior are suitable for intermediate certified divers. Conditions can be influenced by waves, as the site's history involves exposure to strong gales; divers should assess surface conditions before entry. Permits are required for diving within the Portofino Marine Park, and these must be secured prior to any underwater activity. Always plan dives to avoid exceeding training limits, especially around deeper sections of the wreck.
Recommended Equipment
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Verified equipment recommendations for this dive site are being reviewed and may be added as additional source checks are completed.
Recommended Dive Suit
Recent conditions suggest the water at Mohawk Deer remains near 19°C (66°F), offering typical conditions for the area. Surface air temperatures are resting at 16°C (60°F).
Forecasts suggest rising temperatures later this week. A warming trend is expected over the next few days.
In water temperatures like these, 5mm wetsuit typically offers sufficient warmth for most recreational dives. A thermal robe or jacket is recommended between dives. Some divers naturally tolerate cooler water better than others. Surface intervals may feel noticeably cooler once you exit the water.
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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Currency
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Marine Life at Mohawk Deer
Life thrives around the Mohawk Deer's structure, offering divers views of various species that have adapted to this artificial reef. Large snappers are commonly reported, often seeking refuge within the wreck's interior spaces or hovering along its metal hull. Resident groupers are also observed, making the extensive wreckage their home. Numerous schools of smaller fish gather around the various parts of the structure, creating dynamic underwater scenes. The combination of the wreck itself and the surrounding rocky and sandy seabed attracts a diverse cross-section of Mediterranean marine inhabitants.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What type of vessel was the Mohawk Deer?
The Mohawk Deer was a Canadian merchant ship. It was originally named Waldo and had a long history as a cargo vessel before its final voyage.
When did the Mohawk Deer sink?
The ship sank on November 6, 1967. It ran aground after its tow line broke during a storm while en route to be scrapped.
What is the typical depth range for diving the wreck?
Divers typically explore the Mohawk Deer wreck within the recreational depth range, from 20 to 50 meters. Some components, like the isolated boilers, can be found slightly deeper.
Are there any permits required to dive this site?
Yes, permits are required for diving within the Portofino Marine Park. Divers must obtain these permits before planning their visit to the Mohawk Deer.
What marine life can be seen at the Mohawk Deer?
The wreck provides shelter for diverse marine life, including large snappers and groupers. Many schools of smaller fish are also frequently seen congregating around the structure.
Is wreck penetration safe at this site?
The Mohawk Deer contains interior spaces that constitute an overhead environment. Entering these areas requires appropriate training, specialized equipment, and careful planning to ensure diver safety.
What is the water temperature like during summer and winter?
Summer water temperatures typically range from 20-26°C (68-79°F), offering comfortable conditions. In winter, the water cools to about 12-16°C (54-61°F).
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