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.
As evening covers Mohawk Deer, the local air temperature is measured at 25°C. The current wave height at the surface is recorded at 0.1 m. These late-day readings characterize the surface conditions for the night.
Dive Site Location & Key Facts
Everything you need to know about this dive site.
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.
Mohawk Deer
Conditions are Excellent
Best Dive Window
07:00 - 14:00
Optimal conditions expected
Current conditions near Mohawk Deer show 25° air, 23° sea temperature, 0.3 m waves, and 13 km/h wind. Forecast data is refreshed regularly to ensure accuracy.
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 17.5°C (64°F) in May, peaking at 26°C (79°F) in August, and remaining mild into October at 18°C (64°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.
PEAK SEASON SCORE
Scores combine air & water temps, waves, wind & rainfall for overall conditions.
BEST MONTHS TO DIVE
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
Overhead / entanglement risk. Wreck penetration requires proper training.
- Dive Computer
- Primary & Backup Lights
- Wreck Reel
- Cutting Tool
This gear list is based on verified equipment signals for Mohawk Deer, Italy. Always confirm final gear choices with your dive operator, guide, or liveaboard.
Recommended Dive Suit
With water temperatures around 23°C (74°F), many divers find a 3-5mm wetsuit provides comfortable protection.
Being prepared with flexible exposure options is a common approach among experienced divers.
The next few days appear likely to bring similar environmental conditions.
Emergency & Medical Support
Essential information to help you plan your dive trip to Mohawk Deer.
Hyperbaric chambers are a critical part of dive safety infrastructure. Availability varies significantly by region, and not all dive areas have immediate access.
Before diving, it's recommended to:
- confirm nearest medical facilities
- check emergency procedures with local dive operators
- ensure dive insurance covers evacuation if required
Divers Alert Network
Diving emergency assistance available through DAN Europe.
+39 0642115685- 24/7 emergency hotline
- Diving medical assistance
- Evacuation coordination
Emergency contacts are provided for reference. Always verify local emergency services before diving.
Closest Listed Hyperbaric Chambers
Showing listed hyperbaric chamber facilities within 200 km of this dive site.
Distances are approximate straight-line distances and may not reflect emergency travel time.
Unità Operativa di Medica Iperbarica
24/7 ListedICU CapableGenova, Italy•Approx. 21 km straight-line
Unità Operativa di Medica Iperbarica
24/7 ListedICU CapableFacility Details
Information is provided for reference and planning purposes only. Dive Navigator does not verify operational status, staffing, availability, or quality of care at listed facilities. In an emergency, contact local emergency services, DAN, your dive operator, or the chamber directly. Do not travel to a facility without calling ahead.
CE.M.I.S. Centro Medicina Iperbarica e Subacquea
Massa, Italy•Approx. 78 km straight-line
CE.M.I.S. Centro Medicina Iperbarica e Subacquea
Facility Details
Information is provided for reference and planning purposes only. Dive Navigator does not verify operational status, staffing, availability, or quality of care at listed facilities. In an emergency, contact local emergency services, DAN, your dive operator, or the chamber directly. Do not travel to a facility without calling ahead.
Ospedale di Vaio - AUSL Parma
24/7 ListedICU CapableFidenza (Pr), Italy•Approx. 90 km straight-line
Ospedale di Vaio - AUSL Parma
24/7 ListedICU CapableFacility Details
Information is provided for reference and planning purposes only. Dive Navigator does not verify operational status, staffing, availability, or quality of care at listed facilities. In an emergency, contact local emergency services, DAN, your dive operator, or the chamber directly. Do not travel to a facility without calling ahead.
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.
Dive Sites Near Mohawk Deer
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Dive Centers Near Mohawk Deer
Working Hours
Today: 07:00 - 19:00
Diving Group Portofino
Dimensione Diving Lavagna
Centro Sub Tigullio Diving Center Genova
Techdive Haven Team
Nearest Airports
Nearest airports to help plan travel to this dive area.
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Search Flights on ExpediaFrequently 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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Mohawk Deer
Conditions are Excellent
Best Dive Window
07:00 - 14:00
Optimal conditions expected
Current conditions near Mohawk Deer show 25° air, 23° sea temperature, 0.3 m waves, and 13 km/h wind. Forecast data is refreshed regularly to ensure accuracy.