Diving atNasello (Italy)
An Italian merchant steamship, the Nasello, was built in 1924 before its sinking by British torpedoes in 1943. It now rests on its port side off Cala Luna, its hull violently torn apart, which exposes much of its internal machinery. At the stern, divers find the propeller and rudder, though one blade is notably absent. Both bow and stern sections remain largely intact, hinting at its operational past.
Evening condition tracking at Nasello features an air temperature of 29°C. We have recorded wave heights measuring 0.1 m during this period. These figures outline the environmental parameters currently present.
Dive Site Location & Key Facts
Everything you need to know about this dive site.
Dive Site Overview
Engaging with the Nasello wreck provides a tangible connection to maritime history, resting off Cala Luna in Sardinia's Orosei region. Built as a fishing steamship in 1924, the Italian merchant vessel met its fate in 1943, sunk by a British submarine.
Diving here offers an intermediate challenge, necessitating an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent, as maximum depths extend to 32 to 34 m (104-112 ft). Upon descent, divers confront the aftermath of its violent demise; the hull lies on its port side, with severe damage across its central section where torpedoes made impact. Numerous internal machinery parts are laid bare due to the destruction.
Amidst the debris, the propeller and rudder are still discernible at the stern, although one blade is notably absent. Exploring the relatively preserved bow and stern sections reveals clearer glimpses into the ship's original layout and compartments, offering a chance for limited penetration for qualified divers.
An average dive typically spans around 45 minutes, allowing ample time to appreciate this historical artifact and the thriving marine life it now hosts, which has transformed it into a vibrant artificial reef.
Nasello
Conditions are Excellent
Best Dive Window
07:00 - 14:00
Optimal conditions expected
Current conditions near Nasello show 29° air, 23° sea temperature, 0.5 m waves, and 28 km/h wind. Forecast data is refreshed regularly to ensure accuracy.
Best Time to Dive
Seasonal conditions favor diving at Nasello from May through October, aligning with "Excellent" dive scores for June, July, and August. During these peak months, water temperatures consistently range from 22-26°C (72-79°F), ensuring comfortable conditions for longer dives. Air temperatures are also quite pleasant, averaging 25°C in June, peaking at 28.5°C in July, and settling around 28°C in August. Minimal rainfall, typically under 1 mm, contributes to stable surface conditions. Waves generally remain low, averaging 0.3 to 0.4 meters, which translates to calmer boat rides to the site. Beyond these months, conditions remain "Good" for diving, though winter water temperatures drop to 14-18°C (57-64°F). Expect higher wave heights and cooler air temperatures, with January and February averages near 12°C and 13°C, and waves approaching 1 meter.
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
Reaching the Nasello wreck requires a boat entry, followed by a descent into the Mediterranean's depths. As divers descend, visibility varies considerably, from 15 to 30 m (50-100 ft), influenced by daily conditions and seasonal plankton blooms. Currents are typically mild or absent, facilitating a relaxed and controlled exploration. Resting on its port side at approximately 34 m (112 ft), the ship's central section is completely destroyed, creating a dramatic visual impact. Moving sternward, the rudder and a lone propeller blade are identifiable, protruding from the sand. Further exploration uncovers two cabins, now only structural skeletons with missing walls. Bow and stern sections remain largely intact, offering opportunities for controlled penetration by appropriately certified divers.
Dive Difficulty & Safety Guidelines
Given the intermediate difficulty and depth of the Nasello wreck, an Advanced Open Water Diver certification or equivalent is required. Planning your dive within no-decompression limits is crucial, and a dive computer is an essential tool for monitoring your bottom time and ascent profile. While currents are generally mild, conditions can vary, so always check local reports before entering the water. For those considering penetration into the bow or tail sections, extreme caution is advised due to the presence of loose cables, discarded fishing nets, and rusty metal. Maintaining excellent buoyancy control is paramount to avoid disturbing sediment or entangling in debris. Always dive with a reliable buddy and carry a surface marker buoy for safety.
Recommended Equipment
Deep dive hazard. Increased narcosis and gas consumption risk.
Overhead / entanglement risk. Wreck penetration requires proper training.
- Dive Computer
- DSMB
- Primary & Backup Lights
- Wreck Reel
- Cutting Tool
This gear list is based on verified equipment signals for Nasello, Italy. Always confirm final gear choices with your dive operator, guide, or liveaboard.
Recommended Dive Suit
Recent conditions suggest the water at Nasello remains near 23°C (74°F), offering typical conditions for the area. Surface air temperatures are resting at 29°C (84°F).
Conditions are expected to stay fairly consistent in the days ahead.
Most divers would typically feel comfortable using 3-5mm wetsuit in these conditions. Dive depth and duration can significantly affect perceived warmth.
Emergency & Medical Support
Essential information to help you plan your dive trip to Nasello.
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.
Ospedale Paolo Merlo - Centro Iperbarico La Maddalena
ICU CapableLa Maddalena, Italy•Approx. 112 km straight-line
Ospedale Paolo Merlo - Centro Iperbarico La Maddalena
ICU 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.
Servizio di Medicina Iperbarica "Giancarlo Boero”
24/7 ListedICU CapableCagliari, Italy•Approx. 119 km straight-line
Servizio di Medicina Iperbarica "Giancarlo Boero”
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.
CENTRO IPERBARICO SASSARESE SRL
Sassari, Italy•Approx. 121 km straight-line
CENTRO IPERBARICO SASSARESE SRL
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.
Marine Life at Nasello
Upon the Nasello wreck, a dense mix of marine flora immediately catches the eye, covering its surfaces. Abundant growth attracts numerous species, transforming the sunken vessel into an active habitat. Look for large scorpionfish, often camouflaged amongst the encrusted metal and algae. Groupers frequently patrol the wreck's larger structures. Sea cicadas and sizable moray eels might be spotted lurking within crevices and exposed machinery. Divers may also encounter stonefish, nudibranchs, and occasional rays gliding along the sandy seabed surrounding the wreck. Its evolution from historical artifact into a vibrant ecosystem is consistently impressive.
Dive Sites Near Nasello
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Dive Centers Near Nasello
Working Hours
Today: 08:30 - 13:00 • 15:00 - 19:30
Base1 Sardinia
Orosei Diving Center
Nearest Airports
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Search Flights on ExpediaFrequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum depth of the Nasello wreck?
The Nasello wreck lies on its port side with its deepest point reaching approximately 34 m (112 ft). The site max depth for general diving is reported as 30 m (100 ft).
What certification is needed to dive Nasello?
Due to its depth and intermediate difficulty, an Advanced Open Water Diver certification or equivalent is required to dive the Nasello wreck. This ensures divers have the necessary experience for deeper explorations.
What marine life can be seen at Nasello?
The wreck is home to diverse marine species. Common sightings include scorpionfish, groupers, sea cicadas, and large moray eels. You might also spot nudibranchs and rays.
What are the water temperatures like?
Water temperatures vary seasonally; they are typically 22-26°C (72-79°F) in summer and cooler, ranging from 14-18°C (57-64°F) in winter.
How long is a typical dive at Nasello?
An average dive at the Nasello wreck usually lasts around 45 minutes. This duration allows sufficient time for exploring the wreck's distinct sections.
Are there any specific hazards to be aware of?
Within the wreck's interior, divers should be cautious of loose cables, discarded fishing nets, and rusty metal. Maintaining excellent buoyancy is crucial, especially if considering controlled penetration of the bow or stern.
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Nasello
Conditions are Excellent
Best Dive Window
07:00 - 14:00
Optimal conditions expected
Current conditions near Nasello show 29° air, 23° sea temperature, 0.5 m waves, and 28 km/h wind. Forecast data is refreshed regularly to ensure accuracy.