MARINE RESERVE & DIVE SITES

The waters of Cabo de Palos and the Islas Hormigas Marine Reserve are highlighted as one of the Mediterranean’s most outstanding marine environments. Declared a Marine Reserve in 1995 for it’s exceptional beauty and conservation, it is a zone where Atlantic currents mix with the warm waters of the Mediterranean creating an area rich in biodiversity.

The rocky coastline from Cartagena penetrates the Mediterranean forming a submerged mountain range of “bajos”, which have become spectacular oases of marine life. Moving out to sea from the coast the pastures of Posedonia  give way to fields of Gorgonia that cover the “bajos”. The water temperature varies between 14ºC in winter to 26ºC in the height of summer, with a pronounced thermocline at varying  depths.

The area is also the site of one of the world’s most important ship graveyards. More than 50 ships were sunk here by German submarines during both World Wars, and their huge iron structures lie at depths of 30-70m forming fascinating artificial reefs.

This full history, it’s natural beauty and favourable environmental conditions have all contributed to the rise of Cabo de Palos as one of Europe’s most sought after diving destinations.