Built in the shipyards of Cádiz in 1918 under the name Nadir, its name at the time of sinking was Isla Gomera, but it is popularly known as “El Naranjito.” It was a cargo ship measuring 51.81 m in length and 7.97 m in beam.
The shipwreck occurred one mile from the port of Cabo de Palos, while sailing from the port of Cartagena to Barcelona with a cargo of oranges (hence the nickname Naranjito). The tragedy took place on April 12, 1946, during a storm that caused a leak and, in turn, the displacement of the cargo, which led to the sinking of the ship. The wooden bridge and the cargo of thousands of oranges remained afloat and washed up on the coast in the following days.
The rescue was delayed considerably due to the lack of resources in Cabo de Palos. The few who managed to survive were rescued by small rowing boats that came to their aid.
The wreck lies on a sandy bottom, in a sailing position and oriented from east to west. The anchor is located at the bow, at a depth of about 27 m, which is the shallowest part. The stern is at the maximum depth, with the propeller 44 m below, half buried in the sand at the bottom. It is in good condition and has become a classic diving spot in Cabo de Palos.
When the transparency of the water allows it, a few meters down the anchor line attached to the windlass, we begin to see its imposing silhouette. Clouds of small three-tailed fish welcome you to the forecastle. A couple of large holds and we arrive at the steam engine room, where we can see the impeccable boiler, all the machinery well guarded by large conger eels and brotulas.
If we lean over the side, from the davits, and let ourselves fall, we discover the rudder and propeller colonized by gorgonians. The tilt of the boat means that part of the bow is lifted off the bottom, providing shelter for groupers and other large fish.
It is the most visited wreck in Cabo de Palos. However, frequent currents, thermoclines, depth, and sometimes poor visibility make diving at Naranjito unsuitable for beginner or untrained divers. If the current or poor sea conditions do not prevent it, numerous divers descend to this ship every day.
To dive here, you need: For your health and safety, it is important that you do not dive when tired or unfit. The use of your own dive computer is mandatory. Gloves, a flashlight, and a knife are recommended. The dive will be planned based on the divers’ wreck diving experience, always within the parameters of recreational diving, without decompression.
Certification: Advanced diver, Deep specialty recommended.
