Mexico

Dive Site: La Paz 03 Wreck

18–21 mBeginner Wreck
© EsriSource: Esri, Maxar, Earthstar, GIS Community · Labels © Esri, HERE, Garmin, FAO, NOAA, USGS

Which liveaboards dive La Paz 03 Wreck?

About La Paz 03 Wreck

The C-59 Wreck is an artificial reef located near La Paz, Mexico, gifted by the American military to the Mexican government. This vessel was intentionally prepared and scuttled to create a vibrant underwater habitat, offering a unique wreck diving experience in the Sea of Cortez. Positioned at a depth of approximately 18 meters (60 feet) to 21 meters (70 feet), the C-59 provides opportunities for penetration for divers with appropriate certifications. Its structure allows for safe exploration, including crossing the boat from bow to stern through various sections. The wreck has become an artificial reef, attracting marine life and showcasing intricate formations within its holds. While the C-59 Wreck may not boast the same density of fish life as natural reefs, it hosts a variety of fish and invertebrates. It offers excellent short swim-throughs for exploration. The site is a popular spot for divers seeking to explore a prepared wreck and observe the smaller marine inhabitants that have made it their home. General diving conditions in La Paz can involve strong currents, making this a site that requires attention to conditions. Visibility at the C-59 Wreck typically ranges from 12 to 18 meters (40 to 60 feet), with water temperatures around 25.5°C (78°F). It is suitable for Open Water certified divers to explore the exterior, with advanced certifications recommended for internal penetration.

Highlights

Artificial reef structurePrepared wreck penetrationShort swim-throughsVariety of fish and invertebratesLa Paz wreck diving

Season calendar

Best months to dive here
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Excellent
Good

Nov – Apr (Peak)

Socorro season open (Nov–May) for giant mantas and hammerheads. Cozumel bull sharks Dec–Mar. Cenotes excellent year-round. Best overall conditions.

May – Oct (Transition & Sea of Cortez)

Socorro closing, Cozumel still good. Whale sharks arrive at Isla Mujeres Jun–Sep. From August, the Sea of Cortez comes alive: Midriff Islands offer massive sea lion colonies and schooling mobulas. September and October bring world-class diving around La Paz and Cabo Pulmo with whale sharks, hammerheads, and bull sharks on the Explore Baja route.

Dive site facts: La Paz 03 Wreck

Depth
18–21 m
Current
Moderate
Entry
Liveaboard only
Level
Beginner
Dive type
Wreck, Reef
Region / port
Mexico
Coordinates
24.3547° N, 110.3341° W

Conditions & Currents

While La Paz is generally known for strong currents, the C-59 Wreck often experiences minimal to no current, making it a relatively calm dive compared to other local sites. Visibility at the wreck usually falls between 12 to 18 meters (40 to 60 feet), providing clear views of the structure. Water temperatures hover around 25.5°C (78°F), allowing for comfortable diving. This site is typically dived as a stationary exploration, with divers able to comfortably navigate the wreck's exterior and interior. Entry is usually straightforward, and the lack of strong currents minimizes the need for specialized entry techniques, making it accessible for certified divers.

Why dive La Paz 03 Wreck from a liveaboard?

La Paz 03 Wreck is one of Mexico's signature dive sites. A liveaboard sleeps you on the water and typically offers several guided dives per day (the exact number depends on the vessel and itinerary), including dawn and night dives that day-boat operators rarely offer. You skip the daily commute back to port and reach quieter, less-crowded sites in the same region on a single trip.

Liveaboards diving La Paz 03 Wreck

These liveaboards may visit La Paz 03 Wreck on selected itineraries, the exact dive sites depend on departure, weather and conditions.

Book a liveaboard trip on the Nautilus Explorer in Mexico

Nautilus Explorer

Mexico

25 guests45 m
Book a liveaboard trip on the Valentina in Mexico

Valentina

Mexico

20 guests38 m
Book a liveaboard trip on the Rocio del Mar in Mexico

Rocio del Mar

Mexico

20 guests34 m
Book a liveaboard trip on the Nautilus Under Sea in Mexico

Nautilus Under Sea

Mexico

19 guests32 m
Book a liveaboard trip on the Nautilus Belle Amie in Mexico

Nautilus Belle Amie

Mexico

32 guests45 m
Book a liveaboard trip on the Quino del Mar in Mexico

Quino del Mar

Mexico

20 guests36 m
Book a liveaboard trip on the Nautilus Gallant Lady in Mexico

Nautilus Gallant Lady

Mexico

12 guests35 m

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7 liveaboards run the La Paz 03 Wreck route.

Three to four guided dives a day on La Paz 03 Wreck and the other signature sites in Mexico, sleeping right above the reef.