le Grec
Discover the Greek wreck, one of the most stunning dive sites in the Var! As the little brother of the famous Donator wreck, it boasts the same remarkable location and a vibrant marine ecosystem. This dive is an absolute must for advanced and expert divers seeking an unforgettable underwater adventure!
Prepare to be amazed by the abundance of fan corals that have claimed every nook and cranny of the Greek wreck. Just like the Donator, once your dive lights illuminate the surroundings, you'll be greeted by captivating gorgons.
Let's delve into the history of the Greek wreck. Constructed in 1912 by the esteemed Dundee SB Ltd. shipyards, the Sagona, as it was originally known, measured 54 meters in length and 8.5 meters in width. With a tonnage of 808 tons, it changed hands several times, including periods under the ownership of Reid Newfoudland Co., the British Government, Culliford's Association Lines, and Zanatti SS. Co. Ltd.
Tragically, on December 3, 1945, the Sagona encountered a floating mine, resulting in its rapid sinking with the bow severely damaged. The incident claimed the lives of two individuals, while one sailor went missing. The Greek, as we know it today, derived its name from the discovery of Greek-language documents found on the wreck when navy divers were sent to inspect it. This led to the renaming of the Sagona and has since become the more recognized name for this stunning dive site.
Contrary to the Donator wreck, the Greek is split into two distinct pieces, with ample space separating them. The descent into the wreck is in open water, allowing divers to explore its captivating features. Commence your exploration from the stern, paying close attention to the propeller, which lies at a depth of 47 meters, making it the deepest part of the wreck. Ascending slightly to 40 meters, you'll encounter the covered dune as indicated on the diagram. Further ahead, the open hatch grants access to the empty and less interesting hold. Before departing this section, take a moment to admire the immense winch of the Greek, a sight to behold.
Continuing towards the break, you'll reach the superstructures housing the cabins and saloons, inviting you to venture inside. Traverse the sumptuous gangways at 35 meters, feeling immersed in awe, until you arrive at the chimney. Despite its damage, the chimney still commands respect with its imposing size, leaving divers feeling dwarfed in its presence. On the starboard side, two coat racks, one facing the chimney, provide additional points of interest. Proceeding to the break offers an opportunity to enter the wreck, though it's crucial to be cautious of the associated risks. The bow, located 60-80 meters away from the stern in a northerly direction, lies at the same depth as the propeller, offering divers a remarkable underwater experience. The mast, reminiscent of the Donator, now rests on the port side. While the fauna residing here is noteworthy, this section may not hold significant interest for divers. It is worth noting that the full wreck exploration is dependent on current conditions, diver expertise, and available air supply.
Immersed in the pristine waters of France, you'll find the Greek wreck just a few hundred meters southeast of Porquerolles. With a maximum depth of 42 meters and a visibility of 20 meters, this dive site in Metropolitan France guarantees an extraordinary underwater journey.
This optimized content highlights the appeal of the Greek wreck, alerts divers to the recommended experience level, emphasizes the historical significance, and incorporates relevant geographical details.
Last updated: 12 mo. ago - Oct 3, 2023