Pasubio (Wreck)

Located off the coast of Roccella Jonica in the southern Calabrian Ionian Sea, the steamship Pasubio is an extraordinary historical wreck that attracts divers from all over the world. This Italian steamer was torpedoed and sunk by a British submarine in 1943, and today, it rests beautifully intact on the sandy bottom at a depth of 44m.

Divers are in for a treat as they descend along the rope and discover the well-preserved superstructure of the Pasubio at 35m deep. The wreck, slightly tilted on its left side, offers a captivating underwater experience. This site is popular for advanced and expert divers due to its maximum depth of 38m.

As you explore the wreck, you'll encounter an array of marine life that has made this underwater marvel their home. Large brown and golden groupers swim through the wreckage, while moray and conger eels hide within its crevices. The Pasubio also attracts amberjacks and sea breams, adding to the diversity of marine species you'll encounter during your dive.

One of the highlights of this dive is the view of the transom, where a perfectly preserved large steering wheel sits. Just below, an admiralty anchor adds to the fascination of the wreck. Moving towards the stern, you'll find the rudder blade and the three-blade propeller partially submerged in the sandy bottom. These areas are often visited by graceful groupers seeking shelter.

For a comprehensive exploration of the Pasubio, divers usually complete two separate dives. The first dive takes you from the center of the ship to the bow, allowing you to admire the intact cut of the bow and the two impressive anchors embedded in the hawse eyes. The second dive follows the descent line to explore the stern, where the collapsed bow and stern masts create additional hiding spots for marine species.

Every inch of the wreck is covered in vibrant benthic and sessile organisms, from sponges and tunicates to algae and nudibranchs. Crustaceans and echinoderms add to the rich tapestry of marine life around the wreck. The striking backdrop of thick clouds of anthias swimming around the wreck structures completes the enchanting underwater scene.

With a visibility of approximately 17m, divers can fully appreciate the historical significance and natural beauty of the Pasubio wreck. It is a mesmerizing dive that reveals intricate details, including the large holds still filled with coal, lightly covered by a thin layer of silt.

As you embark on this dive adventure, remember that the Pasubio wreck is meant for advanced and expert divers who are comfortable diving at depths of up to 38m. Located in Italy, near the coast of Roccella Jonica, this site offers a unique opportunity to explore an authentic piece of maritime history while immersing yourself in the wonders of the underwater world.