Zaida Wreck

Zaida Wreck: Three sunken dhows teeming with marine life

Boat Access
13m Avg Depth
27m Max Depth

About this dive site

This dive site is the Zaida Wreck, a fascinating dive experience in Madagascar. Initially, a single dhow carrying sand sank in 2004. Six months later, it was already a haven for marine life, prompting the sinking of two more wrecks nearby to further enhance the biodiversity and create a more complex dive environment. The site is characterized by the three wrecks, now forming a unique artificial reef, offering opportunities for exploration through the vessels' interiors and around their structures.

The abundant marine life found at the Zaida Wreck includes a variety of fish species, such as scorpionfish, moray eels, crocodilefish, stonefish, snappers, barracuda, jacks, and tazard. Divers can expect to encounter a rich tapestry of underwater inhabitants. The wrecks themselves provide ample habitat and attract fish schools, offering opportunities for both macro and wide-angle photography.

The best time to visit the Zaida Wreck is likely during the dry season (May to October) in Madagascar, when visibility is generally better and the weather conditions are more favorable for diving. Divers should be aware of potential currents that can be moderate, and proper dive planning and the use of a dive guide is always recommended. It's not suitable for snorkeling or freediving due to the depth and wreck exploration aspects. Proper buoyancy control is essential to avoid damaging the wrecks and the surrounding ecosystem.

Diving

Site Ratings

Big Marine Life Good
Macro Marine Life Very Good
Landscape Quality Excellent
Water Visibility Very Good Viz
Famousness Local Secret

Plan Your Visit

wreckdrift divefishmoray eelcrocodile fishstone fishsnapperbarracudajackfishmadagascar

Marine Life

ScorpionfishMoray eelCrocodilefishStonefishSnapperBarracudaJackfishTazard

Things to Note

Difficulty:

Intermediate

Moderate depth and potential currents.

Hazards:
depthcurrentsmarine life
Current Strength:

Moderate

Loading reviews...