This dive site is home to the Etoile Rouge, a Russian trawler that sank in 2005, becoming one of the largest and most impressive wrecks in Dakar, Senegal. The massive vessel lies on its side, with its upper deck reaching considerable heights from the seabed and descending to parts as deep as 35 meters. Experienced divers can explore its holds, offering a challenging yet rewarding experience within an overhead environment.
The Etoile Rouge serves as an important breeding ground, attracting and sheltering a diverse array of marine life. It is teeming with numerous species of fish and mollusks, vital to Senegal's marine ecosystem. The wreck's concretions and abundant vegetation provide excellent habitats, acting as nurseries for countless fry and juveniles, making it a vibrant site for underwater observation.
The best time to visit this dive site would generally align with Senegal's dry season, offering calmer seas and potentially better visibility. Divers should be prepared for varying depths and be qualified for wreck diving, especially for penetration into the holds. While the main wreck is at 27m max, experienced freedivers could explore the shallower upper sections if conditions allow, but primary focus is on advanced scuba diving.
