Wreck le bananier (Alice Robert)

• 42 ° 35 ′ 22 ″ North and 3 ° 07 ′ 46 ″ is
• Depth: 38 m bridges - Background 47 m
• Orientation: North - South. The bow to the north.
• ACCEssiBle from level 2 framed

Located off Port-Vendres, the banana wreck is a remarkable diving site, steeped in maritime history. This former fruit cargo cargo, now based on seabed, offers divers a unique immersion in an exceptional underwater heritage

Characteristics of the wreckage

• History : Le Bananier was an 83-meter-long, 14-meter-beam fruit cargo ship, intended for transporting bananas.
  Requisitioned, it became the German escort vessel SG11 and was based in Port-Vendres. It was torpedoed on June 2, 1944, by the British submarine HMS Ultor.
• Structure : The wreck is broken into two sections: the forward two-thirds and the aft third, lying approximately 150 meters to the south at a depth of 54 meters.
  The forward section, which is most often dived, lies at a depth of 38 to 47 meters. The aft section, about 150 meters further south, is deeper, at around 54 meters.
  The ship sustained significant damage during the attack, and the two parts of the wreck are separated but still clearly visible underwater. Divers can explore the forward section with its partially intact superstructure and the aft section, where elements such as winches and rails are still in place.
• Location : Situated at a depth of 54 meters, the Bananier wreck is accessiblessiexperienced divers, particularly those trained for deep dives. Underwater visibility can vary depending on weather conditions and currents, but it is generally sufficient for detailed exploration.
• Marine Life : The wreck has become a rich artificial habitat for marine life. Divers can observe a variety of fish, crustaceans, and sometimes even rarer species. The crevices and nooks of the wreck are often colonized by anemones, sponges, and algae, adding color and life to the site.
• Access and Safety : Diving on the Bananier wreck is recommended for divers with significant deep diving experience. Conditions can vary, and it is essential to adhere to safety practices and plan the dive accordingly. Thorough preparation and the use of appropriate equipment, including underwater lights for exploring the wreck's interior, are strongly recommended.