Black Bart

Black Bart is an artificial-reef wreck dive centered on the intact steel hull of a former offshore supply vessel. The upright wreck is the dive's primary attraction and is heavily encrusted with hard and soft corals and sponges, attracting abundant reef fish and making it one of the area's most popular and frequently dived sites. The wreck sits upright on a sandy bottom with the main hull at about 75-85 ft; the wheelhouse begins around 40 ft, the upper deck is near 66 ft, and open cargo holds extend to roughly 80 ft. The site is boat access (about a 20-minute trip from shore). Conditions are generally moderate with visibility often measured in tens of feet but occasionally reduced below thermoclines, water temperatures are warm (typically in the 68-84°F range), and there are usually no strong currents or surge. Standard recreational SCUBA is sufficient and the site is commonly used for training and photography; the only noted hazards are normal wreck-penetration risks when swimming through the wheelhouse and holds. The vessel was the Vulcano del Golfo, built in 1977 and intentionally scuttled in 1993 as an artificial reef and memorial; the intact steel hull remains upright and offers swim-throughs and interior exploration.