This dive site is the wreck of the Mohawk Deer, a merchant ship that met its fate in 1967. While being towed towards La Spezia, a severe gale caused her tow line to shear, resulting in a dramatic crash against the wall of the Portofino Promontory. The wreck now rests at a maximum depth of 31 meters, with an average depth of approximately 15 meters, offering divers a fascinating exploration of its structure as an artificial reef.
The Mohawk Deer wreck has transformed into a vibrant underwater ecosystem, providing an ideal habitat for abundant marine life. Divers can expect to encounter large snappers, which find shelter within the wreck's interior, alongside impressive resident groupers. A myriad of smaller fish species also densely populate the site, contributing to the rich biodiversity surrounding the sunken vessel.
This popular wreck is a key highlight for divers visiting the Portofino region. The Mediterranean summer and early autumn months typically offer the best diving conditions with calmer seas and warmer waters. Divers should possess good buoyancy control due to the nature of wreck diving. Freedivers can also enjoy the shallower sections, observing the teeming fish life and the upper parts of the wreck.
