Beneath the depths of Banderas Bay lies a hidden treasure—an artificial reef formed by abandoned vessels that have rested here for over 15 years. Located between 50 and 140 feet below the surface, this underwater graveyard is home to up to 14 sunken vessels, intentionally placed to foster marine life.
So among them are sailboats, pangas, fishing boats, and speedboats, but the crown jewel of the site is the Princesa Vallarta.
The Journey of the Princesa Vallarta
Once a proud tour vessel operated by Cruceros Princesa, the ship was a beloved mode of transportation for visitors exploring the bay in the late 20th century. However, on February 16, 2017, after facing strong winds and rough seas, the ship ran aground just outside the entrance of Marina Vallarta. Despite extensive salvage attempts, its age and structural damage made restoration impossible.
Over the next several months, authorities carefully removed hazardous contaminants and prepared the vessel for its final voyage.
Port officials and a visionary hotel entrepreneur relocated and intentionally sank the Princesa Vallarta on October 24, 2017, creating a new artificial reef. This project helped ease some of the pressure on Los Arcos, one of the area’s most popular dive spots.
Diving the Site: An Unforgettable Experience
Located just 200 meters off the coast of Playas Gemelas, this dive site sits at an 85-foot depth on a sandy bottom. The Princesa Vallarta now rests alongside other sunken vessels, providing a thriving habitat for marine life. A dive site recommended only for experienced and certified deep divers.
The ship’s large windows and doors may seem inviting, divers are advised to avoid penetrating the wreck. The interior, now claimed by mollusks, poses risks with sharp edges that could injure divers or damage equipment. Instead, exploring the exterior offers a rewarding experience, especially with a powerful dive lamp to illuminate interior details through the windows.
For photography enthusiasts, the ship’s bow, facing west, offers an incredible photo opportunity when visibility is clear. Its well-preserved propellers also provide striking underwater images.
Marine Life: The True Residents of the Reef
While divers visit the site for just a brief moment, the true inhabitants of this underwater haven include a diverse range of marine species.
Therefore encounters with sea turtles, including Hawksbill, Green, and Olive Ridley varieties, are common, particularly near the wrecks positioned farther west. On rare occasions, Goliath groupers can be spotted, their elusive nature making each sighting special. The site is also home to Argus and jewel moray eels, as well as hundreds of tropical fish that create a dazzling display of movement and color.
One unforgettable moment was the sighting of a giant diamond ray, spanning an impressive 12 to 15 feet, resting in the sand just in front of the ship’s bow—a breathtaking reminder of the wonders hidden beneath the waves.
A Call for Respect and Conservation
This thriving ecosystem is still forming and deserves our respect and protection. So spear fishers are urged to refrain from hunting in this area, as preserving its delicate balance ensures its longevity for marine life and future divers alike.
The Princesa Vallarta wreck is more than just a sunken ship—it is a sanctuary where the ocean reclaims what was once artificially made, transforming it into something profoundly beautiful. For those fortunate enough to visit, it’s an experience that serves as a humbling reminder of the ocean’s power and grace.
