Damuji Wreck Near Varadero, Cuba
Explore a shallow historic Damuji Wreck near Varadero surrounded by coral and tropical marine life
Discover the remains of the Río Damují near Carboneras, Matanzas. This shallow wreck offers divers an unusual combination of maritime history, coral growth, and Caribbean marine life.
- 🌊 Local Guide
- Safety-focused diving
- 👥 Small groups
- 🐠 Equipment Available
"Limited spots available daily"
Weck Diving in Varadero, Cuba
From $40usd
Starting dive per 1 dive
No experience needed • Small groups • Certified instructors
The Story of the Damuji shipwreck Varadero
The Río Damují was a merchant vessel that ran aground on the northern coast of Matanzas in 1970. The crew survived the accident, while the vessel gradually became part of the surrounding underwater environment.
Over the years, sections of the ship were salvaged or deteriorated, leaving a more fragmented wreck structure.
Rio Damuji aground on the coast
Today, the remaining metal sections, machinery and other wreck features have become integrated with the reef, creating a fascinating environment where maritime history meets Caribbean marine life.
Why Dive the Damuji Wreck?
A Shallow Wreck
With depths of approximately 5–12 metres, the site offers relatively shallow wreck exploration.
Wreck & Reef Life
Corals, sponges and tropical fish have made parts of the wreck and surrounding reef their home.
Underwater Photography
The combination of wreck structures and marine life provides interesting subjects for underwater photographers.
Something Different
Explore a less conventional dive site and discover a piece of local maritime history beneath the water.
Damuji Wreck Dive Profile
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- Calm conditions
- Excellent visibility
- Tropical marine life
- Perfect for underwater photography
What Can You See?
The Damuji is a partially broken-up wreck, rather than an intact ship.
Depending on conditions, divers may see:
• Sections of the hull
• Propeller and machinery
• Coral-covered metal structures
• Sponges and reef growth
• Tropical fish
• Small marine life around the wreck
• Coral formations surrounding the site
The exact marine life and visibility can vary from dive to dive.
Damuji Wreck Diving Prices
Combine the Damuji Wreck with a nearby reef dive for a more complete half-day diving experience.
1 Wreck Dive
From $40 USD per person
Wreck + Reef
2 dives — from $70 USD
Depending on the booking, your experience may include:
- ✓ Tanks and weights
- ✓ Certified dive guide
- ✓ Safety briefing
- ✓ Site orientation
- ✓ Transportation, where specified
Please confirm the final price and inclusions when booking, as transportation and dive arrangements may vary.
‘Limited spots available daily – Book in advance”
Who Can Dive the Damuji Wreck?
The shallow depth makes the Damuji an interesting option for:
Open Water Certified Divers
Suitable certification and experience are required, and the dive site will be assessed according to conditions.
Safety First
The Damuji Wreck is partially collapsed and contains sharp metal structures.
For your safety:
Sea conditions, visibility and access can change. Your local dive team will confirm whether the site is suitable on the day of your dive.
Getting to the Damuji Sallow Wreck Near Varadero
The Damuji Wreck is located near Carboneras in Matanzas, approximately 20 km from Varadero, depending on the route and departure point.
Why Dive with Scuba Vida?
Small Groups
Enjoy a more personal diving experience with fewer divers.
Local Knowledge
Our local team knows the area’s dive sites and conditions.
Safety Focused
Every dive begins with a briefing and site orientation.
Wreck + Reef
Combine wreck exploration with the marine life of the surrounding reef.
Flexible Experiences
Ask about combining the Damuji Wreck with another dive during your Varadero stay.
FAQ
Where is the Damuji Wreck?
The Damuji Wreck is located near Carboneras in Matanzas Province, approximately 20 km from Varadero.
How deep is the Damuji Wreck?
The site is approximately 5–12 metres deep, although actual depth can vary across the site.
• Coral Beach: up to 16 m (48 ft)
• Bacunayagua: up to 25 m (75 ft)
• Punta Sabanilla Wall: up to 30 m (98 ft)
• Puerto Escondido: up to 14 m (46 ft)
Your instructor will always select an appropriate dive profile based on your experience and certification.
What certification do I need?
The dive is intended for appropriately certified divers. Open Water certification or equivalent may be sufficient, depending on conditions and the dive plan.
Is the Damuji Wreck suitable for beginners?
Although the wreck is shallow, beginners without certification cannot participate in a standard certified wreck dive. Your certification, experience and the conditions on the day will determine whether the site is appropriate.
Can I enter the wreck?
No. Wreck penetration is not permitted. Some sections are unstable or partially collapsed, and there may be sharp metal.
What marine life can I see?
You may encounter tropical fish, corals, sponges and smaller reef organisms around the wreck and surrounding reef.
Can I combine the wreck with another dive?
Yes. The Wreck + Reef option combines the Damuji Wreck with another dive, subject to conditions and availability.
Trusted by nearly 200 divers on TripAdvisor
Ready to Explore the Damuji Wreck?
Discover the remains of the Río Damují and experience a unique combination of wreck history and Caribbean marine life.
Limited spots available – Reserve in advance.