The wrecks of Lake Garda

Lake Garda, with its endless outdoor activities, offers a vacation full of fun, culture, and relaxation. The beauty of the lake is visible to all. But we want to tell you what many people may not know.

At Malcesine, and many other places in Lake Garda, there are some old relics hidden beneath the surface of the water. Fishing boats, pleasure boats, vehicles, and even military ordnance rest undisturbed, after sinking in different periods, in the fresh water of the lake.

Dives to discover and study the wrecks of Lake Garda

The Underwater Instrumental Research Team of the Garda Volunteer Group reconstructs the stories of the many wrecks found, and identifies new remains that are still being discovered today.

If you are a diver, you know how special it is to experience the excitement that the underwater world has to offer. And if you add being around wrecks to that, the resulting experience is one that fills you with wonder, mystery, and excitement. You will feel like an adventurer discovering hidden treasure.

Each wreck found, in fact, holds a unique story to be discovered, and having the chance to reach it and to admire it is a real privilege.

If you wish to have a fascinating underwater adventure, dive around the famous wrecks of Lake Garda.

Swimming in front of a sunken ancient ruin is like being where time stands still.
In the depths of Lake Garda, you can explore several shipwrecks that represent real underwater treasures.

The Wreck of Malcesine

The Roma motor fishing vessel is in Val di Sogno and is well preserved, despite being in the depths of the lake for so many years.

Sunk in the 1990s, it became known as the Roma Wreck, one of the best-known underwater attractions in Lake Garda. Actually, the boat’s name is Delsey, but after seeing the writing Rome on the side of the boat, all visitors started calling it that.

Today its 17-metre-long structure lies in a navigational position on a seabed of about 38 metres, offering divers a surreal panorama.

While navigating around the wreck, numerous fish such as perch, pike and trout can be spotted darting through the shadows.

This type of diving tourism in Malcesine is consequently an interesting opportunity to explore the biodiversity that this part of Lake Garda offers.

It is necessary to plan your diving outing in advance. Just as you should obtain information to know all the features of the dive, to respect local restrictions and to always make safety a priority.

A high level of skill and experience is required to visit the Malcesine Wreck.

Small tip: When you have chosen your favourite place to go diving, contact a school or diving centre at Lake Garda to get more detailed information. If you are a novice, however, you will find many professional schools you can rely on to learn a recreational and privileged sport.