Draga Wreck, Pula: A submerged sand dredge

The Draga wreck lies southwest of Pula, a grounded work vessel once used for sand extraction, now an artificial reef. This cargo vessel, constructed of stone, measures 25 meters in length and 6 meters in width. It sits upright on the seabed, its structure largely intact despite its sinking in the 1960s due to a breach in its bow from rough weather and overloading. The wreck is close enough to shore for a relatively short boat ride, making it an accessible deep dive.

The dive profile descends directly to the wreck, which rests at a minimum depth of 34 meters, with its deepest parts extending to 37 meters. As you approach the wreck from above, you'll first discern the outline of the vessel, before its full form becomes clear. The ambient light at this depth shifts, creating an atmospheric setting ideal for wreck exploration. Navigating the wreck's exterior, you can follow its full length and width, appreciating the engineering of this former working boat.

Life around the Draga is abundant, drawn to the cover and substrate the wreck provides. You will encounter resident marine species throughout your dive. Eels frequently inhabit the nooks and crannies of the wreck, while scorpionfish (Scorpaena scrofa) camouflage themselves against the structure, waiting for prey. Lobsters and crabs scuttle within the darker recesses, and it’s not uncommon to spot catsharks (Scyliorhinus canicula) patrolling the perimeter of the wreck, especially in quieter sections.

Beyond the larger inhabitants, the Draga is also home to vast colonies of pennatula, or sea pens, which sway gently in any slight current surrounding the wreck. These colonial organisms add a vibrant, textured layer to the otherwise industrial structure, creating a stark contrast and enhancing the visual interest of the site. Observing how these different species interact with and colonize the wreck provides a continuous narrative throughout the dive, highlighting the transformation from working vessel to living reef.