Le Tell Wreck, Ramatuelle: Shallow Coastal Cargo Dive

Le Tell lies off Cap Camarat, a scattered wreck that was once a 76.60-meter coastal cargo ship. Sunk on October 25, 1913, during a strong easterly wind, the ship initially obstructed shipping channels as it came to rest sideways. To clear the passage, cannons were used, dislocating the vessel and spreading its remains across numerous rock formations. What you encounter today is not a coherent hull, but a wide field of debris and structural fragments.

The dive profile for Le Tell is relatively shallow, beginning at a minimum depth of 5 meters and extending down to 18 meters at its deepest points. As you descend, the history of its deliberate destruction becomes clear; the site is characterized by an extensive debris field rather than an intact structure. This scattering, however, creates numerous hiding spots and micro-habitats within the wreck’s former components, which are now seamlessly integrated with the surrounding rocky seabed.

Within the broken sections of Le Tell, you will find a resident population of marine life. Groupers, both juvenile and adult, have made the wreck their home, often observed patrolling between the metal plates and cargo remains. Moray eels and conger eels also inhabit the crevices, visible to those who take the time to look closely into the shadowed areas. The site offers a good opportunity to observe these species in a sheltered environment, using the wreck as both shelter and hunting ground.

Beyond the wreck's structure, schools of brown meagre (Sciaena umbra) are frequently seen moving across the site. The original cargo of cement sacks from the ship's 1913 sinking is still present and dispersed among the debris, forming artificial reefs that further enrich the underwater landscape. These scattered elements, combined with the natural rock formations, provide an intricate environment that supports a diverse range of Mediterranean fauna.

While the depths are well within recreational limits, the nature of a scattered wreck means careful navigation is required to appreciate the full extent of the site. The visibility at Le Tell is generally good, allowing for clear views of the wreck parts and the marine life that congregates around them. This combination of accessible depth, clear water, and rich biodiversity makes Le Tell a site where you can take your time to explore the details of both the wreck and its inhabitants.