Just a short boat ride from La Paz, near Espíritu Santo Island, lies one of the most interesting dive sites in the Sea of Cortez: the Fang Ming shipwreck. More than just an artificial reef, the Fang Ming holds a unique story that blends marine conservation, international history, and underwater adventure. Whether you're a diver, explorer, or ocean lover, this shipwreck has a tale worth knowing.
In 1999, the Fang Ming became the first vessel in Mexican history to be intentionally scuttled to create an artificial reef. This milestone marked a major step toward active marine habitat restoration in Baja California Sur.
Originally, the ship was a Chinese fishing and smuggling vessel intercepted near Cabo San Lucas. It was involved in transporting undocumented migrants across the Pacific, leading to its confiscation by Mexican authorities.
After its seizure, the Fang Ming sat unused for years. Eventually, local dive groups, environmental organizations, and the Mexican Navy collaborated to strip and clean the ship, preparing it for safe underwater placement.
The wreck sits at a comfortable depth of about 18 meters (60 feet), making it accessible for both beginner and experienced divers. Clear visibility and mild currents offer ideal conditions for exploration.
At roughly 185 feet, the Fang Ming is large enough to explore room by room. Divers can swim past cargo holds, hallways, and passageways now flourishing with sea life.
Over the years, the wreck has become a thriving artificial reef. Expect to see:
Green sea turtles resting inside the ship
Schools of snapper and grunts
Angelfish, pufferfish, and colorful reef dwellers
Occasionally, curious sea lions stopping by to play
Because the wreck has only been underwater since 1999, its coral growth is still in early development. This gives divers a rare look at the evolution of a reef-forming ecosystem in real time.
Another scuttled ship, the Lapas 03, lies just a short distance away and is often included in the same dive trip. Together, they form a unique underwater exploration circuit.
Researchers, dive instructors, and marine biologists frequently study the wreck due to its accessibility and ecological importance. It’s a living classroom for conservation and reef regeneration.
With history, marine life, and calm water conditions, the Fang Ming has become a bucket-list dive for anyone visiting the Sea of Cortez. For many divers, it’s a highlight of their entire Baja adventure.
If you're visiting La Paz, you can dive the Fang Ming with Baja Charters, who offer ocean excursions, guided dives, snorkeling, and luxury day cruises around Espíritu Santo Island. Their crew knows the region intimately, helping you experience the wreck safely and meaningfully.
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