The SAAS Artificial Reef: Transforming San Carlos into a Premier Dive Destination
At Dive San Carlos, we’re proud to introduce one of the most exciting developments in our region’s diving history: the SAAS (Sonoran Artificial Reef System). This ambitious project is redefining underwater exploration in San Carlos and giving divers from around the world a whole new reason to dive into the Sea of Cortez. Whether you’re a seasoned wreck diver or a curious snorkeler, the SAAS reef system offers something unforgettable just beneath the surface.
What Is the SAAS?
The SAAS—short for Sistema Arrecifal Artificial Sonorense—is a large-scale artificial reef project designed to enhance marine biodiversity, promote sustainable tourism, and provide new habitats for marine life in San Carlos. It’s composed of decommissioned naval vessels and equipment that have been safely and strategically sunk to create thriving underwater structures.
What’s Included in the Project?
- Seven retired naval ships
- Two helicopters
- One airplane
- An amphibious vehicle
- Three artillery units
These structures are being placed on a sandy seafloor in carefully selected locations, with depths that make them accessible to recreational divers and snorkelers alike.
The Sunken Fleet So Far
As of now, four vessels have been sunk as part of the SAAS project, each offering a unique dive experience:
- Santos (PO-106) – A former minesweeper sunk in 2022. At over 70 meters in length, it rests at a depth of about 52 feet and is teeming with marine life.
- Suchiate (BI-05) – This ship was added in 2024 and sits upright on a flat, sandy bottom. It’s around 180 feet long and found at roughly 50–55 feet deep.
- El Tanin – A smaller patrol vessel sunk in early 2025, resting at a shallower depth of about 42 feet. Its compact size makes it perfect for shorter dives or snorkel explorations.
- De La Fuente (PC-208) – This 110-foot vessel was sunk in April 2025 and is already showing signs of marine colonization. It sits at about 52 feet deep.
Each of these wrecks contributes something different to the overall diving experience and adds depth (literally and figuratively) to what San Carlos has to offer.
Dive San Carlos and the SAAS Reef
At Dive San Carlos, we’ve made it our mission to be at the forefront of SAAS reef exploration. Our dive guides are trained specifically on these new sites, and we are continuously updating our dive plans to showcase these growing artificial ecosystems.
We offer a full range of guided dives to the SAAS sites, customized based on your skill level and interests. Whether you want a shallow introduction to wreck diving or a full day of multi-wreck exploration, we’ve got you covered.
A Thriving Underwater Habitat
Rapid Marine Growth
Artificial reefs provide ideal conditions for reef-building organisms and fish to establish new homes. Since the first vessel was sunk, divers have observed a steady increase in marine life, including:
- Colorful schools of fish
- Moray eels and octopuses
- Crustaceans and nudibranchs
- Occasional sightings of rays and pelagic species
Wrecks like the Santos and Suchiate are now bustling with life, providing divers a glimpse into how quickly nature can reclaim and transform manmade structures.
Long-Term Benefits
Beyond the immediate visual appeal for divers, the SAAS project supports:
- Biodiversity growth and species recovery
- Coral recruitment and habitat protection
- Erosion control and sediment stability
- Eco-tourism and educational dive training
By spreading out diving activity over multiple sites, these artificial reefs also reduce pressure on natural reef systems nearby.
Exploring the SAAS Reef with Dive San Carlos
Wreck Dives for All Levels
We offer guided dives to each of the SAAS reef vessels. Here’s what to expect:
- Santos: A highlight for all experience levels with large swim-throughs and ample marine life.
- Suchiate: A great second dive or for those interested in mild penetration and open spaces.
- El Tanin: Perfect for shorter dives or snorkelers; its shallowness makes it very accessible.
- De La Fuente: Excellent for divers interested in seeing the early stages of reef development.
Specialty Courses and Training
For those wanting to take their diving to the next level, we offer the following scuba training in San Carlos:
- Wreck Diver Specialty courses
- Buoyancy workshops focused on wreck environments
- Eco-diving education on artificial reef formation
All training is conducted on-site at the SAAS reefs, giving students real-world exposure from the start.
Snorkeling the Reef
Some of the shallower structures, especially the Santos and El Tanin, can be partially viewed while snorkeling. It’s a rare opportunity to see a shipwreck from the surface, with fish schooling near the upper decks and structure shadows casting mesmerizing patterns across the seabed.
Eco-Conscious Diving
At Dive San Carlos, we use always adhere to the most eco-conscious diving practices. Our dive briefings always include eco-guidance to ensure divers interact with the reef respectfully and responsibly.
What’s Coming Next?
The SAAS project is far from complete. With 10 more installations planned, the artificial reef system will continue to grow in both size and complexity. Future deployments may include aircraft, amphibious vehicles, and additional vessels.
As more structures are added, we’ll be expanding our dive trips and updating our training programs to match. Divers who visit regularly will have the unique opportunity to witness the reef system evolve year by year.
Why Divers Choose SAAS and Dive San Carlos
- Ideal Depths: Ranging from 40 to 60 feet, making them suitable for recreational divers.
- Convenient Location: All sites are easily accessed by boat from San Carlos.
- Diverse Marine Life: See the reef grow and shift with every season.
- Experienced Dive Leaders: Our team knows these wrecks inside and out.
- Exclusive Opportunities: Be among the first to explore new reef deployments as they happen.
Tips for Your Dive Adventure
- Bring Your Camera: The wrecks offer stunning photo ops, especially with schooling fish and structural contrasts.
- Plan for Multi-Wreck Days: With several sites near each other, you can visit two or three in one outing.
- Enroll in a Specialty Course: Maximize your experience by earning a new certification while exploring the reef.
- Stay Eco-Friendly: Maintain perfect buoyancy, and avoid touching structures or marine life.
Ready to Dive the SAAS Reef?
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a return diver looking to explore something new, the SAAS Artificial Reef is the perfect reason to plan your next dive trip to San Carlos. At Dive San Carlos, we’re proud to offer guided experiences to these unique sites, blending the thrill of wreck diving with the importance of marine conservation.
We can’t wait to show you the SAAS reef and all it has to offer. Book your San Carlos dive trip with us and be a part of this incredible transformation beneath the surface.