Dive the A.C.E.: Exploring Dana Point’s Premier Wreck Dive
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
4–6 hours
Fitness Level
Good physical fitness for boat transfers and multiple dives at depth required.
Overview
Explore the A.C.E. wreck off Dana Point, California, a 58-foot vessel resting at 113 feet deep, now teeming with marine life. This advanced dive offers exclusive access aboard the Riviera, blending history, marine beauty, and expert guidance.
Dive the A.C.E.
Ages 10+ • 4 Hours • Must be at least Advanced Open Water or higher!
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About This Adventure
Dive into history with the A.C.E. wreck, a sunken 58-foot vessel now teeming with marine life at 113 feet deep. This exclusive, advanced dive offers a thrilling underwater exploration, ensuring a safe and comfortable experience aboard the Riviera, limited to just 10 divers. Discover the ocean's secrets in style!
Explore the A.C.E
Duration
4 Hours
Please arrive 45 MINUTES prior to dive start time.
MUST BE ADVANCED OPEN WATER CERTIFIED OR HIGHER, OTHERWISE WILL BE ASKED TO RESCHEDULE OR SIGN UP FOR THE ADVANCED COURSE.
About
"Early on Nov. 26, 2005, the A.C.E., a 58-foot drum seiner, was en route to the Dana Point Harbor after a night of bait fishing. Offshore winds, which kicked up a sharp and quick chop producing vertically shaped waves breaking only seconds apart, slammed the boat relentlessly until it finally capsized. The vessel had already been listing from a leaking deck hatch." - Scott Marshutz
That was when she sank. Now the A.C.E. is home to thousands of underwater organisms as it lies in rest at 113 feet.
This dive is reserved for experienced divers only. Sitting at 113ft, this destination requires only the most comfortable divers on board.
The Riviera is a 40-foot customized vessel that is certified by the United State Coast Guard for 30 passengers. For your diving comfort, we only take 10 divers per trip. With 30 life vests, on board oxygen and AED, and many other safety features, the Riviera will be your choice for a safe and fun diving environment!
Tanks and weights are available on the boat as well as snacks, water and other refreshments.
Adventure Tips
Advanced dive skills required
This wreck sits at 113 feet and requires divers to have advanced certification and comfort with deep dives.
Bring surface marker buoys
Use SMBs for safety and to alert the boat during ascents in this deeper dive environment.
Check local weather conditions
Ocean conditions can shift quickly; verify weather and water state before your booking.
Respect marine life
Maintain neutral buoyancy and avoid touching the wreck or wildlife to protect the ecosystem.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Garibaldi fish
- Rockfish
History
The A.C.E. wreck is a deliberately sunk vessel that has become a vital artificial reef and dive attraction since the early 2000s.
Conservation
Diving operators follow strict environmental protocols to minimize impact, encouraging divers to respect underwater habitats and reduce gear contact.
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Adventure Hotspots in Dana Point
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Advanced dive computer
Essential for monitoring depth, time, and decompression limits on this deep wreck dive.
Surface marker buoy (SMB)
Critical for safe ascents and signaling to the boat in open water.
Full wetsuit (7mm recommended)
Keeps divers warm in the variable Pacific waters around Dana Point.
spring;fall;winter;summer specific
Underwater torch
Helpful for exploring shadowed areas of the wreck and spotting marine life details.