History

The 482 Cable Layer is a former Royal Navy cable-laying vessel that was intentionally scuttled off Camp Bay in August 1990 as part of Gibraltar's artificial reef programme. Its purpose was to encourage marine colonisation while also creating an interesting recreational dive site.

The wreck rests upright on a sandy seabed at a depth of approximately 17 metres. Measuring around 30 metres in length and 7 metres in width, it rises to roughly 7 metres above the seabed. The vessel is orientated with its bow facing north.

The bow has a broad, almost square profile, leading into a spacious open cargo hold. Along the sides of the hold are the original storage racks, while nearby is a caged paint locker that still contains paint tins. Forward of the hold are two small cabins that can be explored before returning along the opposite side of the vessel.

Towards the stern are the vessel's winching equipment and the main accommodation block. Inside are the remains of sanitary facilities, including a shower, wash basin and toilet compartments. Immediately aft of the superstructure stands the large cable drum once used during the vessel's operational service.

After more than three decades underwater, the wreck has become heavily colonised by marine life and now supports a rich variety of fish and other marine organisms, making it one of Gibraltar's most popular artificial reefs.

A short distance to the south-east lies Batty's Barge, another intentionally submerged vessel. Part of its hull and deck structure have collapsed, creating a large open interior that also provides habitat for an increasing range of marine species.

Further Reading

Those wishing to learn more about Gibraltar's underwater heritage are encouraged to read Underwater Gibraltar: A Guide to the Rock’s Submerged Sites, by Phil Smith and Darren Fa, which provides a comprehensive account of the Rock's submerged archaeological sites and artificial reefs. Copies are available from the Gibraltar National Museum and selected booksellers.

Link to Underwater Gibraltar

482 engine room (Shaun Yeo).

482 ladder section (Shaun Yeo).

482 barge (Shaun Yeo).

Batty's Barge interior (Shaun Yeo).

Batty's Barge reef formation (Shaun Yeo).