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The Wreck of the Aristo ( Iristo )
 Bermuda
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Max Depth: 41-50ft/12-15m
Average Viz: Over 150ft/46m
Entry Type: Boat
Aquatic Life: Plenty To See
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Rating: 3.00 by 1 divers
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The Wreck of the Aristo ( Iristo ) is a boat accessible salt water dive site, located in Bermuda. This dive site has an average rating of 3.00 out of 5 from 1 scuba divers. The maximum depth is 41-50ft/12-15m. The average visibility is over 150ft/46m.
1937 - Norwegian Steamer
The Aristo was a most unlucky ship, wrecked because of another shipwreck. Unfamiliar with Bermuda’s expensive reef system, her captain was surprised by the sight of the The Cristobal Colon and so ordered his ship to turn towards what he thought was a vessel in a channel and underway, so he decided to follow her. The course change caused The Aristo to crash into a submerged reef structure near North Rock. She was towed off the reef, but began taking on water quickly. The rescuers decided to prevent her sinking it would be best if The Aristo was taken back to the reef until the following morning, when an attempt to tow her to St George’s Harbour would be made. The rescue attempt succeeded in pulling her clear of the reef. She traveled about one mile east of North East Breaker, where she subsequently sank in 1937.
The Aristo, a 250 foot long Norwegian Freighter, was carrying a cargo of gasoline drums, a fire engine and a steamroller. The wreck lies in 50 feet of water, with her bow coming within 18 feet of the surface. Points of interest include her engines, boilers, propeller shaft and the fire engine. She was towed off the reef, but began taking on water quickly.
As a result of this accident, it was decided to remove the funnel and a mast from The Cristobal Colon, in the hope of preventing another accident. The bow rises to within 18 feet of the surface, hovering over the bow and looking back towards the stern gives you a spectacular view of the whole wreck (visibility permitting, 250 foot wreck!!!). The whole wreck is almost fully intact, although it has begun to collapse upon itself. The engine and boilers are visible. The Prop shaft leads you to the stern, where (not surprisingly!!!), the prop is, sitting upright with one blade broken off.
The remains of a fire engine that was being carried as cargo can still be found, you need to look closely as nearly 60 years of heavy coral growth has disguised the fire engine considerably. There are also two large anchors visible. This wreck is considered by many as the best in Bermuda and is home to vast assortment of marine life. Bermuda reputably has over 10,000 species of marine creatures in her waters. This is an excellent spot to see a large proportion of them. Look out for the ever-present schools of Horse-eyed Jacks and the occasional Pompano or Permit. The east-end is often a great place for game fish, just ask your local fisherman.
It really isn’t necessary to venture too far off the wreck, again staying within site of the wreck makes navigation significantly easier. Under ledges and deck plates is a great place to find lobster and the occasional sleeping octopus. The more friendly reef fish are here is vast quantities. Look out for Bermuda Chub in large numbers.
REMEMBER.... THE REEF IS FRAGILE! PLEASE DO NOT TOUCH OR TREAD ON LIVING CORAL.