Breathtaking dives: the submerged bomber off Calvi

Among the various diving opportunities off the coast of Corsica, the visit to the B-17 off the coast of Calvi satisfies the most demanding divers because the seabed combines the exciting vision of a wreck. At about 28 meters of depth an American bomber lies, in fact, crashed in 1944.

The bomber

Also known as the Flying Fortress, the Boeing B-17 was a heavy bomber employed by the United States Air Force during the Second World War. This type of aircraft was mainly used during strategic bombing campaigns targeting the industrial, civil and military plants of Nazi Germany. Many of these bombers, considered infallible war machines, were shot down during the conflict and one of these crashed in the Mediterranean just off the coast of Calvi.

History

The incident involving the B-17 dates back to February 14, 1944, when the American aircraft was forced to try to escape from the German fighter to Corsica. The aircraft was struck several times and landed in the seas off Calvi and the pilot and crew managed to abandon it and save just a moment before the waves swallowed and deposited on the seabed, where it still lies. A popular destination with divers who consider this one of the most exciting and diving to do in the seas of Corsica.

The dive

The plane lies between 23 and 28 meters deep, has remained virtually intact and there are no nets or lines that complicate the view. Furthermore, visibility in this sea and at these depths is almost always very good. The plane has preserved almost all its parts, today perfect habitat of sponges and colorful fish species. You can easily recognize the engine blades, the cockpit, the seats and the controls: a guaranteed show. The snout is damaged, but it is possible to enter the wreck passing from the tail. And to enter the wreck you must go from what remains of the tail. The advice, even if you are an expert, is always to immerse yourself in a group or participate in diving organized by the sub-centers of the place.

How to get

Calvi can be reached from Bastia in about 2 hours by car, if you are attracted to this dive, all you have to do is look for a ferry to Corsica, embark cars and equipment and leave!