Ship graveyard of Nouadhibou

Over 300 deteriorating vessels, including fishing trawlers, cargo ships, and naval cruisers, rest in the shallow waters along the Nouadhibou coastline.

The practice of abandoning ships in Nouadhibou intensified during the 1980s when local authorities accepted payments from vessel owners seeking to avoid proper dismantling costs.

Local salvage workers extract valuable materials from the abandoned vessels, creating an informal economy that supports numerous families in Nouadhibou.

Visitors can observe the collection of vessels from various vantage points along the shoreline or arrange boat tours through local operators in Nouadhibou.

The decaying vessels have formed artificial reefs beneath the water surface, creating new habitats for marine life and supporting the local fishing industry.

Location: Nouadhibou

GPS coordinates: 20.89944,-17.02583

Latest update: May 14, 2025 18:09