The S-61 is a Daphné-class submarine, a design originally developed by the French Navy in the 1960s.
The submarine weighs approximately 860 tons when surfaced and over 1,000 tons when submerged.
It features a distinct 'Dolphin' emblem on its conning tower, reflecting its Spanish name, 'Delfín'.
The submarine is powered by diesel-electric engines that allowed for silent underwater operation.
The vessel was officially decommissioned by the Spanish Navy in 2003 before being donated to Torrevieja.
During its active service, the submarine could accommodate a crew of approximately 50 sailors.
The S-61 Delfín is a decommissioned Daphne-class submarine serving as a floating museum docked in the Port of Torrevieja. It was the first vessel of the Spanish Navy to be converted into a museum ship, arriving in the harbor in 2004. The interior preserves the authentic living and working quarters of the crew, including torpedo rooms, sonar stations, and the captain's quarters. Visitors walk through the narrow corridors and hatches, gaining insight into the claustrophobic conditions endured by sailors during the Cold War era. The vessel remains moored alongside the Albatros III patrol boat, which is part of the same maritime museum complex. The submarine was built in France in 1973 and served the Spanish Navy for over three decades before its retirement. It is maintained by the Torrevieja City Council and the Ministry of Defense. Signage throughout the interior explains the function of various instruments and control panels.
The view from the wooden promenade dock capturing the entire length of the submarine's hull against the marina backdrop.
Wear flat, closed-toe shoes as you will need to step over high metal thresholds and descend steep, ladder-like hatches.
If you are prone to claustrophobia, consider viewing the vessel from the exterior deck rather than the interior passage.
Combine your visit with the neighboring Albatros III patrol boat, as a single ticket typically covers both vessels.
Do not attempt to visit if you have mobility issues, as the internal hatches and narrow ladders are not wheelchair accessible.
Closed on Mondays and typically Tuesdays; hours are subject to change during local holidays or severe weather conditions.
Visitors must follow a strict one-way path through the vessel; touching control panels and levers is prohibited.
