We then come to the large central hold, which allows access to the ship’s lower decks; access which can be difficult due to the large quantity of sediment accumulated during the many years since her sinking. The first deck that we meet is probably the one that allows the easiest access to the first class cabins.
Continuing towards the stern we come to the funnel which is now completely collapsed across the starboard side of the ship; through the large hole caused by its collapse it is possible, if difficult, to gain access to the boiler room.
Below the stern mast there is a large skylight made of large doors having one of each four-brass portholes. Through one of these doors, dislodged from its mountings, it is possible to reach a large open space created by the collapse of the lower decks. The light of the sun filtered by the portholes hints at the possibilities for beautiful photographs.
We descend until we see a vaguely outlined narrow stairwell, which leads to the engine room. Aft of the mast, the stern is connected to the rest of the ship only by the starboard side due a large hole made by one of the torpedoes, which sank the ship.
Towards the surface alongside the stern mast, it is possible to see that it is completely surrounded by shoals of anthias, which make the scene even more fascinating. The final surprise the wreck reveals to us are the blocks once used for loading and unloading the ship, completely colonized by madreporas.
The whole wreck is covered by an enormous quantity of benthic organisms, which have surely found an ideal habitat on the ship's structures, thanks also the water turbidity which often means a high production rate for nutritional material. The Aderno is also an important refuge for the reproduction of many species of fishes, for this reason it is a favorite place for local fishermen who sometimes lose their nets when they get driven onto the wreck. The possible presence of ghost nets is one amongst the many reasons why it is necessary to approach this dive with a great deal of caution.