Essential Diving Information
Everything you need to know about diving in Madeira's pristine waters
Water Temperature
18-24°C
Year-round diving comfort
Warmest May-October
Visibility
15-30m
Excellent underwater clarity
Best in summer months
Best Season
May-September
Optimal diving conditions
Winter diving available
Certification Required
Open Water
Minimum PADI/SSI level
Beginner courses available
Verified Operators
RNAAT Licensed
All centers officially certified
Safety standards enforced
Group Sizes
2-6 divers
Small groups for safety
Personal attention guaranteed
Safety First
All operators maintain strict safety protocols including daily equipment checks, emergency oxygen, and certified dive masters with local knowledge.
- Insurance coverage required
- Emergency action plans
- Regular equipment maintenance
Emergency Contact
Maritime Police: 112
Hyperbaric Chamber: Funchal Hospital
All operators carry emergency oxygen and communication devices
Certified Diving Operators
RNAAT-licensed diving centers with verified safety standards and professional instruction
Choosing Your Diving Operator
What to Look For
- • RNAAT license verification (mandatory in Portugal)
- • PADI or SSI certification for instructors
- • Small group sizes for personalized attention
- • Modern, well-maintained equipment
- • Clear safety protocols and emergency procedures
Booking Tips
- • Book 2-3 days in advance during peak season
- • Confirm certification requirements for your chosen sites
- • Ask about equipment rental and Nitrox availability
- • Check weather conditions before your dive day
- • Bring your certification card and logbook
Premier Dive Sites in Madeira
Explore Madeira's underwater treasures - from protected marine reserves to historic wrecks, each site offers unique encounters with Atlantic marine life.
Garajau Partial Marine Reserve
Madeira's flagship diving location and protected marine area with exceptional biodiversity and crystal-clear waters. The reserve offers both shore and boat diving options.
Afonso Cerqueira Wreck
Historic Portuguese Navy vessel sunk in 2016 to create an artificial reef. Now home to abundant marine life and a popular site for underwater competitions.
Ponta de São Lourenço
Dramatic underwater landscape at Madeira's eastern tip featuring rare coral formations, caves, and exceptional marine biodiversity.
Lavafinger (Dedo de Lava)
Unique volcanic rock formation creating an underwater pinnacle with swim-throughs and abundant marine life.
Arena
Sandy bottom dive site perfect for training and night diving, with interesting rock formations and good marine life.
Baixa do Meio
Deep underwater seamount on Madeira's south coast, known for pelagic encounters and challenging conditions.
Important Safety Information
• All sites require valid diving certification
• Weather conditions can change rapidly
• Always dive with a certified local operator
• Marine life encounters are not guaranteed
• Respect protected marine areas
• Emergency: 112 (Portuguese Emergency Services)
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the most common questions about diving in Madeira
About Madeira Diving Directory
Your trusted source for verified diving operators and comprehensive dive site information in Madeira
Local Expertise & Authority
RNAAT Verified Operators
All diving centers verified through official Portuguese tourism registry
Local Guide L6 Credential
Curated by certified local diving expert with 15+ years experience
Comprehensive Site Database
Detailed information on 15+ certified diving locations with GPS coordinates
Real-Time Updates
Current conditions, operator availability, and seasonal recommendations
Our Methodology
- Direct verification of PADI/SSI certifications
- On-site inspection of safety equipment and protocols
- Regular updates from local diving community
- Cross-reference with maritime authorities
Data Sources
Visit Madeira, RNAAT Database, PADI/SSI Directories, Local Maritime Authorities, Diving Community Reviews
Important Disclaimer
This directory provides information about diving operators and sites for educational purposes. We are not a booking platform - all reservations must be made directly with operators. Diving conditions can change rapidly due to weather and sea conditions. Always verify current conditions and safety protocols with your chosen operator before diving. All operators listed maintain current RNAAT licenses and PADI/SSI certifications.
Contact
Need more information? Contact us or speak directly with operators
Contact Information
Important Note
We are an informational directory about diving in Madeira. For bookings and specific information about prices and availability, contact the dive centers listed on our site directly.