Beginner
Garajau Nature Reserve
Flagship marine reserve, famous groupers, photography paradise
Caniço / Garajau
Depth: 11-30m depth
Habituated dusky groupers swim up to diversProtected marine reserve with rich biodiversity
View DetailsMadeira Dive Sites Bible
Your complete guide to 20+ dive sites across Madeira and Porto Santo. Find the perfect dive for your level, from beginner-friendly shores to advanced wrecks.
5 Areas Covered 20+ Individual Sites Marine Life Guides
20-40m
Typical Visibility
18-24°C
Water Temp Range
5+
Wreck Dives
Year-Round
Diving Season
Dive Areas & Sites
Advanced
Corveta Afonso Cerqueira (F488)
85m navy corvette wreck, penetrable, Madeira's top wreck
South Coast / Cabo Girão
Depth: 12-33m depth
85m intact military vesselPenetrable compartments (engine room, cafeteria, bridge)
View DetailsIntermediate
Ponta de São Lourenço
Protected area, best visibility, rare monk seal chance
East Coast
Depth: 0-40m depth
Best visibility on island (30-40m+)Rare monk seal sightings possible
View DetailsIntermediate
Caniçal Dive Sites
Wall dives, caves, morays, east coast exploration
Caniçal
Depth: 0-26m depth
Moray eel hotspotCave dive with air pockets
View DetailsIntermediate
Porto Santo Island
Crystal clear water, wrecks, hidden gem for serious divers
Porto Santo
Depth: 24-35m depth (wrecks)
Up to 60m visibility in ideal conditionsMultiple wrecks (Madeirense, Cordeca)
View DetailsBest Months for Diving
Peak Season
June - September
- • Water: 22-26°C
- • Visibility: 30-40m+
- • Calmest seas, best conditions
Shoulder Season
May, Oct-Nov
- • Water: 20-24°C
- • Visibility: 25-35m
- • Fewer crowds, good value
Winter
December - April
- • Water: 16-18°C (7mm suit)
- • Visibility: 15-20m
- • Possible swell closures
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