Madeira Dive Sites Bible
Explore 5 dive sites across Madeira Island. From the famous groupers at Garajau to the Corveta wreck - find the perfect dive for your level.
Featured Dive Site
View all details →Caniço / Garajau
Garajau Nature Reserve
Madeira's flagship marine reserve, home to the famous 'tamed' dusky groupers. Protected waters offer exceptional biodiversity and underwater photography opportunities. Multiple dive sites within the reserve including Arena, T-Reef, and Lazareto.
Depth Range
11-30m
Best Season
June, July, August
Caniço / Garajau
Garajau Nature Reserve
Flagship marine reserve, famous groupers, photography paradise
Best Season
June, July
Highlights
Habituated dusky groupers...
South Coast / Cabo Girão
Corveta Afonso Cerqueira (F488)
85m navy corvette wreck, penetrable, Madeira's top wreck
Best Season
June, July
Highlights
85m intact military...
East Coast
Ponta de São Lourenço
Protected area, best visibility, rare monk seal chance
Best Season
June, July
Highlights
Best visibility on...
Caniçal
Caniçal Dive Sites
Wall dives, caves, morays, east coast exploration
Best Season
June, July
Highlights
Moray eel hotspot...
Porto Santo
Porto Santo Island
Crystal clear water, wrecks, hidden gem for serious divers
Best Season
June, July
Highlights
Up to 60m...
Diving Conditions by Season
Peak Season
June - September
- Water: 22-26°C (3-5mm wetsuit)
- Visibility: 30-40m+
- Calm seas, all sites accessible
Shoulder Season
May, Oct - Nov
- Water: 20-24°C (5mm wetsuit)
- Visibility: 25-35m
- Fewer crowds, great value
Winter
December - April
- Water: 16-18°C (5-7mm wetsuit)
- Visibility: 15-20m
- Some sites may close for swell
Wetsuit Guide
What to wear
- Summer: 3-5mm full suit
- Shoulder: 5mm full suit
- Winter: 5-7mm + hood recommended
- Tip: Water is colder than air suggests!
Get the Complete Dive Sites Bible
Download our PDF guide with detailed maps, marine life identification, and underwater photography tips for every dive site.
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