Dive Sites - An Underwater Adventure
Although Madeira has great diving experiences to offer, there are two sites that stand out in particular. The first is the Garajau Nature Reserve, located on the southeast coast of the island. This reserve is home to a variety of underwater habitats, including artificial and natural reefs, dykes and caves. You are likely to encounter many green moray eels, damselfish, triggerfish, barracuda, wahoo, anemones, octopus, seahorses and other colourful marine life. It is also possible to spot some of the larger species such as barracudas and tuna.
The second place worth mentioning is the Ponte de Sao Vicente, located on the north coast. Diving in this area means exploring a volcanic underwater landscape with a great variety of marine life. There are shallow waters of no more than 18 metres, and if you are a more experienced diver, you can venture to depths of around 25 metres in even more interesting and varied terrain. You may see schools of fish, such as amberjack and parrotfish, as well as the possibility of seeing sea turtles and small rays.
Tropical waters
Thanks to the warm subtropical climate, Madeira boasts waters with average temperatures ranging from 18 to 24 degrees Celsius, making diving irresistible all year round. This makes it an ideal destination for both snorkelling and scuba diving. With this tropical temperature, it is also perfect for diving all year round, making Madeira a great destination for a diving holiday.
Underwater visibility
Madeira is often portrayed as a floating garden in the sea. However, its attractions go beyond what can be seen on the surface. Diving into its aquatic world reveals an abundance of life and an explosion of vibrant colours.
Another advantage of diving in Madeira is its excellent underwater visibility. Typically, the waters have a visibility of between 15 and 30 metres, offering great opportunities for underwater photography. Visibility increases significantly during the summer months, with some sites offering great visibility of up to 40 metres.
Dive centres in Madeira
If you are a beginner or don't have all the necessary diving equipment, Madeira has a wide variety of dive centres in the area that will cater for all your needs. Whether you are looking for a guide to introduce you to the wonders of diving in Madeira, a professional instructor to take you to the best dive sites or quality equipment hire, there are plenty of centres to suit your needs.
Where can I book?
At Scuba Finders, you will find a variety of dive centres and courses available to suit your needs and skill level. From beginner courses to advanced certification programmes, Scuba Finders will help you plan your next underwater adventure in Madeira.
Diving in Madeira offers everything a diver could wish for. From the fascinating dive sites and vibrant marine life to the warm waters and excellent visibility. The mild climate makes it the perfect destination for diving at any time of the year.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is scuba diving in Madeira like?
Discover Scuba Diving in Madeira is a unique and exciting experience. All the necessary instructions and equipment are provided to make beginners feel safe and comfortable underwater. An experienced diving instructor will be with you at all times to ensure your safety.
What is the price of diving in Madeira?
The price of diving in Madeira can vary depending on the dive centre and the type of dive you wish to do. In general, you can expect to pay between 50 and 100 euros for a dive, including equipment rental. We recommend that you search for your favourite activities and dive centres on Scuba Finders, where you can find the best dive centres at the best prices.
How can I get certified to dive in Madeira?
There are several dive centres in Madeira that offer scuba diving certification courses. These courses usually include a combination of theoretical and practical learning, with dives in the Atlantic Ocean. At the end of the course, if you have fulfilled all the requirements, you will receive your diving certification.
