Portugal can be called one of the most beautiful countries in Europe. The proximity to the ocean and the distance from the major tourist centers was the reason that it managed to preserve the pristine nature of the region. Dense forests, a variety of wildlife and the amazing beauty of the underwater world – this is what attracts supporters of eco-tourism.
Another explanation for the popularity of Portugal – diving, which is most developed in its southern regions. Diving spots are scattered throughout the country, and it would be a great idea to explore them not as part of group tours, but on your own. All you need is to rent a car. Zitautos is the best choice among all national suppliers, while the southernmost city of Faro is the most successful starting point for your diving trip…
Diving Conditions in Portugal
Divers have chosen this country because it features ideal conditions for exploring the sea bottom. In winter, the air temperature varies between +13 … +18 °C, and in summer it reaches +30 °C. At the same time, the water in the ocean warms up to +26 °C. That is why diving in Portugal doesn’t have the low season. The coastal current is mostly moderate, sometimes very strong, but visibility in water can reach 30 meters.
Diving in Portugal is suitable for both beginners and experienced divers. Professional divers can dive to the depth of 35 meters, choosing sites with sandy or rocky bottom.
Popular diving sites in Portugal
The island and mainland parts of the country have a lot of interesting places to explore the underwater life. The most popular diving sites in Portugal include:
This archipelago is located in the Atlantic Ocean, surrounded by clear waters inhabited by dolphins, stingrays and numerous species of fish. The underwater terrain of Madeira is cut by rocky reefs and caves, which provide the opportunity of a particularly spectacular photo-shoot. At the sea bottom you can also find submerged ships of large sizes. In order to see all this beauty, it’s not necessary to use a motorboat, since most of the underwater objects are concentrated near the coast.
- Reis Magos
The waters of one of the beaches of Madeira are inhabited by a huge number of marine creatures. They are remarkable in that they are nocturnal, thus it’s better to dive there after sunset.
This marine park is considered to be one of the most popular dive sites in Portugal. It’s primarily interesting for its underwater flora and fauna. While diving in these waters, you can observe the life of sea bass, tuna, mackerel, mantle and barracuda. Not far from the marine park there’s a reef, where a huge cargo ship was flooded. This place became a haven for various marine inhabitants.
- T-Reef
This popular diving site in Portugal can be found 400 meters from Parcial do Garajau. Its territory stretches between two underwater cliffs, going up to the height of 12 meters. Under the water they form a deep cave with the length of which is 50 meters. Despite this fact, the site is excellent for inexperienced divers.
- Berlengas
This archipelago in Portugal is also an ideal diving destination. It’s suitable for divers with different levels of training, who will definitely appreciate beautiful underwater caves. The waters of Berlengas give a perfect chance to admire the huge shoals of the sea bream and perch.
- Sesimbra
This dive site is located off the coast of the same city and port. It’s also excellent for beginners. During diving in this part of Portugal you can see squids and congers. Be careful while exploring a local underwater life, because very often, large octopuses can aggressively respond to violators of their peace.
- Sagres
Portugal’s southernmost dive site is known for its caves, sunken ships and numerous marine colonies. Having immersed in its waters, you can watch the life of moray eels, octopuses, dolphins and a large number of small colorful fish.
- Algarve
This dive site is located off the mainland of the country. On its coast you can see a lot of grottoes and cliffs, which were created by water and winds for thousands of years. However, the greatest interest is its underwater part, consisting of stone labyrinths, submerged warships and numerous fish. Diving in the mainland of Portugal allows you to watch moray eels, barracudas, crabs and octopuses. In order to do this, you need to purchase a tight neoprene suit that protects against the cold water of the Atlantic.
- Azores
This is a group of 9 islands situated 1,500 km away from the mainland. That is why it’s more suitable for those who want to dive in silence and solitude. Due to the absence of a large flow of tourists, divers here can safely explore the depths of the sea. There are many submerged ships, underwater caves and rocky reefs off the local shores. While diving in this part of Portugal, you can observe the life of whales, sea sharks, dolphins, numerous fish and mollusks. In some dive centers, you can sign up for whale watching.