Dive Sites Madeira

Explore Madeira’s Underwater Worlds

From giant groupers and volcanic reefs to an iconic navy wreck and the rare monk seal, Madeira offers some of the most exciting scuba diving in Europe.

Madeira’s underwater highlights

Discover our most iconic diving areas

🐟 Garajau Marine Reserve
Giant grouper at Garajau Marine Reserve in Madeira
Garajau Marine Reserve

Madeira’s most famous marine reserve

Garajau Marine Reserve is not just one dive site, but a protected marine area with several different dive sites to explore. It is famous for its clear Atlantic waters, volcanic reef formations and impressive marine life, including the iconic giant groupers.

Area: protected marine reserve
Level: beginner to advanced
Departure: Funchal
  • Several dive sites available
  • Giant groupers
  • Barracudas
  • Stingrays
  • Moray eels
  • Octopus
  • Volcanic reefs
  • Walls, reefs and drift dives
Dive Garajau
⚓ Afonso Cerqueira Wreck
Afonso Cerqueira wreck dive map in Madeira
Afonso Cerqueira Wreck

Madeira’s iconic wreck dive

The Afonso Cerqueira F488 is a former Portuguese Navy corvette transformed into an artificial reef. Today, it is one of Madeira’s most exciting wreck dives and a highlight for certified divers visiting the island.

Type: wreck dive
Level: certified divers
Depth: approx. 15–30m
  • Historic navy wreck
  • Artificial reef
  • Schools of fish
  • Barracudas
  • Large stingrays
  • Excellent photo opportunities
Explore the Wreck
🦭 Ponta de São Lourenço
Monk seal near Ponta de São Lourenço Madeira
Ponta de São Lourenço

Diving on Madeira’s wild eastern coast

Ponta de São Lourenço is a protected marine area with several dive sites available. It combines dramatic volcanic landscapes, rich Atlantic marine life and one of the most spectacular natural settings in Madeira.

Area: protected marine area
Level: suitable for most divers
Departure: Ponta de São Lourenço
  • Several dive sites available
  • Volcanic underwater scenery
  • Protected marine environment
  • Rays and moray eels
  • Atlantic fish life
  • Occasional pelagic encounters
  • Rare monk seal encounters
  • Spectacular coastal landscapes
Dive Ponta
Marine life Madeira

What can you see while diving in Madeira?

Madeira’s Atlantic waters are home to rich marine life, from reef species and rays to occasional rare encounters.

🐟
Giant Groupers Garajau’s iconic residents.
🐙
Octopus Common around rocky reefs.
⚡
Stingrays Often seen resting on sandy areas.
🐍
Moray Eels Hidden in volcanic rock formations.
🐢
Turtles Occasional unforgettable encounters.
🦭
Monk Seal Rare, protected and very special.
🦈
Sharks Occasionally spotted offshore.
🐠
Atlantic Fish Colourful reef life and schooling fish.
Choose the right dive

Not sure which diving area is right for you?

First time diving in Madeira? Start with Garajau Marine Reserve for beautiful reefs and iconic marine life.
Love wreck diving? Choose the Afonso Cerqueira wreck, one of Madeira’s most memorable dives.
Looking for wild scenery? Ponta de São Lourenço offers dramatic volcanic landscapes and a protected natural setting.
Why dive with Azul?

Daily access to Madeira’s most spectacular underwater locations.

Azul Diving Madeira combines experienced local guides, small groups, professional organisation and access to some of the island’s best diving areas.

Local experience Diving Madeira since 2014 with thousands of happy guests.
Small groups More comfort, more attention and better underwater experiences.
Two locations Departures from Funchal and Ponta de São Lourenço.
Professional dive team PADI 5-Star Dive Centre with experienced guides and instructors.

Ready to explore Madeira’s underwater worlds?

Join our daily departures and discover why Madeira is considered one of Europe’s most exciting diving destinations.

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