Funchal - Diving Holiday Destination

Funchal (Portugal)

Madeira is an archipelago of seven islands off the West Coast of Africa, in the Atlantic Ocean.

Only two of the islands are inhabited: Madeira Island and Porto Santo. Madeira is small but picturesque, with rocky beaches; most tourist accommodations are based at the capital, Funchal, on the South coast; Machico, on the East Coast and at Canico, close to the Gurajau Marine Reserve. Diving is mainly concentrated on the south coast, between funcal and Canico. The rocky coastline lends itself to shore dives, with other sites being in reach within a few minutes by boat. Porto Santo Island is less developed than Madeira so offers a more peaceful setting, along with a 5-mile sandy beach and good dive sites.

Funchal itself has an attractive waterfront with a bustling marina and a lively nightlife. There are many high quality restaurants and the Old Town is well worth a visit.

Climate

Climate: mild all year, with air temperatures vary from 18 degrees C in winter to 24 degrees in summer.

Rainfall: between October and December, approx 7 days of rain per month.

Dive Facts

Water temperatures between 17 - 23 degrees makes all year round diving possible.

Visibility is usually good.

Dive Attractions

A mild climate all year round, water temperatures of 18 to 23°C, depending on the season, crystal clear waters and the likelihood of viewing species like barracudas, monkfish, dolphins, rays and even mantas are the main reasons why lovers of this sport consider the island of Madeira more and more for their diving holidays.

Dive Sites Include:

Baracudareef
Two rock pinnacles that rise from 30 metres, covered with yellow Anemones offer a fascinating view of great Barracudas, Stingrays and Morays, Congas and swarms of Mackerel and Trigger fish. Boat: approx. 20 min.

Pyramid
A Pyramid shaped rock face from 3 to 15 metres depth. Here you will find an assortment of Rays, Morays, crabs and many lower life forms. Boat: approx.10 min.

Wreck site: Bowbelle:

This Sand dredger which sank on 25 March 1996 at a depth of 32 metres. The digger which is situated on the sand filled deck offers a home to various Moray Eels. See our Dive site Directory for more info and pics on this site.

Other

Currency: Euro

Language: Portugese, English widely understood.

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