ARIOSTO - Algarve & Berlengas

The Ariosto isn’t your typical Algarve wreck dive, and that’s why we love it. This isn't a deep, dramatic plunge, rather it’s a yacht, grounded near Albufeira. Maximum depth is a consistent five metres. You’re essentially snorkelling a wreck, or doing a very shallow dive, which means incredible light penetration. We’ve found the hull, described as rotting years ago, now provides fantastic nooks and crannies for juvenile fish and shrimp. It’s an easy-going site, perfect for photographers wanting to play with ambient light or new divers getting comfortable with a wreck without the pressure of depth. The fact it's so shallow means long bottom times are a given. When the sun hits it right, the light dances off the sand and penetrates the small cabins. You'll see schools of sea bream ghosting past, and we’ve spotted moray eels tucked deep within the structure. It’s accessible, different, and always delivers a relaxed dive.

Location
Algarve & Berlengas, Portugal, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
37.083332, -8.250000
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
5m

Wreck History - ARIOSTO

Vessel Type
yacht
Cause
storm

The story of the Ariosto is a common one along exposed coastlines: a battle between a small vessel and a powerful storm, which the sea ultimately won. This private yacht was caught in heavy weather off Albufeira in Portugal's beautiful Algarve region. Unable to fight the conditions, the vessel was driven ashore and grounded, thankfully without loss of life for the two people on board. Left to the elements, the wreck has been slowly disintegrating ever since. Lying in just 5 meters of water, its hull is now rotting and has been officially classified as a dangerous wreck due to its instability and potential for sharp, submerged hazards. While not a recreational dive site, its skeletal remains serve as a stark and poignant reminder of the ocean's unforgiving power.

Marine Protected Area: Recife do Algarve - Pedra do Valado

Best Time to Dive in Algarve & Berlengas

The warmest water temperatures in Algarve & Berlengas occur in January, averaging 16.7°C. The coolest conditions are in December at 16.7°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 16.7°C (air: 13.9°C)
  • February: 16.7°C (air: 14.4°C)
  • March: 16.7°C (air: 14.4°C)
  • April: 16.7°C (air: 15.5°C)
  • May: 16.7°C (air: 16.9°C)
  • June: 16.7°C (air: 18.0°C)
  • July: 16.7°C (air: 18.7°C)
  • August: 16.7°C (air: 19.0°C)
  • September: 16.7°C (air: 19.3°C)
  • October: 16.7°C (air: 18.4°C)
  • November: 16.7°C (air: 16.7°C)
  • December: 16.7°C (air: 15.3°C)

Nearby Dive Sites in Algarve & Berlengas

Nearest Dive Centres to ARIOSTO

Marine Life in Algarve & Berlengas

Home to 121 recorded species including 61 reef fish, 20 whales & dolphins, 14 sharks & rays, 7 crabs & lobsters, 4 other, 3 hard corals.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for ARIOSTO

Based on average water temperature of 16.7°C.

  • Wetsuit (5-7mm) - recommended for 17°C water
  • Hood & Gloves (3-5mm) - helps retain warmth
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories