CRISTINA SUARDIAZ - Algarve & Berlengas

Cristina Suardiaz isn't a deep dive, sitting in just six metres of water. It’s perfect for those days when you want a longer bottom time, or if you’re newer to wreck diving. The old motor vessel broke up a fair bit after grounding in heavy weather back in '77, but there’s still plenty of structure to poke around. We love the way the light filters through the shallow water, illuminating schools of juvenile fish darting in and out of the metal ribs. You can weave through the larger sections of the hull, spotting curious moray eels peeking from crevices. Keep an eye out for octopus tucked away, masters of disguise, and the occasional cuttlefish gliding past. Our favourite part is the engine room, which is still quite recognisable, now completely overgrown with colourful anemones and sponges. It’s a peaceful, accessible wreck that gives you a real sense of history, without the pressure of a deep dive.

Location
Algarve & Berlengas, Portugal, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
37.083332, -8.683333
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
6m

Marine Protected Area: Ria de Alvor

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 CRISTINA SUARDIAZ

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 CRISTINA SUARDIAZ

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