Hermenegildo Capelo (Wreck) - Algarve & Berlengas

The Hermenegildo Capelo is a proper dive, a deep wreck that sits upright at 30 metres. We love how intact she feels, like a ghost ship. Dropping down, you’ll see the bow first, still pointing proudly, a testament to her former glory as a Portuguese Navy corvette. It’s a fantastic rummage for intermediate divers who appreciate a wreck with history and character. Penetration is possible if you’re experienced and properly equipped, but we find the exterior alone offers plenty to explore. The main deck is still largely there, and you can swim through the bridge area, imagining the crew. Schools of sardines often flicker around the superstructure, a silver cloud moving as one. Look closely, and you’ll find conger eels peeking from pipes and the occasional grumpy octopus tucked into a crevice. The visibility here can be excellent, especially on a calm day, letting you appreciate the scale of the wreck. Dive it in the morning before any boat traffic kicks up the particulates. It’s a favourite of ours in the Algarve, a real journey into the past.

Location
Algarve & Berlengas, Portugal, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
37.090200, -8.597400
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
30m
Difficulty
Intermediate

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 Hermenegildo Capelo (Wreck)

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 Hermenegildo Capelo (Wreck)

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