João Pedro - Algarve & Berlengas

The João Pedro is a fantastic introduction to wreck diving, one we often recommend for newer divers looking for something beyond a reef. Sitting upright at 18 metres, this old fishing trawler is remarkably intact, which isn't always the case for wrecks in these waters. We particularly love how much you can still make out: the wheelhouse is a highlight, and the stern still has a lot of its original structure. Inside, the light filters through gaps, creating an almost cathedral-like feel, especially on a sunny day. Look for schools of juvenile sea bream darting through the doorways and along the deck. The hull is covered in jewel anemones, creating these incredible bursts of colour against the rusted metal. Around the bow, you'll often spot conger eels peeking out from behind plates of metal, and the occasional octopus tucked away. It's a gentle dive, usually with minimal current, making it easy to spend a good chunk of bottom time exploring every nook and cranny. For photographers, the ambient light and the way the wreck has become an artificial reef make for some really interesting shots.

Location
Algarve & Berlengas, Portugal, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
37.079000, -8.349200
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
18m
Difficulty
Beginner

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 João Pedro

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 João Pedro

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