KAOLACK - Algarve & Berlengas

The Kaolack, a merchant ship, was scuttled intentionally in 2013 and has quickly become our favourite wreck in the Algarve. Resting upright at 26m, she’s still very much a ship, not just a pile of rubble. We love the way her structure remains so intact, offering plenty of swim-throughs and penetration opportunities if you’re properly trained and equipped. You can explore the cargo holds, the bridge, and even the engine room – just be mindful of silting. The wreck acts like an artificial reef, a magnet for local fish. Schools of sea bream shimmer around the superstructure, and we’ve often spotted conger eels peeking out from darker corners. Look closely at the deck plating, and you’ll see anemones and nudibranchs colonising the metal. The Kaolack is perfect for advanced divers looking for a proper wreck dive with good visibility and minimal current on most days. We suggest going early in the morning to beat any potential boat traffic and to enjoy the best light filtering through the water column.

Location
Algarve & Berlengas, Portugal, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
37.010000, -8.980000
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
26m

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 KAOLACK

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 KAOLACK

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