LOLITA SANTANA - Algarve & Berlengas

The Lolita Santana isn't about depth, it’s about story and atmosphere. This old fishing vessel, now broken into three main sections, lies in a remarkably shallow four metres, making it an excellent long dive for new wreck enthusiasts or photographers who appreciate good light. We love how the sunlight filters through the surface, illuminating the rusted metal, creating these incredible dappled patterns on the deck. You’ll spend your time exploring the stern, bow, and midsection, each piece offering a different hideout for the local residents. Expect to see clouds of juvenile sea bream swirling around the structure, the occasional cuttlefish camouflaged against the rust, and often a curious octopus peeking from a dark corner. Our favourite part is the bow, where the anchor chain still drapes dramatically over the side, an almost artistic touch to the decay. It’s an easy, relaxed dive, ideal for those who want to practice their wreck penetration skills on small swim-throughs without the pressure of deep water or strong currents. Just watch your buoyancy; it’s easy to stir up the fine sand here.

Location
Algarve & Berlengas, Portugal, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
37.153057, -7.383333
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
4m

Marine Protected Area: Ria Formosa / Castro Marim

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 LOLITA SANTANA

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 LOLITA SANTANA

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