Navio Zambeze (Wreck) - Algarve & Berlengas

The *Navio Zambeze* is our favourite kind of wreck: not just a heap of metal, but a real time capsule. Lying at 26 metres, she’s a former cargo ship scuttled deliberately as an artificial reef, and it shows in how she’s settled. We love that you can still make out the superstructure, even poke your head into a couple of the holds. The bow is especially photogenic, draped in sponges and anemones, with schools of glasseye and pouting hovering just above the deck. Exploring the Zambeze feels less like a dive and more like an archaeological stroll. We usually find conger eels tucked into the darker corners, their heads peeking out, watching us with mild disinterest. Look closely at the hull plates for nudibranchs, especially in the nooks where the light doesn't quite reach. This site is perfect for intermediate divers who appreciate a wreck with a story and the chance to linger, rather than just zooming past. It’s also a good one if you’re trying out your wreck photography, the light penetrates well enough to make for some moody shots.

Location
Algarve & Berlengas, Portugal, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
37.096000, -8.598200
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
26m
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 Navio Zambeze (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 Navio Zambeze (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