26m
    Intermediate
    Algarve & Berlengas, Portugal
    Ria de Alvor

    Navio Zambeze (Wreck)

    Best months: Jun–Oct

    Protected Area

    Ria de Alvor

    Why dive here

    With 116+ marine species recorded in the area - including blue sharks, blue whales, dolphins, dwarf minke whales and ocean sunfish (mola mola) - Navio Zambeze (Wreck) offers some of Algarve & Berlengas's richest wreck diving. Water ranges 15-19°C, warmest June, October, November.

    Best timeJun–Oct
    WetsuitA 5mm wetsuit
    Marine lifeBlue Sharks, Blue Whales, Dolphins, Dwarf Minke Whales and Ocean Sunfish (Mola Mola) · 116+ species recorded
    Water15-19°C · warmest June, October, November
    CharacterWreck dive · max 26m
    StandoutRich in charismatic marine life

    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.

    Typical Navio Zambeze (Wreck) Dive Profile

    10m20m30mSafety Stop0m26m max~30 min estimated bottom time

    Illustrative profile based on site depth and type. Actual dive profiles vary - always follow your dive computer and training.

    Safety Notes

    Depth of 26m - Advanced Open Water certification recommended.

    Wreck site - avoid penetration without wreck diving certification. Watch for sharp metal and entanglement hazards.

    Always perform a 3-minute safety stop at 5m before surfacing.

    Today05:3917:0511h 26m daylightGolden hour 16:30

    Nearest Dive Centres to Navio Zambeze (Wreck)

    Dive shops near Navio Zambeze (Wreck)

    View all dive centres in Algarve & Berlengas

    Reviews for Navio Zambeze (Wreck)

    Sign in to write a review

    Conditions

    Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for Navio Zambeze (Wreck)

    Navio Zambeze (Wreck) Ocean Conditions

    Monthly averages for Navio Zambeze (Wreck), sourced from Open-Meteo marine data - nearest station: Open-Meteo marine grid (37.92, -8.81) (40km away)

    ExcellentGreatGoodFairPoor★Best monthsThis month

    October Averages

    Sea Temperature

    19°C

    65°F · Range: 16.7–20.2°C

    Air Temperature

    18°C

    65°F

    Wind Speed

    8.24 m/s

    16.0 knots

    Atmospheric Pressure

    1017.4 hPa

    Based on 4 years of monitoring data · Data sources: Open-Meteo marine data

    Plan & book

    Ways to dive Algarve & Berlengas, from day trips to liveaboards.

    Day trips & courses

    via GetYourGuide

    Guided dives, courses and snorkel trips with instant booking.

    Find dive trips in Algarve & Berlengas

    Places to stay

    via Booking.com

    Hotels and dive resorts near Algarve & Berlengas.

    Search stays in Algarve & Berlengas

    Dive insurance

    Most travel insurance excludes or limits scuba. Check what you need before you go.

    Dive insurance explained

    Partner links: we may earn a commission if you book, at no extra cost to you. How we make money

    Where to Stay near Navio Zambeze (Wreck)

    Prices from Booking.com. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

    Back to Algarve & Berlengas