OLIVERA - Algarve & Berlengas

The Olivera wreck, down at 40 metres, is a proper technical dive, and one we always enjoy for its sheer size and the way it’s come to life again underwater. We found the stern section mostly intact, the hull still recognisable, though time and current have definitely taken their toll elsewhere. It’s got that ghostly, skeletal feel, with light rays sometimes piercing the gloom, illuminating the superstructure for a moment. You’ll spend most of your bottom time finning slowly around it, looking for the shy conger eels tucked into shadowy corners and the schools of glinting European barracuda that often hang just off the deck, their scales catching the light. Our pick for making the most of it? Go on a calm day, because strong currents here can make navigation a bit of a workout. It’s a site for experienced divers, comfortable with the depth and a good dive plan.

Location
Algarve & Berlengas, Portugal, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
37.025333, -7.028000
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
40m

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 OLIVERA

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 OLIVERA

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