OTTAWA MAYGLEN - Algarve & Berlengas

The *Ottawa Mayglen* is a proper piece of history resting just outside Portimão harbour, and frankly, we love it. Sunk in 1951 after a collision, this 45-meter steamship sits upright at a very friendly 13 meters. It’s perfect for divers who appreciate a wreck with a story, without needing crazy depth or tricky conditions. What makes the *Ottawa Mayglen* a standout for us? It’s the atmosphere. Dropping down, you can still make out the distinct shape of the vessel, the bow and stern largely intact. We’ve spent hours poking around the cargo holds, which are now completely open to the light, creating these fantastic swim-throughs where schools of juvenile sea bream often congregate. The light plays beautifully off the metal, highlighting the vibrant jewel anemones that cling to every surface, painting the steel in oranges and purples. Keep an eye out for octopus tucked away in crevices, they’re almost always there. It’s a very calm dive, rarely strong current, making it ideal for photographers or newer divers looking to get a proper wreck experience. Our favourite moment is always coming across the propeller, still standing proud, heavily encrusted with sponges. It truly feels like you're exploring a forgotten moment in time.

Location
Algarve & Berlengas, Portugal, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
37.104168, -8.541667
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
13m

Marine Protected Area: Leixão da Gaivota

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 OTTAWA MAYGLEN

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 OTTAWA MAYGLEN

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