OURANOS - Algarve & Berlengas

The Ouranos, a tanker that ran aground in 1974, is one of our favourite wreck dives in the Algarve. We love how accessible it is, sitting fairly shallow, making it a good option for divers still getting comfortable with penetration or those just wanting a longer bottom time. You can still make out the distinct shape of the vessel, with the bow and stern sections relatively intact, though the middle has collapsed a fair bit. What really makes the Ouranos special is the way the marine life has completely taken over. We’ve seen schools of sea bream so thick you almost have to push through them, and the resident conger eels are truly enormous, often peeking out from every dark corner. Our favourite part is exploring the engine room, where light filters in through various openings, illuminating clouds of glassfish. We’d suggest going on a day with minimal surge, as the shallower parts can get a bit churned up, but even then, the wreck offers plenty of sheltered nooks. It's a proper wreck diver's playground, full of atmosphere and life.

Location
Algarve & Berlengas, Portugal, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
37.018500, -9.001500
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
0m

Marine Protected Area: Sudoeste Alentejano e Costa Vicentina

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 OURANOS

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 OURANOS

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical depth range for diving at the Ouranos dive site?
The Ouranos dive site is characterized by a depth of 0m. This means the wreck of the tanker vessel is exceptionally shallow, with portions of its hull or superstructure likely visible at the surface. It offers a unique opportunity to explore a wreck that is accessible right from the surface.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at Ouranos?
Divers at Ouranos can expect to explore the impressive underwater features of a sunken tanker vessel. This wreck, which ran aground and sank on January 15, 1974, measures 64.3m x 9.6m. It is classified as a wreck showing any portion of its hull or superstructure, making it a prominent underwater landmark.
How challenging is the Ouranos dive site for different levels of divers?
The Ouranos dive site is classified as having an intermediate difficulty level. This suggests that while it's not suitable for absolute beginners, divers with some experience and appropriate training can comfortably explore this wreck site. It offers a rewarding experience for those ready for a moderate challenge.
What is the best time of year to dive Ouranos for optimal conditions and visibility?
Based on the provided data, there is no specific information regarding the best time of year to dive Ouranos for optimal conditions and visibility. For general guidance on diving seasons in Portugal or the Mediterranean Europe region, you might consult our When to Dive section.
What diving certifications are typically required to dive at the Ouranos site?
While specific certification requirements are not provided for the Ouranos dive site, its intermediate difficulty classification typically suggests that divers should hold at least an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent. This ensures divers have the necessary skills and experience to safely navigate the wreck environment. Always check with local dive operators for precise requirements.
What are the usual currents and water conditions like at the Ouranos dive site?
The provided data does not include specific details about the usual currents or water conditions at the Ouranos dive site. Divers planning a trip to Algarve & Berlengas should consult local dive centers for the most up-to-date information on conditions.