PORTOGALLO - Algarve & Berlengas

The Portogallo wreck isn't deep, topping out at a mere two metres, but don't let that fool you. This isn't a site for deep divers chasing elusive sharks. Instead, we love it for its sheer accessibility and the way the shallow depth transforms the experience. You're essentially looking at a huge, historical time capsule just beneath the surface. This isn't a swim-through kind of wreck, but rather a sprawling metal skeleton, broken up by decades of surge and salt. Sunlight streams through the water, illuminating the rust-coloured steel. It’s a photographer's dream on a calm day, especially with wide-angle lenses to capture the scale. We've seen schools of juvenile sea bream flitting amongst the twisted girders, and the occasional grumpy octopus tucked into a crevice. It’s perfect for snorkelers or freedivers who want a proper wreck dive without the tanks. Just be mindful of boat traffic, as it’s close to shore. Go early in the morning for the best light and fewest people.

Location
Algarve & Berlengas, Portugal, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
37.166668, -8.916667
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
2m

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 PORTOGALLO

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 PORTOGALLO

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