SEA CORAL - Algarve & Berlengas

The Sea Coral wreck, off Cabo Roca, is a quick dip for those interested in a bit of history. She went down in 1977 after engine room trouble, a 59-meter motor vessel now resting in just two meters of water. We’ve found her to be quite broken up, but you can still pick out sections of her hull and some of the larger structural pieces. It’s a shallow dive, so light penetration and plenty of bottom time, making it a good spot for newer divers or those who prefer to stay out of the deeper blue. While we haven't seen anything truly unique, it’s home to the usual suspects: small schooling fish, a few crabs tucked into crevices, and some anemones clinging to the metal.

Location
Algarve & Berlengas, Portugal, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
38.716330, -9.485550
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
2m

Marine Protected Area: Cabo Raso

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 SEA CORAL

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 SEA CORAL

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 Sea Coral dive site?
The typical depth for diving at the Sea Coral dive site is 2 meters. This shallow depth makes it accessible, though its classification as a dangerous wreck suggests other considerations for divers.
What kind of marine life and coral species can I expect to see at Sea Coral?
The provided data for the Sea Coral dive site does not specify details about marine life or coral species. While many wrecks attract diverse ecosystems over time, specific information for this site is not available in our current records. For general information on marine life, you can visit our wildlife database.
How challenging is diving at Sea Coral, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
Diving at the Sea Coral site is classified as intermediate difficulty. Furthermore, it is designated as a dangerous wreck, which implies specific hazards. Due to these factors, it is generally not suitable for beginner divers and requires appropriate experience and caution.
When is the best time of year to dive at Sea Coral for optimal conditions and visibility?
The available data for the Sea Coral dive site does not specify the best time of year for optimal conditions and visibility. For general guidance on seasonal diving in the region, you might consult our when to dive section.
What scuba diving certifications are typically required to dive at the Sea Coral site?
Given that the Sea Coral dive site is classified as intermediate difficulty and a dangerous wreck, divers would typically need at least an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent. Specialized wreck diving certifications are highly recommended due to the nature of the site and its classification.
What are the usual currents and water conditions like at the Sea Coral dive site?
The provided data for the Sea Coral dive site does not include specific information about usual currents or typical water conditions. While the wreck's sinking involved heavy weather, this does not reflect everyday diving conditions. Divers should always check local conditions before planning a dive.