SIERRA - Algarve & Berlengas

The Sierra, a fishing vessel sunk in 1980, offers a unique dive just outside Lisbon. At only 13 metres, it’s an accessible wreck, especially for those new to overhead environments. We’ve found it lying on its side, the 62.5-metre hull surprisingly intact and providing plenty of nooks to poke around. Look for conger eels tucked into the darker spaces and schools of sea bream hovering just off the decks. It's a relaxed dive, good for photographers or anyone wanting a gentle introduction to wreck diving.

Location
Algarve & Berlengas, Portugal, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
38.706112, -9.129167
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
13m

Marine Protected Area: Estuário do Tejo

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 SIERRA

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 SIERRA

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 are the typical diving depths at Sierra dive sites in Lake Tahoe?
The provided data context is for the SIERRA wreck located in Algarve & Berlengas, Portugal, not Lake Tahoe. At this specific wreck site, divers can expect typical depths of 13 meters. Information regarding dive depths in Lake Tahoe is not available in the provided data.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see when diving in the Sierra Nevada mountains?
The provided data context describes the SIERRA wreck in Algarve & Berlengas, Portugal, not the Sierra Nevada mountains. This dive site features the remains of a 62.5m x 9.8m fishing vessel, sunk in 1980, classified as a wreck showing a portion of its hull or superstructure. Details on marine life for this specific wreck or features in the Sierra Nevada mountains are not included in the provided information.
How challenging are the dive sites in the Sierra Nevada, and are there options for all skill levels?
The provided data context refers to the SIERRA wreck in Algarve & Berlengas, Portugal, not the Sierra Nevada. This particular wreck dive is classified as intermediate difficulty. The provided information does not include details on the overall challenge or options for all skill levels in the Sierra Nevada mountains.
What is the best time of year to go scuba diving in the Sierra Nevada mountains for optimal conditions?
The provided data context is for the SIERRA wreck in Algarve & Berlengas, Portugal, not the Sierra Nevada mountains. Information regarding the best time of year for optimal diving conditions at this site, or in the Sierra Nevada, is not available in the provided data. For general guidance on seasonal diving, you might consult our When to Dive section.
What scuba diving certifications are required or recommended for diving in the Sierra Nevada, especially considering the altitude?
The provided data context is for the SIERRA wreck in Algarve & Berlengas, Portugal, not the Sierra Nevada mountains. This context does not specify certification requirements for the SIERRA wreck, nor does it address altitude diving considerations. Divers should always ensure they have appropriate certifications for their planned dives.
What are the typical water temperatures, visibility, and current conditions divers might encounter at Sierra dive sites?
The provided data context is for the SIERRA wreck in Algarve & Berlengas, Portugal. This specific data does not include information on typical water temperatures, visibility, or current conditions for the site. Divers planning to visit the SIERRA wreck should consult local dive operators for the most up-to-date conditions.