WALTRAUD - Algarve & Berlengas

The Waltraud is one of those wrecks that really sticks with you, a proper piece of history sunk in 1989. For a Mediterranean wreck, it’s surprisingly intact, lying on its starboard side in just 20 metres. We love dropping down onto the huge cargo holds, often finding small schools of sea bream darting in and out of the openings. Our favourite part is definitely the bridge. You can fin right through, imagining the ship’s final moments, and it’s now home to some impressive conger eels – we’ve seen them peering out from behind what used to be navigation equipment. The bow section is also fantastic for photography, especially when the light is just right and illuminates the anemones and colourful sponges that have colonised the plates. Visibility here can vary, but on a good day, you get a real sense of the ship’s scale, all 98.5 metres of it. It’s a site that suits advanced divers who appreciate a good wreck story and aren't afraid of a bit of an interior explore. We’d suggest going in late spring or early autumn for the best conditions and fewer currents.

Location
Algarve & Berlengas, Portugal, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
39.022556, -9.424278
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
2m

Marine Protected Area: Sintra / Cascais

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 WALTRAUD

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 WALTRAUD

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 maximum depth of the Waltraud Behrmann Wreck dive site?
The maximum depth of the Waltraud Wreck dive site is 2 meters. This shallow depth makes it accessible, but its classification as an intermediate dive suggests other factors contribute to its difficulty.
How difficult is diving the Waltraud Behrmann Wreck, and is it suitable for beginners?
Diving the Waltraud Wreck is classified as intermediate difficulty. Therefore, it is generally not recommended for absolute beginners. Divers should have appropriate experience and training for intermediate wreck dives.
What kind of marine life and wreck features can divers expect to see at the Waltraud Behrmann Wreck?
The Waltraud Wreck is a substantial motor vessel, measuring 98.5m x 13.4m, offering significant wreck features to explore. Divers can expect to see portions of its hull and superstructure, as it was built in 1986 and sunk in 1989. While specific marine life is not detailed, wrecks typically attract a variety of local species, making it an interesting site for marine life observation.
When is the best time of year to dive the Waltraud Behrmann Wreck for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive the Waltraud Wreck for optimal conditions. For general guidance on diving in Portugal, you might consult our When to Dive section for seasonal insights.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive the Waltraud Behrmann Wreck?
While specific certification requirements are not detailed, given the Waltraud Wreck's intermediate difficulty, divers should possess at least an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent. Additionally, a Wreck Diver specialty certification is highly recommended to safely explore wreck sites. Always check with local dive operators for their specific requirements.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like at the Waltraud Behrmann Wreck dive site?
The provided data does not include specific information regarding typical current conditions or visibility at the Waltraud Wreck dive site. It's always advisable to consult with local dive centers in Algarve & Berlengas for the most current conditions before planning your dive.