Diving in Puerto Madryn
Why dive here
Puerto Madryn offers 19 dive sites in Argentina.
Puerto Madryn is an interesting spot, definitely Patagonia’s diving capital. You’re not coming here for tropical reefs, that much is clear. This is cold water diving, and it's all about the marine mammals. From June to December, the southern right whales are the main attraction, sometimes cruising right past the dive boats. Outside of whale season, you’ll find plenty of sea lions and elephant seals. The occasional orca sighting from the boat is always a thrill. Expect good visibility on calm days, though it can drop after heavy winds. The reef structures are mostly rocky with kelp forests, home to species like blue mussels and Cancellated Clams, but the bigger draw is the wildlife.
Puerto Madryn Dive Site Map
Dive sites and dive centres in Puerto Madryn
Puerto Madryn Dive Sites
19 dive sites in Puerto Madryn
Ardilla
Ardilla, just outside Puerto Madryn, is one of those sites that always leaves us smiling. It's a rocky reef, shallower at 10 meters and dropping to 20, absolutely covered in thick kelp. This is where you’ll usually find the Patagonian sea lions hanging out, zipping through the fronds, curious and playful. It’s a pretty mellow dive, nothing too challenging, perfect for spending some real quality time watching the kelp sway and those sea lions show off.
Arrecife Los Destecados
Arrecife Los Destecados offers a chance to explore a natural reef structure off Puerto Madryn. While not a riot of colour, we often find a good mix of smaller fish here, like hake, and sometimes even the occasional Patagonian octopus tucked into a crevice. It's a decent spot for a relaxed dive, particularly if you appreciate the subtler beauty of temperate water ecosystems. We'd suggest it for divers looking for a straightforward, easygoing exploration.
Bajo Abreojo
Bajo Abreojo is a popular reef site just off Puerto Madryn, known for its extensive soft coral coverage. Divers here often encounter a variety of nudibranchs, small crabs, and anemones clinging to the rock formations. The site is relatively shallow, making it a good option for those looking for a relaxed dive with plenty of macro opportunities. We'd suggest it for divers who appreciate slower-paced exploration.
Bajo Aitui
Bajo Aitui, near Puerto Madryn, offers a look at a unique coral reef system. It’s a good spot for divers keen to explore the cooler waters of Patagonia and see the hardier coral species that thrive here. We'd suggest it for divers who appreciate a different kind of reef environment, away from the typical tropical scene.
Bajo Blanco
Bajo Blanco sits just off the coast of Puerto Madryn, a solid choice for a casual dive in Patagonia. The reef here, while not extensive, has enough nooks and crannies to keep things interesting. You'll often find conger eels peering from crevices and the occasional Patagonian octopus. It's a good spot for a relaxed dive, especially if you're looking to log some local time.
Bajo Blas
Mellemrevet is one of those places that reminds you how much life thrives even in chillier waters. We love the sheer density of the smaller stuff here, making it a fantastic macro dive if you’re patient. Drop down and you’ll often find Atlantic cod lurking in the deeper pockets, while schools of sprat shimmer like liquid silver. Look closely amongst the coral and you’ll spot grey gurnards and the strange, captivating North Sea Tube Anemone with its delicate tentacles. The real stars for us are the molluscs. Keep an eye out for the ancient-looking Ocean Quahogs and the intricate shells of Striated Crenellas. We’d suggest going on a calm day; the North Sea can kick up a fuss, and better conditions mean more time to really explore the nooks and crannies. This site is brilliant for divers who appreciate the subtler beauty of a cold-water reef and enjoy slowing down to find the smaller treasures. It’s not about huge pelagics here; it's about the intricate ecosystem humming with life right under your nose.
Bajo Chagua
Bajo Chagua offers a look at the cooler water reefs off Puerto Madryn. This site doesn't typically wow with huge pelagics, but for divers interested in the more subtle beauty of South American coral, it’s a good choice. Expect to find plenty of smaller critters tucked into the coral formations. It's a solid dive for those who appreciate macro life and a quieter pace.
Bajo Chalinao
Bajo Chalinao sits in Puerto Madryn, a solid choice if you're exploring Argentina’s Atlantic coast. The site features a notable reef, offering a glimpse of the cooler water species that thrive here. We'd suggest it for divers looking to experience the region's specific underwater environment, rather than a tropical coral spectacle. Conditions can vary, so always check with local operators before heading out.
Bajo Chaulinec
Bajo Chaulinec is a notable reef located just off Puerto Madryn's coast. It’s a good spot for divers looking for a straightforward dive among the kelp forests that thrive here. Expect to see some of the local Patagonian marine life, like various crabs and maybe some smaller fish species. It’s generally a relaxed dive, suitable for most experience levels when conditions are calm.
Bajos de Lami
Lucys Bar isn't your typical tropical reef. This is Nova Scotia, after all. What we love about diving here is the sheer, unexpected density of life. We're talking thick patches of Oarweed swaying with the surge, creating a habitat for everything from Atlantic Tomcod darting between fronds to the occasional glimpse of a sleek Northern Pipefish. It’s a different kind of beauty down here. We've spent dives just watching Dog Whelks navigate the rocky substrate, or spotting Winter Skate tucked into sandy depressions. You'll often find butterfish schooling, and if you’re lucky, a harbour porpoise might cruise past in the distance. Visibility can be a bit variable, so pick your day carefully; a calm, sunny morning after a few days without strong winds is always our favourite. This site is perfect for those who appreciate the subtle, resilient beauty of temperate marine ecosystems and enjoy a dive that rewards slow, careful observation.
Banco Alto del Perú
Banco Alto del Perú, near Puerto Madryn, presents a deep reef dive. We’ve found it’s best suited for experienced divers comfortable with colder water and potentially strong currents. Look for various cold-water species, though visibility can be temperamental depending on the season. It’s a good option for those exploring the less-dived temperate waters of South America.
Banco Chiguao
Banco Chiguao is one of the more talked-about sites in Puerto Madryn, though it's less a coral reef and more a series of rock formations covered in colorful anemones and sponges. You’ll usually find sea lions curious about divers here, often coming in close for a look. It’s a good spot for a relaxed dive, usually with moderate currents, suiting newer divers or those looking for a laid-back experience. Visibility can be a bit variable, depending on the season and recent weather.
Puerto Madryn Dive Centres
13 dive shops and operators in Puerto Madryn
Ocean Wildlife in Puerto Madryn
3 species recorded in Puerto Madryn
Puerto Madryn Daylight & Sunrise/Sunset
Sunrise and sunset times for Puerto Madryn, calculated from coordinates
Today - Monday 24 August
Sunrise
06:29
Sunset
17:18
Daylight
10h 48m
Golden Hour
16:39
First light (dawn) at 06:01 · Last light (dusk) at 17:46
Monthly Averages
| Month | Sunrise | Sunset | Daylight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 04:33 | 19:27 | 14h 54m |
| Feb | 05:13 | 18:58 | 13h 45m |
| Mar | 05:47 | 18:14 | 12h 27m |
| Apr | 06:21 | 17:21 | 11h 1m |
| May | 06:53 | 16:42 | 9h 49m |
| JunShortest | 07:17 | 16:26 | 9h 9m |
| Jul | 07:15 | 16:38 | 9h 23m |
| AugNow | 06:44 | 17:07 | 10h 23m |
| Sep | 05:54 | 17:39 | 11h 45m |
| Oct | 05:03 | 18:11 | 13h 8m |
| Nov | 04:22 | 18:49 | 14h 27m |
| DecLongest | 04:10 | 19:21 | 15h 12m |
Times are approximate local times based on longitude. Actual times may vary slightly depending on the exact timezone observed in Puerto Madryn.
Where to Stay near Puerto Madryn
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Marine Protected Areas near Puerto Madryn
45 protected areas near Puerto Madryn - please respect local regulations when diving
Yaganes
Yaganes
Namuncurá - Banco Burdwood I
Namuncurá - Banco Burdwood II
Patagonia Azul
Yaganes
Valdés
Namuncurá - Banco Burdwood II
Namuncurá - Banco Burdwood I
Península Valdés
Bahia San Blas
Bahía Blanca, Bahía Falsa y Bahía Verde
Showing 12 largest of 45
Getting to Puerto Madryn
Puerto Montt
San Carlos de Bariloche
Temuco
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