Ilha Josefa - Arraial do Cabo

M & M, off the KwaZulu-Natal coast, gives you a different kind of dive. It's a wall, really more of a cliff face, dropping down to around 14m, then giving way to a gentle rocky slope. Visibility can be a bit of a mixed bag here, averaging around 2m, so you'll want to keep your buddy close. We’ve spotted carp and the occasional rainbow trout, along with various other freshwater species, which is always a bit of a surprise in what feels like an ocean dive. It’s a good spot for a relaxed shallow dive, probably best for those who enjoy unusual encounters more than wide-open reef vistas.

Location
Arraial do Cabo, Brazil, South America
Coordinates
-23.020000, -44.393200
Type
wall

Marine Protected Area: Reserva Particular Do Patrimônio Natural Gleba O Saquinho De Itapirapuá

Best Time to Dive in Arraial do Cabo

The warmest water temperatures in Arraial do Cabo occur in January, averaging 26.6°C. The coolest conditions are in August at 21.6°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 26.6°C
  • February: 26.4°C
  • March: 26.5°C
  • April: 25.0°C
  • May: 24.0°C
  • June: 22.9°C
  • July: 21.9°C
  • August: 21.6°C
  • September: 22.2°C
  • October: 23.0°C
  • November: 23.4°C
  • December: 24.8°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Arraial do Cabo

Nearest Dive Centres to Ilha Josefa

Marine Life in Arraial do Cabo

Home to 62 recorded species including 44 reef fish, 3 other, 3 crabs & lobsters, 3 sea urchins, 2 whales & dolphins, 2 seagrass & algae.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Ilha Josefa

Based on average water temperature of 24.0°C, currents 7 cm/s.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 24°C water needs minimal exposure protection
  • 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 Ilha Josefa?
Diving at Ilha Josefa offers a shallow experience, with depths typically ranging from 0 to 8 meters. The maximum depth recorded at this site is 8 meters. This makes it accessible for various certification levels looking for a shallower dive.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at Ilha Josefa?
Divers at Ilha Josefa can expect to explore a vibrant wall dive, known as 'costão.' The site boasts a great amount of sponges and corals, providing a colorful backdrop for an array of multicolored fish of small size. Commonly sighted marine life includes sergeants and reef groupers, among other diverse species. For more information on marine life, visit our wildlife database.
How difficult is diving at Ilha Josefa, and is it suitable for beginners?
Diving at Ilha Josefa is rated as intermediate difficulty. While its shallow depths might seem appealing, the 'intermediate' rating suggests it might require some prior experience or specific skills beyond entry-level certifications. Beginners should consult with a local dive center to assess suitability based on current conditions and their individual skill level.
What is the best time of year to dive at Ilha Josefa for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive at Ilha Josefa for optimal conditions. For general guidance on seasonal diving, you might find our When to Dive section helpful. We recommend checking local dive forecasts closer to your planned trip for the most current information.
What diving certifications are required to dive at Ilha Josefa?
The specific diving certifications required for Ilha Josefa are not detailed in the provided information. Given its intermediate difficulty and maximum depth of 8 meters, an Open Water Diver certification is generally sufficient for such depths. However, always confirm with a local dive operator for any specific requirements or recommendations.
What are the typical water conditions, visibility, and currents like at Ilha Josefa?
At Ilha Josefa, divers can expect an average visibility of 6 meters. The provided data does not specify typical water temperatures or current conditions. It is always advisable to check with local dive operators for the most up-to-date information on water conditions and currents before planning your dive.