Jardim dos Corais - Alcatrazes - Arraial do Cabo

Marilyn’s Cut holds a special spot in our logbooks. It’s a Bloody Bay Marine Park staple, and for good reason. We love dropping onto the wall here, feeling that familiar sense of scale as the reef drops away beneath you. The star attraction for us is always the large swim-through, a fantastic, wide tunnel that lets you glide through, watching schools of French Grunts and Spot Snapper shimmer in the shaft of light from the surface. Keep an eye out for the resident Chain Moray often peeking from crevices. We’ve had some great encounters with Spaghetti Eels here too, their bodies flowing out from coral heads. Visibility is generally excellent, often pushing past 25 metres, giving you incredible views of the wall’s contours and the abundant Elkhorn and Rose Corals. You’ll definitely spot parrotfish crunching away, and if you’re lucky, a turtle might drift by. The site is pretty chill, with depths rarely pushing past 23m, so it’s a comfortable dive for nearly everyone. We find it’s best enjoyed mid-morning, just as the sun really starts to illuminate the wall. This site delivers classic Caribbean wall diving with a touch of adventure, perfect for divers who appreciate dramatic topography and a lively reef.

Location
Arraial do Cabo, Brazil, South America
Coordinates
-24.096000, -45.692800
Type
reef

Marine Protected Area: Refúgio De Vida Silvestre Do Arquipélago De Alcatrazes

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 Jardim dos Corais - Alcatrazes

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 Jardim dos Corais - Alcatrazes

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 is the typical diving depth at Jardim dos Corais - Alcatrazes?
The maximum recommended diving depth at Jardim dos Corais - Alcatrazes is 13 meters. While the seabed itself varies approximately from 10 to 23 meters, divers typically explore within the shallower, more accessible range. Always consult your dive operator for the most current site conditions and depth recommendations.
What kind of marine life and corals can divers expect to see at Jardim dos Corais - Alcatrazes?
Divers visiting Jardim dos Corais - Alcatrazes can expect to observe large colonies of brain and other corals. This site uniquely depicts the seabed as it was 30 years ago, showcasing species that are now threatened with extinction. For more information on marine species, visit our wildlife database.
Is Jardim dos Corais - Alcatrazes considered a difficult dive site, or is it suitable for beginner divers?
Jardim dos Corais - Alcatrazes is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive site. While it is relatively sheltered, the varying conditions mean it may not be ideal for absolute beginner divers without proper supervision or experience. Divers should be comfortable with moderate conditions.
What is the best time of year to dive at Jardim dos Corais - Alcatrazes for optimal conditions and marine life sightings?
When planning a dive at Jardim dos Corais - Alcatrazes, be aware that waters can be cold in winter, and thermoclines are common in summer. The provided data does not specify a "best time" for optimal conditions or marine life sightings. For general guidance on seasonal diving, you can explore our when to dive section.
What scuba diving certifications are required or recommended to dive at Jardim dos Corais - Alcatrazes?
The specific certifications required or recommended for diving at Jardim dos Corais - Alcatrazes are not explicitly stated in the available data. However, given its classification as an intermediate dive site, divers should possess at least an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent experience. Always confirm with your local dive operator before planning your trip.
What are the typical water conditions, currents, and visibility like at Jardim dos Corais - Alcatrazes?
Jardim dos Corais - Alcatrazes is generally a relatively sheltered dive spot. Water conditions can vary, with cold waters in winter and common thermoclines during summer months. Average visibility is approximately 12 meters, but divers should always consult with the dive operator regarding current conditions on site, as currents can be a factor.