Ponta do Alvo - Arraial do Cabo

Shetani, or Three Turtles as some call it, is a lovely little wall dive, maxing out at about 17m. We love it for its quiet charm. You drop down to a series of coral pinnacles draped in both hard and soft corals, a real garden of them. It's not a site that screams at you, but rather whispers. Take your time poking around the crevices and overhangs, because that’s where you’ll find the good stuff. We’ve seen plenty of blue-spotted rays tucked into the sand, and ribbon eels peeking out of their holes, their electric blue and yellow bodies swaying gently. The smaller coral fish here are just brilliant, a real splash of colour against the coral. Keep an eye out for cowries – we’ve spotted Snakehead Cowries before, and the Humpbacked Conches are pretty common too. It’s a relaxed dive, perfect for photographers wanting to focus on macro, or anyone who enjoys a gentle pace. Visibility averages around 12m, sometimes a bit more, but it’s always enough to appreciate the details.

Location
Arraial do Cabo, Brazil, South America
Coordinates
-23.114700, -44.292900
Type
reef

Marine Protected Area: Área De Relevante Interesse Ecológico Das Ilhas Cataguás

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 Ponta do Alvo

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 Ponta do Alvo

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 depths for diving at Ponta do Alvo?
At Ponta do Alvo, divers can expect a maximum depth of 10 meters. This makes it an accessible site for many divers, allowing for extended bottom times within recreational limits.
What marine life and underwater topography can divers expect to encounter at Ponta do Alvo?
Divers at Ponta do Alvo will explore the structures of an old pier and a prominent point known as Alvo, which locals identify as a nautical radar reflector. The site is a vibrant reef where you can often spot fascinating marine life such as sea horses, turtles, and sea stars, alongside various fish species like flying gunnards, salemas, bodiões, marimbas, and sergeants. For more information on marine species, visit our wildlife database.
Is Ponta do Alvo considered a difficult dive site, and is it suitable for all experience levels?
Ponta do Alvo is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive site. While not suitable for absolute beginners, divers with some experience will find it manageable and rewarding. It offers a good challenge for those looking to advance their skills.
When is the best time of year to go diving at Ponta do Alvo for good conditions?
Information regarding the best time of year to dive at Ponta do Alvo for optimal conditions is not available in our current data. We recommend checking local dive reports or contacting operators in Arraial do Cabo for up-to-date seasonal advice. You can also explore our general guide on when to dive for broader insights.
What diving certifications are needed to explore Ponta do Alvo?
The specific diving certifications required to explore Ponta do Alvo are not detailed in the provided data. Given its intermediate difficulty, an Open Water Diver certification is typically a minimum requirement for such sites, though advanced training might enhance the experience. Please consult with local dive centers in Arraial do Cabo for precise certification requirements.
What are the usual current and visibility conditions like at Ponta do Alvo?
At Ponta do Alvo, divers can generally expect an average visibility of 10 meters, offering clear views of the underwater environment. Details regarding typical current conditions for this specific site are not provided in our current data. It's always wise to check with local dive operators for real-time conditions before your dive.