Alvarenga - Fernando de Noronha

Alvarenga is a fascinating wreck, and for us, it's a solid choice if you're looking for something a bit different in Noronha. This isn't some perfectly preserved ghost ship; it's the remains of an old iron frigate that went down over a century ago. You drop onto a seabed at around 19 meters, and there it is – the scattered, but still substantial, hull of the Alvarenga. We love finning slowly around the twisted metal, imagining the rigging and sails that once propelled it. It feels genuinely historical. Visibility here averages about 12 meters, sometimes a touch more, which gives the whole scene a wonderfully atmospheric, slightly moody feel. Inside the larger sections, you’ll find schools of Atlantic thread herring swirling, a silver curtain against the dark iron. Keep an eye out for green turtles, they often glide past the wreck, using it as a landmark. It's a relaxed dive, suitable for most divers looking for a glimpse into the past, and a chance to see how nature reclaims man-made structures.

Location
Fernando de Noronha, Brazil, South America
Coordinates
-7.958800, -34.676300
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
15-30m

Wreck History - Alvarenga

Vessel Type
warship
Cause
unknown

The Alvarenga is a wreck steeped in the mystery of a bygone era. Described as an old iron-hulled frigate powered entirely by sail, she hails from a time of transition, when navies were moving from wood to metal but had not yet abandoned the majesty of sail. Her history and the cause of her sinking are lost to time, adding a layer of intrigue to any dive. The vessel now lies on a sandy bottom at 24 meters, with the highest parts of the wreck rising to about 19 meters, making it an ideal multi-level dive.

For divers in the waters of Brazil, the Alvarenga offers a journey back to the 19th century. The hull is reported to be remarkably well-preserved, allowing divers to trace the elegant lines of a sailing warship. Exploring the deck, one can almost imagine the towering masts and complex rigging that once propelled her across the Atlantic. Without a known history, the wreck itself tells the story, inviting divers to speculate on its final voyage and the storm or misfortune that brought it to its final resting place.

Marine Protected Area: Área De Relevante Interesse Ecológico Orla Marítima

Best Time to Dive in Fernando de Noronha

The warmest water temperatures in Fernando de Noronha occur in April, averaging 29.1°C. The coolest conditions are in September at 26.9°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 28.1°C
  • February: 28.6°C
  • March: 28.9°C
  • April: 29.1°C
  • May: 28.7°C
  • June: 28.2°C
  • July: 27.4°C
  • August: 27.0°C
  • September: 26.9°C
  • October: 27.1°C
  • November: 27.6°C
  • December: 27.9°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Fernando de Noronha

Nearest Dive Centres to Alvarenga

Marine Life in Fernando de Noronha

Home to 45 recorded species including 42 reef fish, 1 seagrass & algae, 1 hard corals, 1 other.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Alvarenga

Based on average water temperature of 28.0°C, currents 29 cm/s.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 28°C water needs minimal exposure protection
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins (stiff blade recommended for strong currents)
  • 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 for diving the Alvarenga shipwreck in João Pessoa?
The Alvarenga shipwreck is located in Fernando de Noronha, Brazil, not João Pessoa. Divers can expect a maximum diving depth of 19 meters on the wreck itself, although the frigate lies at a depth of 24 meters on the seabed. This historic wreck offers a unique exploration opportunity.
What kind of marine life can divers expect to see at the Alvarenga shipwreck site?
At the Alvarenga shipwreck, divers can encounter a variety of marine life seeking shelter amidst the wreckage. Specifically, you can expect to see rays and shoals of xiras and enxadas. For more information on marine species, visit our wildlife database.
How difficult is the Alvarenga shipwreck dive, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
The Alvarenga shipwreck dive is rated as intermediate difficulty. Due to its depth range of 15-30 meters and the nature of wreck diving, it is generally not recommended for beginner divers. Divers should possess appropriate experience and certification for intermediate-level dives.
What is the best time of year to dive the Alvarenga shipwreck for optimal conditions?
Information regarding the best time of year to dive the Alvarenga shipwreck for optimal conditions is not available in the provided data. We recommend checking our When to Dive section for general guidance on dive seasons in Brazil.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive the Alvarenga shipwreck?
The specific scuba diving certifications required to dive the Alvarenga shipwreck are not detailed in the provided information. However, given its intermediate difficulty and depth range of 15-30 meters, an Advanced Open Water Diver certification or equivalent is typically recommended. Always consult with a local dive operator for precise requirements and equipment needs.
What are the typical currents and visibility conditions at the Alvarenga shipwreck dive site?
At the Alvarenga shipwreck dive site, divers can expect an average visibility of 12 meters. Information regarding typical current conditions at this specific site is not provided in the available data. It's always advisable to check local conditions with your dive center before planning your dive.