Taurus e Virgo - Fernando de Noronha

Whalers Bay is classic Kaikōura diving, and for us, it's a standout for a few reasons. The site sits just around the corner from South Bay, a quick boat hop, and immediately you’re into thick kelp forests draped over rocky reefs. It’s a completely different vibe than some of the deeper offshore stuff; here, the focus is on macro and the resident characters. We love finning slowly through the kelp, keeping an eye out for the Kaikoura-specific Pug-nosed Eels peeking from crevices, or the wonderfully camouflaged Snakeskin Chitons clinging to rocks. You’ll spot Wandering Anemones, Royal Albatrosses often soar overhead, and we’ve seen countless inquisitive New Zealand Fur Seals here. They absolutely own this bay, often zipping past or resting on the surface. Visibility averages around 6m, which sounds low, but it actually enhances the experience. It creates this atmospheric, moody environment, making every discovery feel more intimate. The sand channels between the kelp are worth exploring for crabs and unique pipehorses. This site suits divers who appreciate a slower pace, enjoying the hunt for smaller, fascinating creatures in a vibrant, cool-water ecosystem. It’s also incredibly sheltered, making it a reliable option when other sites are too exposed.

Location
Fernando de Noronha, Brazil, South America
Coordinates
-8.079100, -34.700500

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 Taurus e Virgo

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 Taurus e Virgo

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