Explore one of Madeira’s most protected and biodiverse dive areas on a guided two-dive boat trip to Garajau Marine Reserve. Known for consistent visibility and varied topography, this is a strong choice for certified divers seeking marine life encounters and structured boat diving close to Funchal.
The morning begins with check-in and equipment preparation before boarding the dive boat for Garajau Marine Reserve. After a site briefing covering entry, depth profile, navigation, and marine life, you’ll complete your first guided dive at a site selected based on conditions and experience levels.
Garajau is well known for its abundance of large groupers, stingrays, moray eels, barracuda, parrotfish and trumpetfish. Pelagic visitors such as tuna may also appear. The area’s protected status supports healthy marine ecosystems, and it has hosted international underwater photography competitions due to its reliable visibility and subject variety.
A relaxed surface interval is taken between dives before completing the second dive at a different site within the reserve. Popular sites include T-Reef, Cape Garajau, Pinaculo, Garajau Drift, Blue Hole, and Sardine Plateau. The trip returns to Funchal around 13:00.
Diving takes place within Garajau Marine Reserve, one of Madeira’s most important conservation zones. The reserve’s regulations limit fishing and protect marine habitats, contributing to stable fish populations and good underwater conditions.
Departure is from central Funchal, just minutes from the cruise ship terminal, making this trip particularly convenient for visiting divers. Exact meeting details are provided after booking.
Participants must hold a recognised Open Water Diver certification (or equivalent) and have logged at least six dives. Certification must be presented digitally or physically on arrival.
Divers who have not dived within the past 12 months are required to complete a refresher programme before joining the boat dives. A standard diving medical declaration applies.
With a maximum guide ratio of 6:1, dives remain structured and well supervised without overcrowding. Briefings are thorough, and dive plans are adapted to diver experience and daily conditions.
The location offers direct access from Funchal, efficient turnaround times, and a strong combination of reef structure and marine life density. It’s a practical and well-managed way to experience one of Madeira’s flagship dive areas.
About the centre
Funchal
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