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Dive one of Madeira’s most recognised artificial reefs on a guided boat trip to the Corveta Afonso Cerqueira. This former Portuguese Navy warship now lies south of Cabo Girão and offers both external exploration and controlled interior penetration for suitably experienced divers.
After check-in 15 minutes before departure, equipment is prepared and a detailed wreck briefing is delivered. This includes entry and exit procedures, orientation points on the structure, depth profile, and safety considerations specific to wreck diving.
The Corveta Afonso Cerqueira was intentionally sunk in 2018 to create an artificial reef and diving attraction. The structure remains in excellent condition. Divers can explore the outer decks, railings, and superstructure where most marine life congregates, including groupers, barracuda, rays, and schooling fish.
For appropriately experienced divers, selected internal areas such as corridors and compartments may be accessible under guide supervision. The wreck hosted the European Underwater Photography Championship in 2022 and is widely regarded as one of the Atlantic’s standout wreck dives due to its scale, accessibility, and marine growth.
The wreck lies south of Cabo Girão off Madeira’s south coast and is protected as part of a designated marine area. Its depth range makes it accessible to recreational divers while still offering structure and scale.
Departure is from central Funchal, close to the cruise terminal, making this dive particularly convenient for visiting divers.
Participants must hold an Open Water Diver certification (or equivalent) and have logged at least six dives. Certification must be presented digitally or physically on arrival.
If you have not dived within the past 12 months, a refresher dive is required before joining this trip.
With a maximum 6:1 diver-to-guide ratio, briefings are structured and dive plans are adapted to diver experience. Clear guidance is provided for both external and potential internal exploration.
Tanks and weights are included, and departure logistics are streamlined from Funchal, allowing efficient access to one of Madeira’s most recognised dive sites.
A wreck specialty certification is not mandatory for external exploration.
However, penetration into enclosed areas is subject to experience and guide approval.
The average diving depth is between 15 and 20 metres.
Depth varies slightly depending on which part of the structure is explored.
Open Water Divers with at least six logged dives may participate.
Comfort in buoyancy control is important due to proximity to structure.
The wreck acts as an artificial reef supporting groupers, barracuda, rays, and reef fish.
Marine life density has increased steadily since the sinking.
Tanks and weights are included.
Full rental equipment is available separately if required.
If you have not dived within 12 months, a refresher dive is mandatory.
This ensures safety before participating in a wreck dive.
Yes, a marine reserve fee of €5 and national park entrance fee apply.
These support conservation and site management.
Yes, the departure location is close to Funchal’s cruise terminal.
Scheduling allows for efficient turnaround.
Bottom time depends on air consumption and dive profile.
Total trip duration is approximately 2 hours 30 minutes.
Bring your certification card (digital or physical).
Swimwear, towel, and personal dive computer are recommended.
About the centre
Funchal
Operated by Azul Diving Madeira, a partner of adventuro.
Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire, United Kingdom
From £45
