Ilhabela dive sites

The Bonete wreck, also known as the Dartagnan, is a cargo vessel that sank off the southern coast of Ilhabela near the remote Praia do Bonete. The wreck rests at approximately 25 metres depth on a rocky bottom and has become an artificial reef supporting diverse marine life including large groupers, moray eels, and schooling fish.

The site's exposed position on Ilhabela's ocean-facing southern coast means strong currents, significant swells, and variable visibility. Dives can only be conducted when weather and ocean conditions align, which limits the diving window. The 25 metre depth combined with the current demands solid experience and good air management.

Ilhabela is known as a graveyard of ships, with over 20 documented wrecks along its coastline. The most accessible include the Aymore at 9 metres depth for beginners and the Dartagnan at 25 metres. Advanced divers can explore the Prince of Asturias, a luxury liner that sank in 1916, though it sits at depths exceeding 40 metres and requires technical certification.

Absolutely. Ilha das Cabras is one of Brazil's best beginner dive sites. The maximum depth is only 12 metres, currents are minimal, and the shore entry from Pedras Miudas beach is straightforward. The site has been an ecological sanctuary since 1992, so marine life is abundant and accustomed to divers. Many local dive schools use this as their training site.

A bronze statue of Neptune (Poseidon) was placed at 7 metres depth between the island and the beach as part of the ecological sanctuary. It has become one of the most photographed underwater landmarks in Brazil. The statue is easily accessible to both scuba divers and confident snorkellers, making it a popular attraction.