Centro dive sites

Open Water divers can enjoy shallower sites at 10 to 15 metres, while the deeper walls and pinnacles reaching 35 metres require Advanced Open Water certification. Currents around the islands can be moderate to strong, so good buoyancy skills are important. All diving must be arranged through authorised operators due to the marine reserve regulations.

The best conditions are from June to October when water temperatures reach 17 to 20 degrees Celsius and visibility averages 15 to 25 metres. July and August offer the warmest water and most settled weather. The islands are exposed to Atlantic weather, so crossings from Peniche can be cancelled in rough conditions. Sunfish are most commonly seen from July to September.

Dive boats depart from the fishing town of Peniche, about an hour's drive north of Lisbon. The crossing takes 30 to 45 minutes. Day trips typically include two dives with a surface interval on the main island. Accommodation on the island itself is very limited, so most divers stay in Peniche.