Explore the intentionally sunk Afonso Cerqueira off Madeira—a shallow, accessible wreck teeming with groupers, morays, octopus and schooling pelagics. This guided 3‑hour dive trip suits certified recreational divers seeking dramatic structure with photographic opportunities.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Salt on your lips and the hum of the outboard set the pace as the boat pushes away from Funchal. Sea spray scissors the air, and within minutes the island's basalt cliffs blur into a horizon of blue. The Afonso Cerqueira sits below, a hulking silhouette at 12–30 meters where light pools and fish weave through steel ribs.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness: able to carry kit, perform controlled entries/exits, and complete dives to 30m with a buddy.
Wildlife
History
The Afonso Cerqueira was a Portuguese Navy corvette intentionally sunk in 2018 to create an eco-friendly artificial reef and diving attraction.
Conservation
Operators emphasize no‑take policies and controlled access; artificial reefs can concentrate diving impact, so follow guide instructions, avoid contact with life, and use reef‑safe sunscreen.
Reserve your spot on the Dive trip Afonso Cerqueira Wreck for certified divers today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Confirm certification and experience
Bring your dive card and logbook; the operator requires certification and may ask about recent dives or deep experience due to 12–30m depths.
Check your weight and exposure
Water temperatures can drop with depth—use appropriate exposure protection and adjust weights during the briefing for neutral buoyancy around the wreck.
Follow the guide for site limits
The wreck is intended for exterior exploration—do not attempt unplanned penetration; follow line and guide instructions to avoid entanglement.
Plan for a safety stop
Schedule your second dive or surface time to include a controlled 3‑5 minute safety stop at 5 metres and log gas consumption carefully.
Wetsuit (5mm or semi-dry)
Keeps you warm at depth where thermoclines can reduce temperature significantly.
Dive computer
Monitors depth and no‑decompression limits for safe bottom time on a 12–30m wreck dive.
Mask and snorkel
Clear mask fit improves underwater visibility and comfort during surface transit.
Underwater camera or housing
Compact systems capture groupers and the wreck’s structure in the often-clear Madeiran water.