Portugal boasts a rich maritime history, and with that history comes a number of shipwrecks. In addition, there are aircraft wrecks to dive. Here are just five favorites located along Portugal's Algarve Coast.
Wilhelm Krag - Portugal Dive Sites
The wreck of the Wilhelm Krag is one of the biggest wrecks in the area. One of four ships sunk by the German U-boat U-35 during the First World War, this big steam ship is accessible at a depth of 29 meters. Maximum depth is 36 meters, and all along the decks, you'll find everything from giant crabs to curious Conger eels.
Torvore Wreck - Portugal Dive Sites
Another of U-35's victims, the Torvore was lost on April 24 of 1917. You can still see part of this steamships cargo of compressed coal as you explore this wreck, which lies beneath 35 meters of water, and which shelters everything from lobsters to sea bass, and from Conger eels to massive sea bream.
Burgau Wreck - Portugal Dive Sites
Sitting in just 10 meters of water, and accessible at a depth of just 5 meters, the Burgau Wreck is filled with colorful life of all kinds. A simple barge lost in the 1980's while transporting a load of rocks, this wreck and its' cargo has become an amazing artificial reef that attracts everything from cuttlefish to baby conger eels.
IpiMar Wreck - Portugal Dive Sites
Deployed as an artificial reef in 1995, the IpiMar Wreck is 50 meters long, and is home to an incredible array of aquatic life. You will find large spider crabs and octopus here, along with nudibranchs, bream, sea bass, and many other types of fish. In addition you will find some large resident Conger eels as you explore. This ship was carefully prepared for divers prior to being sunk, and is suitable for penetration by those qualified to do so. Maximum depth is 30 meters, but the upper portion of the wreck can be accessed at a depth of just 22 meters.
Aeroplane Wreck B24 - Portugal Dive Sites
If you have ever seen a B-24 Liberator bomber in a museum or at an airshow, then you know just how spectacular this aircraft is. This particular B-24 bomber was lost on November 30 of 1943, during the Second World War. It was on the lookout for enemy submarines when it was shot down. Of the crew of 11 U.S. Navy aviators on board six were killed while the rest were saved by local fisherman. Now, lying 18 meters beneath the surface, the B-24 Liberator wreck is fragile, yet there are many features which are easily identified including the wings, the motors, and the landing gear. Watch for octopus, cuttlefish, crabs, and schools of fish all around the wreck, and look for the propellers and vertical helm which are located in the debris field a short distance away from the airplane's wings.
A very pleasant place to dive, the Algarve Coast of Portugal boasts clear water with visibility that averages close to 15 meters but which can reach 30 meters. For summer diving, a 7mm wetsuit works well, and for winter diving, a drysuit or semi-drysuit is recommended. There are quite a few dive centers in the region, and there are lots of different accommodations available. As this area is popular with visitors of all kinds, it is best to make reservations in advance, particularly if you plan to visit during the summer months.