Double Dive the Fantastic Ocean Revival Park

If you’ve ever dreamed of exploring sunken ships and getting up close with historic wrecks, the Double Dive at Ocean Revival Park in Lagos offers an authentic experience that enthusiasts will appreciate. This 4-hour adventure, organized by Portugal Dive, takes certified advanced divers into one of Europe’s premier wreck sites, offering not just a glimpse but a full immersion beneath the waves.

What sets this tour apart? The small group size of just six divers means you’ll receive personalized attention—no crowded boat here. Plus, the fact that all equipment is provided makes it easier to just show up ready to explore. That said, the experience is tailored for advanced open water divers, so if you’re still working on your certification, this might not be the tour for you. For seasoned wreck lovers wanting a well-organized, intimate, and authentic underwater experience, it hits the mark.

One possible consideration? The visibility can vary—around 3 meters in some reviews—which might not be ideal if you’re expecting crystal-clear waters. However, the uniqueness of the site and the chance to see four sunken navy vessels more than makes up for that.

This tour is perfect for divers with an advanced certification who want to tick off a top European wreck site from their bucket list. If you’re just starting out or non-certified, there are alternative experiences like a “try dive” available, but this particular excursion emphasizes serious wreck exploration for certified divers.

Key Points

• Small Group Experience: Maximum of 6 divers for a more personal and relaxed atmosphere.
• All Equipment Provided: No need to bring your own gear; just show up ready to explore.
• Convenient Pickup: Hotel pickup from Portimão saves energy and time.
• Authentic Wreck Site: Home to four sunken navy ships, designed to attract wreck enthusiasts.
• Professional Setup: Well-maintained boats and equipment, with a knowledgeable team.
• Good for Certified Divers: Requires Advanced Open Water Diver certification, not suitable for beginners.

The Details of the Tour

Location and Meeting Point

The adventure begins at Passeio dos Descobrimentos 16 in Lagos, Portugal. From here, you’ll be transported to the dive site, typically within 20-30 minutes by speed boat. The convenience of hotel pickup from Portimão means you avoid the hassle of organizing transport—allowing you to focus on what really matters: sinking into the adventure.

Duration and Timing

This experience lasts roughly 4 hours, which includes preparation, briefing, and the two dives. Operating daily from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, the flexible schedule means you can choose a time that suits your plans, and weather considerations are important—poor weather could lead to cancellations with a full refund or rescheduling.

Group Size and Atmosphere

With a limit of just 6 divers per trip, the atmosphere is intimate. This smaller group size allows the guides to give individual attention, making it ideal for those who prefer a more personal touch rather than the crowded dives common elsewhere.

Equipment and Safety

One of the big perks is not needing to pack your own gear. Portugal Dive provides well-maintained equipment, and their professional team ensures safety standards are met. Reviews mention the “very well maintained equipment” and a “professional, well-organized set up,” which is reassuring for divers looking for a reliable operator.

The Wrecks and Underwater Experience

The Ocean Revival Park is renowned for its four sunken navy vessels, intentionally sunk to create an artificial reef and attract wreck-diving fans. It’s considered one of Europe’s top wreck sites, offering a variety of wreck sizes and depths, suited for advanced divers comfortable with exploring submerged structures.

The wrecks are positioned within a manageable distance for your two dives, allowing you to thoroughly explore each without feeling rushed. Reviewers note that the site is well-organized and accessible, with plenty of marine life around the wrecks—adding to the visual interest.

What You’ll See and Experience

Expect to see large, historic ships with plenty of nooks and crannies for fish and marine creatures to hide. One reviewer mentioned “a bit of fish on the wrecks,” and while visibility can vary, the underwater landscape offers an intriguing mix of man-made structures and natural marine life.

In terms of underwater conditions, one reviewer noted visibility was around 3 meters. While not ideal for everyone, many feel that the unique nature of the wrecks and the chance to explore real military vessels outweigh the limitations of water clarity.

The Guides and Professionalism

Based on reviews, the team at Portugal Dive is highly professional. One reviewer praised the “very good dive boat,” and both highlighted how well-organized and safety-conscious the setup is. Their emphasis on a “worry-free” experience means you can relax and enjoy your two dives without stress.

Cost and Value

At $162.60 per person, the price reflects the inclusion of all equipment, boat transport, and a guided, small-group experience. Considering the exclusivity of the site and the quality of organization, this represents good value—especially for certified divers seeking an authentic wreck exploration.

What the Reviews Say

One reviewer from TripAdvisor described the experience as “fair with several large wrecks within 20-30 minutes by speedboat,” and pointed out that the visibility was variable. Despite that, the overall experience was positive, especially for those interested in wrecks rather than pristine visibility. Another mentioned the “very well maintained equipment” and the professional setup, indicating high standards in operational safety and quality.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour targets advanced open water divers who are comfortable with wreck exploration. It’s less suitable for novices or non-certified divers unless opting for a supervised “try dive.” If your goal is to explore real military ships with historical interest and a personal touch, this trip delivers. The small group size and professional staff make it appealing for those who value a more tailored experience.

In summary, this experience is ideal if you want high-quality, authentic wreck diving—especially if you’re a seasoned diver seeking a well-organized, memorable adventure in Europe’s top wreck site.

FAQs about the Ocean Revival Wreck Dives

Do I need any special certification?
Yes, you need an Advanced Open Water Diver certification to participate. It’s designed for experienced divers ready for the challenges of wreck exploration.

Is equipment provided?
Yes, all necessary scuba gear is included, which means you won’t need to bring your own.

How many dives are included?
This tour features two wreck dives, allowing ample time to explore different vessels within the park.

What if the weather is bad?
Weather can impact the experience. If conditions are poor, the activity might be canceled, but you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

How many people are in each group?
Groups are limited to 6 divers, ensuring a personalized experience and attention from the guides.

Can non-certified divers participate?
They can choose a “try dive” experience, but this specific tour is for certified advanced divers.

Where does the tour start?
From Passeio dos Descobrimentos 16 in Lagos, with transport arranged from Portimão hotels.

What is the typical duration?
Approximately 4 hours, including preparation, briefing, and two dives.

Final Thoughts

The Double Dive at Ocean Revival Park offers a compelling option for experienced wreck enthusiasts visiting the Algarve. Its small, well-organized setup, combined with the chance to explore four sunken ships, makes it stand out among dive options in Portugal. While visibility might not always be perfect, the historic wrecks and the chance for a personalized experience more than compensate.

If you’re an adventurous diver with a taste for history and a sense of exploration, this tour will likely satisfy your craving for underwater adventure. It’s a chance to see some of Europe’s most interesting wrecks, guided by professionals who prioritize safety and quality.

For those new to diving or without certification, there are other options, but for seasoned divers looking for a serious underwater adventure, this is a solid choice. Prepare for a memorable, authentic dive into Portugal’s maritime past, and enjoy the thrill of discovering sunken ships in a beautiful setting.

Whether you’re chasing wrecks or simply want a nicely organized, small-group diving experience, this tour is worth considering. Just remember to check your certification, factor in the weather, and be ready for an unforgettable underwater journey.