Funchal: Advanced Scuba Diving Afonso Cerqueira Wreck

If you’re craving a really unique underwater adventure while visiting Madeira, the Afonso Cerqueira wreck offers a fascinating glimpse into maritime history and vibrant marine life. This tour, run by Azul Diving Madeira, promises an exciting dive into a sunken ship turned artificial reef, with the opportunity to explore its engine room, captain’s deck, and even its cafeteria. It’s a fantastic choice if you’re an experienced diver eager to add a wreck dive to your record and see Madeira from an entirely different perspective.

What really draws us in is the combination of marine ecology, history, and adventure. Plus, the knowledgeable guides and stunning views have earned this experience an impressive 4.9-star rating from fellow divers. That said, keep in mind that this experience is specifically designed for certified divers with experience, so it’s not suitable for complete beginners. If you’re comfortable with your diving skills and crave a memorable, authentic underwater exploration, this tour could be perfect for you.

Key Points

• Authentic wreck exploration with entry into the engine room and captain’s deck
• Marine life thriving around the artificial reef, offering vibrant underwater sights
• Well-organized experience with friendly, knowledgeable guides
• Suitable for certified divers with logged dives within the last year
• Value for money at $63 per person, including boat ride, tanks, and insurance
• Practical details like rental equipment and park fees are straightforward

An In-Depth Look at the Madeira Afonso Cerqueira Wreck Tour

What makes this tour stand out?

This is a certified diver’s dream. For those with a valid Open Water certification, Azul Diving Center offers a chance to explore a massive 85-meter-long ship that has been transformed into a lively underwater habitat. The fact that you can enter the ship’s engine room, cafeteria, and captain’s deck makes this an immersive experience. Unlike shallow reef snorkeling or beginner-friendly courses, this is an advanced dive that will satisfy those looking for a more technical, history-rich adventure.

The scenery above water is equally appealing, with the boat cruise providing fresh ocean breezes and panoramic views of Madeira’s coast, most notably the Cabo Girao Cliff, adding a scenic backdrop to the entire experience.

What’s included and what’s not?

For $63 per person, you receive a boat ride to the wreck site, your air tank (12 or 15 liters at 200 bars), your weight system, and insurance coverage. The cost is quite reasonable considering the specialty nature of this dive and the professional guidance involved.

However, you’ll need to rent your dive equipment separately if you don’t own your own, and there’s a small national park fee of 3 euros. The tour doesn’t include hotel pickup, food, or drinks, so plan accordingly. The check-in is at Azul Diving Center in Funchal, which simplifies logistics, and the entire experience lasts around 2 hours, with specific start times depending on availability.

How does the itinerary unfold?

The tour kicks off at Azul Diving Center Madeira, where you’ll meet your guides—who are fluent in English and highly praised for their friendliness and professionalism. After a safety briefing and equipment setup, you’ll cruise out towards the wreck, passing scenic coastal views.

The second stop on the journey is the Cabo Girao Cliff, a dramatic vantage point that offers a stunning backdrop and a chance to appreciate the island’s rugged beauty before diving. Once at the dive site, you’ll make your descent, with a maximum depth of 30 meters—a perfect depth for experienced divers to explore the wreck thoroughly.

What can you expect during the dive?

The Afonso Cerqueira wreck is not just a relic; it’s a thriving artificial reef that supports a vibrant ecosystem. As you swim around, you’ll encounter a diverse array of marine life, thanks to the reef’s protected status.

Guides will take you inside the wreck, allowing you to observe the engine room’s intricate machinery, the cafeteria’s remnants, and the captain’s deck, making this a genuinely immersive experience. The clarity of the water and abundance of colorful fish make for stunning photos—if you have an underwater camera, this is a must.

What do previous divers say?

One diver, Alessandre Dos, shared, “Really enjoyed the wreck – 100% an activity I would recommend. Everyone from the dive center was friendly and our guides were top-notch. I will definitely be coming back.” This highlights the quality of guides and the overall positive vibe of the tour. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendly approach, making even experienced divers feel comfortable and well looked after.

Who is this experience best suited for?

Given the advanced certification requirement and logged recent dives, this tour is tailored for experienced divers looking to push their limits and explore something more than just shallow reefs. The small group size, professional instruction, and safety measures ensure a secure environment, but it’s not designed for complete beginners.

Practical Tips for Your Dive Experience

• Make sure your diving certification is current, with at least 6 logged dives in the past 12 months.
• If you don’t own diving gear, rent it directly at the shop beforehand—it’s straightforward.
• Arrive at least 15 minutes early at Azul Diving Center to prepare and get your equipment sorted.
• Remember to bring your dive certification card and, if you wish, an underwater camera to capture the spectacular sights.
• Plan for small additional costs like the park fee (3 euros), and note that hotel pickup isn’t included—you’ll need to make your own way to the dive center.
• The 2-hour duration includes boat ride, briefing, dive, and return, so prepare for a full but manageable adventure.
• Due to safety regulations, alcohol and drugs are not allowed on the day of diving.

The Sum Up

This Madeira wreck tour with Azul Diving offers a rare opportunity for certified divers to explore a historic ship turned lively reef. It combines adventure, education, and natural beauty into a compact, well-organized experience that consistently earns high praise. The friendly guides, impressive marine life, and authentic wreck exploration make it a standout choice for those with existing diving experience.

While it isn’t suitable for beginners, experienced divers seeking a memorable, technical dive will find this tour well worth considering. The overall value, at just $63, includes a boat ride, tanks, insurance, and the chance to see Madeira from a totally unique perspective.

If you love history, marine ecology, and adventure, this wreck exploration promises a rewarding day out in the Atlantic waters off Funchal. Be prepared for a visually stunning journey that could become a highlight of your trip.

FAQ

Who is this tour suitable for?
It’s designed for certified divers with a minimum of 6 logged dives in the past year. It’s not suitable for beginners or non-divers.

Is the tour expensive?
At $63 per person, it offers good value for the experience, including boat transport, tanks, and insurance.

Do I need my own diving gear?
No, but you can rent equipment at the shop if you prefer. Rental gear is available on-site.

What is the maximum depth?
You will be diving up to 30 meters, which is suitable for experienced divers.

Are there any extra costs?
Yes, there’s a small national park fee of 3 euros. Equipment rental and personal expenses are separate.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, you need to arrive at the Azul Diving Center on your own.

What should I bring?
Bring your certification card, underwater camera if you like, and be prepared for a 2-hour experience.

What is the guide’s language?
Guides speak English fluently, ensuring clear communication throughout.

What makes this wreck special?
It’s a large, accessible ship with interior entry points, making it exciting to explore and perfect for divers wanting a more technical, immersive experience.

This Madeira wreck tour is a fantastic blend of adventure and education. Whether you’re a seasoned diver looking to add a memorable wreck experience or someone eager to see Madeira’s underwater history, it’s a well-organized, highly-rated option worth considering.