Nature Travels
Diving
dive trip Madeira
Your ultimate guide for the diving trip to Madeira: Discover the underwater world!
Do you dream of an unforgettable diving trip? Madeira offers crystal-clear waters, a diverse underwater world, and top-class dive centers. Discover the best spots and plan your adventure. If you would like personalized advice, get in touch here!
The topic briefly and concisely
Madeira offers spectacular diving spots for every level of experience, from beginners to seasoned divers. Discover the diverse underwater world and plan your unforgettable adventure.
Choose the right diving base (e.g. Manta Diving Madeira or Anthia Dive Center) and take advantage of attractive diving packages to save time and money. The right base can improve your diving skills with 2 new skills.
Combine your diving adventure with exploring the island, visit Funchal and enjoy the local cuisine. Pay attention to sustainability and protect the unique underwater world of Madeira.
Dive into the fascinating underwater world of Madeira! Discover everything about the best dive spots, accommodations, and offers for your unforgettable diving holiday.
Welcome to your ultimate guide for your diving trip to Madeira! The island of flowers is renowned not only for its breathtaking scenery but also for its fascinating underwater world that awaits your discovery. Whether you are an experienced diver or an enthusiastic beginner, Madeira offers you spectacular dive sites, attractive deals, and the best dive centres for an unforgettable diving holiday. Let the variety of marine life and the unique underwater landscape enchant you, and experience an adventure you will never forget.
This guide provides you with all the essential information you need to plan your diving trip to Madeira. We show you the best dive sites in Madeira, give you valuable tips on choosing the right dive centres in Madeira, and reveal how you can benefit from exclusive offers. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure beneath the sea's surface and discover the hidden treasures of the Atlantic. Your diving holiday in Madeira will be a complete success if you follow our recommendations.
Are you looking for inspiration for your next diving trip? Then you are in the right place. We have compiled the best spots and insider tips for you to ensure your diving holiday in Madeira becomes an unforgettable experience. Let's dive together into the fascinating underwater world and discover the beauty and diversity of the sea. With our help, your diving trip will become an unforgettable adventure that will captivate you.
Dive Base Guide: How to Find the Perfect Base for Your Madeira Diving Adventure
Choosing the right dive base in Madeira is crucial for a successful and safe diving experience. In Madeira, you will find a variety of professional dive bases that offer support and guidance. We introduce you to some of the best and show you what to consider when choosing, ensuring your diving holiday is smooth and unforgettable. A good dive base not only provides top-notch equipment but also experienced guides who lead you to the best spots.
Manta Diving Madeira is a German-speaking dive base located directly in the underwater nature reserve. Since 1982, it has been offering dives to the most beautiful spots on the island and is thus an institution for divers. The base is ISO certified according to EN 14467/ ISO 24803, ensuring the highest quality and transparency. From its location in Caniço de Baixo, you can easily reach various diving spots in Madeira, including a house reef with a cave tunnel, steep wall, and the 'arena'. Other spots are reachable by boat in 5-20 minutes, for instance, the Afonso Cerqueria wreck (approx. 35min). Here, you can find more information about Manta Diving Madeira.
The Anthia Dive Center in Machico offers personalised dives to over 20 different diving sites in Madeira. A speedy inflatable boat allows you to reach the spots quickly, giving you more time to dive. The centre is known for its detailed briefings and dive site models that make it easier for you to orient underwater. Learn more about the diving spots around Machico and discover the diversity of the underwater world. The Anthia Dive Center also offers 'double tank dives', allowing you to use the afternoon for other activities.
Besides these two bases, there are other options like the Atalaia Dive Base, located directly at the underwater national park, and the divers' lodge Klenks Café, a popular spot for divers. Discover more dive bases and find the right accommodation for your diving holiday. When selecting, pay attention to certifications, courses offered, and the proximity to the dive sites you wish to explore. This way, your diving holiday becomes an unforgettable experience.
Garajau: Discover the fascinating underwater reserve of Madeira – A paradise for divers!
The Garajau Underwater Reserve is undoubtedly one of the highlights for any diver in Madeira and should be at the top of your list. The nature reserve, established in 1986, is home to an impressive variety of marine life and offers unforgettable diving experiences. Here, you can observe large schools of bream, barracudas, trumpetfish, triggerfish, moray eels, and mackerels. Garajau is particularly renowned for its large groupers and the seasonal presence of Atlantic manta rays, making it one of the best Manta Diving Madeira spots in Europe.
The conservation measures in the reserve have led to the groupers becoming particularly large here, which is a clear indication of the success of conservation efforts. With a bit of luck, you can also spot manta rays here, which regularly inhabit the waters and offer an unforgettable experience. The Underwater Reserve is a must for any diver wanting to experience the diversity of Madeira's marine world. Learn more about Madeira's underwater world and plan your visit to the Garajau Reserve.
Alongside Garajau, there are other exciting diving spots in Madeira you can explore, each with its own charm. The Parede do Sardinha at the easternmost tip of the island offers steep rock formations and a rich marine diversity. The Baixa da Cruz, the house reef of the Anthia Dive Center, impresses with a large rock cone and black corals. Discover more exciting diving spots and plan your own diving adventure. Every dive site offers unique experiences and is worth exploring.
Diving packages: Find the right offer for your Madeira trip – Save time and money!
To make your diving holiday in Madeira perfect and get the most out of your trip, many diving centres in Madeira offer attractive diving packages. These usually include several dives, equipment, and possibly accommodation and meals. This way, you can focus entirely on diving without worrying about the logistics. The packages are often more economical than booking individually and provide extra convenience.
There are different types of diving packages tailored to various needs, ensuring that every diver finds the right offer. Dive hotels often offer all-inclusive packages with flights, transfers, and breakfast, which is ideal for relaxed holidaymakers. Dive centre packages typically include several dives with equipment and are perfect for divers who want to fully immerse themselves in the diving experience. At Manta Diving Madeira, for example, 6 dives cost €188, 10 dives €297, and an Open Water Diver course €460. At Klenks Café, there is a Madeira Summer Special with one week B&B in a double room, transfer, and 8 dives for €335 per person. Compare different offers and find the right package for you.
When selecting your diving package, you should pay attention to the included services, the duration of validity, and the cancellation policies to avoid unpleasant surprises. Also, learn about the diving sites in Madeira and the qualifications of the diving instructors to ensure you have a safe and unforgettable experience. This way, you ensure your diving holiday becomes an unforgettable adventure. Read our tips for choosing the perfect diving package and plan your dream holiday.
Logistics Checklist: How to Plan Your Travel and Accommodation in Madeira Optimally – Stress-Free to the Diving Paradise!
Careful planning is the be-all and end-all for a successful diving trip to Madeira so you can enjoy your holiday right from the start. We provide you with tips on arrival, local transport, and choosing the right accommodation. This allows you to focus on your diving adventure and fully enjoy the island. Meticulous planning saves time and stress and ensures a smooth process.
Funchal Airport is approximately 15 minutes from Caniço, where, for instance, Manta Diving Madeira is located, making the journey very convenient. Many hotels offer a transfer from the airport, so you don't have to worry about anything. Alternatively, you can take public buses to Funchal (about 35 minutes travel time) or book a rental car which is delivered directly to the hotel. Learn about the various transport options and choose the one that suits you best. A rental car gives you the flexibility to explore the island at your own pace.
When choosing your accommodation, you should consider the proximity to the diving centers on Madeira and the diving sites on Madeira to keep distances short. Some hotels offer direct sea access with elevators, which is particularly convenient. The Sentido Galomar Resort, for example, offers direct access to Manta Diving Madeira and is Portugal's first ‘GREEN-Hotel’ with A++ energy efficiency. Note that you should be careful when planning trips to high altitudes after diving, as this can increase the risk of decompression sickness. Read our tips on safe dive planning and enjoy your holiday to the fullest.
Experience Madeira: Discover the island above and below water – Your holiday double package!
Madeira not only has much to offer underwater, but also a fascinating landscape and culture to discover. Use your diving holiday to explore the island itself and collect unforgettable impressions. Visit Funchal, Monte, and Cabo Girão, try the local cuisine at restaurants in Funchal, or venture into canyoning and climbing. Seasonal attractions such as the Flower Festival and the Christmas season are also worth a visit and offer unique experiences.
The combination of a diving trip and island exploration makes your holiday an unforgettable experience that will remain long in your memory. Discover the diversity of Madeira and let yourself be enchanted by the beauty of the island. Find inspiration for your excursions in Madeira and plan your activities in advance. This way, you can make the most of your holiday and experience the island in all its facets.
Even if you are mainly in Madeira for the diving, you should take the time to get to know the island and enjoy its unique atmosphere. The unique landscape, friendly people, and diverse leisure opportunities will captivate you. Plan your activities in advance to make the most of your holiday. Discover more tips for your perfect diving holiday and be amazed by the diversity of Madeira.
Sustainability: Protect Madeira's underwater world while diving – Your contribution matters!
The protection of the marine environment is an important concern for us and should also be a priority for you if you wish to experience the beauty of the underwater world. You too can contribute by behaving responsibly and respecting nature. Each dive offers the opportunity to protect and preserve the environment.
The underwater nature reserve plays a crucial role in protecting Madeira's marine environment and significantly contributes to the conservation of biodiversity and the underwater landscape. Support environmentally friendly dive centres like the Sentido Galomar, which is energy self-sufficient and integrated into nature. Learn more about sustainable tourism in Madeira and choose eco-conscious providers. Your contribution helps preserve the underwater world for future generations.
While diving, you should be careful not to touch any corals or marine creatures and avoid littering, so as not to disturb the fragile underwater world. Familiarise yourself with the code of conduct for divers and contribute to ensuring that Madeira's underwater world remains preserved for future generations. Read our tips for responsible diving and become part of the movement for sustainable dive tourism. Your behaviour underwater directly impacts the health of the ecosystem.
Freediving: Discover the freedom of diving without equipment – A new dimension underwater!
For all those seeking a special challenge and wanting to experience the sea in a new way, Madeira also offers opportunities for freediving. Here, you dive without an oxygen tank and experience the underwater world in a completely new manner. Manta Diving Madeira, for example, offers freediving courses and stations at depths between 10 and 30 metres. Freediving requires courage, skill, and a deep connection with the sea.
Freediving requires good physical fitness and special training to dive safely and responsibly. You learn to hold your breath, relax your body, and move safely underwater. The reward is a unique feeling of freedom and connection with the sea. Discover more information about freediving and find out if this sport suits you. Freediving is more than just diving; it's a way of life.
If you are interested in freediving in Madeira, you should thoroughly inform yourself in advance and take a course at a qualified diving centre to learn the necessary skills. This ensures that you learn the techniques correctly and move safely underwater. Read our tips for beginners in freediving and start your adventure into the world of freediving. With the right preparation and guidance, you can experience the freedom of diving without equipment.
Start your diving adventure in Madeira now! – Book today and secure unforgettable experiences!
Are you ready for your unforgettable diving trip to Madeira? With this guide, you have all the essential information you need to plan your holiday. Discover Madeira’s fascinating underwater world, find the best dive centres in Madeira, and take advantage of exclusive offers. Your dream holiday is waiting for you!
Whether you are an experienced diver or an enthusiastic beginner, Madeira offers you breathtaking dive spots and unforgettable experiences. Let yourself be enchanted by the variety of marine life and the unique underwater landscape. Plan your diving adventure in Madeira now and experience the beauty of the Atlantic. Your holiday will become an unforgettable experience that you will never forget.
What are you waiting for? Contact us today to plan your bespoke diving trip and get advice from our experts. We are happy to help you choose the right dive centre, the best dive sites, and suitable accommodation. Register for free and receive a non-binding offer for your dream diving holiday immediately. Start your adventure now and dive into the fascinating world of Madeira.
Further useful links
On the page of tauchen.de, you will find more information about Madeira's underwater world.
rcf-tauchreisen.de offers information on active holidays in Madeira.
FAQ
What prerequisites do I need for a diving trip to Madeira?
For a diving trip to Madeira, you need a valid diving certificate (Brevet) and a logbook. If you have pre-existing health conditions (e.g. Covid, heart, lung, blood pressure problems, diabetes) or take medications regularly, a diving fitness certificate is required. Manta Diving Madeira, for example, requires proof of diving fitness.
Which diving spots are particularly recommended in Madeira?
The top diving spots in Madeira include the Garajau Underwater Reserve (known for groupers and manta rays), the Parede do Sardinha (steep rock formations) and the Baixa da Cruz (house reef of the Anthia Dive Center). The Garajau Reserve is particularly famous for its large groupers and seasonal mantas.
Which dive centres are recommended in Madeira?
Recommended dive centres in Madeira include Manta Diving Madeira (German-speaking, ISO-certified, in the underwater nature reserve) and the Anthia Dive Center (individual dives, fast boat trips). The Atalaia Dive Centre is located directly at the underwater national park.
What types of dive packages are available and what do they include?
There are various dive packages, including all-inclusive packages with flight, transfer and breakfast (often offered by dive hotels), as well as dive centre packages with several dives and equipment. At Manta Diving Madeira, for example, 6 dives cost €188.
How do I best plan travel and accommodation for my diving trip?
Funchal Airport is about 15 minutes from Caniço (e.g. Manta Diving Madeira). Many hotels offer transfers. Alternatively, there are public buses or rental cars. When choosing accommodation, pay attention to the proximity to the dive centres and diving spots.
What should I consider when planning trips to high altitudes after diving?
After diving, be cautious about planning trips to high altitudes, as this can increase the risk of decompression sickness. Restrict such excursions to non-diving days.
How can I make my diving holiday in Madeira more sustainable?
Support eco-friendly dive centres like Sentido Galomar, which is self-powered. Avoid touching corals or marine life and ensure not to leave any litter.
Are there opportunities for freediving in Madeira?
Yes, Manta Diving Madeira offers freediving courses and stations at depths between 10 and 30 meters. Freediving requires good physical fitness and specialised training.