

Best for intermediate divers, 12-45m, boat entry, moderate current.
Baixa das Castanhetas features diverse underwater topography including a reef, canyon, cave systems, and a drop-off ranging from 12 to 45 metres. Located 500 metres from shore, this site requires boat access. Divers experience moderate currents and visibility typically between 10 and 25 metres. Water temperatures fluctuate between 17C and 21C throughout the year. Due to the presence of caves and deep sections, this site is classified as an intermediate dive requiring solid buoyancy control and careful gas planning for overhead environments. Night diving is possible at this location.
37.70492, -25.50343
The site is a maze of interlinked caverns, tunnels and gorges located less than 500 metres from the coast.
15 minutes from the Vila Franca do Campo Marina, 30 minutes from the Ponta Delgada Marina.
Recorded at this site
Depth
12-45m
Visibility
10-25m
Skill Level
Intermediate
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
17-21°C
Current
Moderate
Typical Dive
45 min
Best Time
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
No, this site is rated for intermediate divers due to the presence of deep sections, overhead cave environments, and moderate currents.
The topography ranges from 12 to 45 metres, with an average depth of 16 metres.
This is a boat-only dive site located 500 metres from the shore.
The site is primarily a dive location with depths reaching 45 metres and overhead cave environments, making it unsuitable for snorkelling.
The main hazards include the deep nature of the site and the overhead environment presented by the cave systems.
Diving at Baixa das Castanhetas in Vila Franca do Campo requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
A 7mm wetsuit or semi-dry is recommended for diving at Baixa das Castanhetas in Vila Franca do Campo. Water temperatures range from 17°C to 21°C.
The best months to visit Baixa das Castanhetas in Vila Franca do Campo are June, July, August, and September. Conditions outside these months can still be good but are less predictable.
Expect moderate currents at Baixa das Castanhetas in Vila Franca do Campo. Good buoyancy control and some drift diving experience is helpful.
Visibility at Baixa das Castanhetas in Vila Franca do Campo typically ranges from 10 metres to 25 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.