

Best for beginner divers, 20-40m, shore entry, mild current.
Porto Novo is a shore-entry reef dive located off the coast of Madeira. The site features a reef structure that descends from 20 to 40 metres, with an average depth of 20 metres. Divers can expect consistent visibility of 30 metres and mild currents, making it suitable for beginners, though divers should remain mindful of their depth limits. Water temperatures range between 19 and 23 degrees Celsius throughout the year. The site is also accessible for night dives. Divers should exercise caution regarding stonefish, which have been recorded at this location, and ensure all equipment is prepared before arrival as facilities are not confirmed on-site.
32.66262, -16.80475
Watch where you put your hands and feet around the reef, as stonefish have been recorded at this site and their camouflage makes them easy to miss. Facilities are not confirmed, so sort out your gear and check air at the dive centre before heading to the entry point.
Access is available via shore or boat depending on the specific site.
Recorded at this site
Depth
20-40m
Visibility
30m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Shore
Water Temp
19-23°C
Current
Mild
Typical Dive
50 min
Best Time
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Stonefish have been recorded at this site, so divers should be careful where they place their hands and feet due to their effective camouflage.
Yes, the site is suitable for beginners, though the reef extends to 40 metres, so divers must stay within their certified depth limits.
The reef ranges from 20 to 40 metres deep, with an average depth of 20 metres.
Porto Novo is a shore-entry dive site.
The site is primarily a dive location with depths starting at 20 metres, making it less suitable for snorkelling.
Diving at Porto Novo in Funchal requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
A 5mm wetsuit is recommended for diving at Porto Novo in Funchal. Water temperatures range from 19°C to 23°C.
The best months to visit Porto Novo in Funchal are June, July, August, and September. Conditions outside these months can still be good but are less predictable.
Divers at Porto Novo in Funchal should be aware of stonefish. These encounters are generally rare and avoidable with proper awareness. Follow local safety guidance and maintain a respectful distance from all marine life.
Porto Novo in Funchal typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.
Visibility at Porto Novo in Funchal typically ranges from 30 metres to 30 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.