Arraial do Cabo

Key Risks and How to Manage Them

• Thermoclines: Upwelling can create rapid temperature drops. Add exposure protection and plan shorter bottom times if you start shivering.
• Currents and surge: Some channels and points can move. Ask for a site briefing, agree on turn pressure, and stay close to the guide.
• Boat traffic: Carry an SMB and deploy it if your plan includes drifting or surfacing away from the mooring.
• Sea state: South swell can cancel boats. Keep a flexible itinerary and do not pressure operators to run in unsafe conditions.

Recommended Best Practices

• Dive Nitrox if certified and available for repetitive mornings.
• Use a computer, and keep ascent rates conservative.
• Avoid touching rock or reef, especially in surge zones.
• For freediving, never train alone. Use a buddy, buoy, and lanyard for depth work.

Medical Care

Arraial do Cabo has local urgent-care options, but serious cases may be transferred to larger hospitals in Cabo Frio or Rio de Janeiro.

Decompression Illness Planning

• Call local emergency services first (SAMU 192) and follow operator procedures.
• Contact DAN if you have coverage. They can help coordinate evacuation and identify the most appropriate hyperbaric facility.
• Bring your dive computer data and a written profile of the dive series.

Practical Tip

Save offline maps and keep your accommodations address handy. Mobile coverage can be inconsistent at remote beaches.