Puerto Madryn and Golfo Nuevo

Before boarding, confirm operator authorization, site selection, equipment fit, buddy and instructor supervision, gas and thermal plans, surface-marker procedure, sea conditions, weather turnaround rule, emergency oxygen and recovery arrangements. A published 20 m to 30 m wreck description is not a suitable profile for every certified diver. Do not enter wreck overhead areas as part of ordinary recreational sightseeing. Never conduct breath-hold training alone, and use a qualified apnea safety team for freediving. Wildlife observations must be passive. Municipal enabled-service guidance; scientific safety context.

Hospital Zonal Dr. Andres Isola operates a 24-hour emergency service in Puerto Madryn and directs medical emergencies to 107. The Argentine Navy confirmed on 17 October 2026 that a shared-use hyperbaric chamber is installed at the hospital under a renewed agreement through October 2027. That does not guarantee staffing, operational capacity or immediate recompression at a particular hour. For suspected decompression illness or other serious dive incidents, stop diving, activate emergency response, have qualified staff administer emergency oxygen when appropriate, and let medical professionals coordinate evacuation and chamber treatment. For nautical emergencies call Prefectura 106.

Punta Loma is a protected sea lion colony; observe from the lookout or with properly enabled guided snorkeling, without chasing, feeding, grabbing or trying to create contact. The published scientific study warns that intrusive approaches can disturb sea lions and create bite and zoonotic risks. At El Doradillo, the municipal management rules prohibit entering water and nautical activities June through December, and restrict disturbance, dogs and drones; respect designated roads, paths and ranger instructions. Puerto Piramides marine operations have separate authorities and booking contexts. El Doradillo visitor rules; Punta Loma reserve; Punta Loma study.