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Banco João Lopes

Type:
Scuba DivingFreediving
Entry:⚓Boat Entry
Difficulty:Advanced
Tags:
PinnacleReef
About This Dive Spot

Banco João Lopes is an offshore reef on the north coast of Santa Maria, lying about one nautical mile northwest of Anjos. The reef top is around 14 m, with the surrounding seabed sloping down to about 40 m. Being farther from the coast, it can experience moderate to strong currents and is visited by wrasse species, schools of salema porgies, and blacktail combers.

Planning details
Reported depth and seasonality.

Reported depth

14m - 40m

Depth note

Reef top around 14 m with the seafloor dropping to about 40 m.

Typical conditions

Moderate to strong current can occur, especially given the site’s distance from shore.

Safety & access
Hazards, restrictions, and required precautions.

Hazards

Strong current

Safety notes

Currents can be moderate to strong, particularly due to the offshore location.

Where is this?
Map location of Banco João Lopes
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Community sourced coordinates.
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Local intel
Community notes to help plan your visit.

Tailored notes for different activities.

Scuba

Depth ranges from roughly 14 m on top of the reef down to around 40 m.

Dive Spot Log Averages
Average conditions based on logged dives & visits
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Dive Conditions Planner
Current snapshot, today hourly conditions, and seven-day planning data.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best entry point at Banco João Lopes?
Entry at Banco João Lopes is detailed in the spot description above. Look for specific landmarks, access paths, and any tide or condition requirements. Local divers often share updated entry tips in their dive logs.
What conditions are best for diving Banco João Lopes?
Optimal conditions at Banco João Lopes depend on several factors including tide, wind, and season. Check recent dive logs for current condition reports and patterns. Generally, calmer seas and high tide provide better visibility and easier entry.
What is the maximum depth and typical visibility at Banco João Lopes?
Depth and visibility information for Banco João Lopes can be found in the spot details and recent dive logs. Conditions can vary significantly based on weather, tide, and season. Always plan your dive according to current conditions and your certification level.
Are there any safety considerations or local etiquette at Banco João Lopes?
When diving Banco João Lopes, respect local regulations, marine life, and other water users. Be aware of any specific hazards like currents or boat traffic mentioned in the spot description. Follow Leave No Trace principles and local diving etiquette.