Madeira wreck-diving overview with Porto Santo conditions and visibility.
Sheltered artificial-reef wreck off Porto Santo.
Sheltered artificial-reef wreck off Porto Santo.
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Local wreck operators are the normal way to reach the site and brief the penetration options.
Cordeca (Wreck) is a deliberately scuttled navy corvette off Porto Santo that now works as a sheltered artificial-reef wreck. The wreck is intact enough to give you swim-through feel without turning into a full penetration dive, and the structure is wrapped in sponges and growing reef life. It is known for clear water, schooling fish, and bigger visitors like barracuda and rays around the wreck. This is a straightforward recreational wreck dive rather than a deep technical one.
Conservative baseline from public research. No community dives logged yet.
Depth range, seasonality, and planning context.
Reported Depth
15m - 30m
Depth Note
The top of the wreck is around 15m and the bottom around 30m, with a largely intact corvette profile.
Best Season
Year-round; clear-water windows and calm seas make it more rewarding.
Typical Conditions
Usually sheltered from current and wind, with clear water and a stable wreck profile.
Hazards, restrictions, and access requirements.
Key Hazards
Safety Notes
Watch buoyancy around the archways and any internal spaces, and plan around the wreck's overhead sections.
Access Restrictions
Penetration and line handling should follow local wreck-diving practice; use a qualified operator if you want to go inside.
Legal Notes
The wreck sits within Porto Santo's marine-protected-area network, so follow local wreck and mooring rules.
Community notes to help plan your visit.
Scuba Diving
Recreational wreck diving around a largely intact navy corvette, with easy swim-throughs and the option for limited penetration.
Freediving
Not suitable for freediving because of the wreck depth and overhead sections.
Snorkeling
Not a snorkel site; the wreck sits beyond casual surface range.
Species commonly reported at this site, with direct links into their wildlife guides.
Community dive logs and visit reports for this site.
Average conditions based on logged dives & visits.
Planning answers for access, conditions, timing, and site logistics.
Last Updated
Research Sources
Madeira wreck-diving overview with Porto Santo conditions and visibility.
Independent feature on Porto Santo wreck-diving and protected-area context.
Travel guide for the Porto Santo wreck dive with penetration and fish-life notes.
Portugal Dive wreck profile for the corvette General Pereira d'Eça / Cordeca.
Artificial-reef wreck profile near Vila Baleira.
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