Azores Geopark material describing Ilheus da Madalena as a protected volcanic geosite with tuff cones, lava flow features, and a crater-like submerged area.
Volcanic boat dive around lava islets off Madalena.
Volcanic boat dive around lava islets off Madalena.
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Ilheus da Madalena is a volcanic islet dive off Madalena where lava walls, submerged arches, and a crater-like basin concentrate fish life around the rock. The route is usually planned as a boat dive around the islets, with the best experience coming on calmer days when visibility stays open around the lava structures and cave sections.
Conservative baseline from public research. No community dives logged yet.
Depth range, seasonality, and planning context.
Reported Depth
3m - 18m
Depth Note
The route starts on shallow lava shelves around 3 m and drops to roughly 18 m around the crater and outer rock.
Typical Conditions
Expect a volcanic reef profile with lava fingers, caves, and a crater-like depression where current can increase fish activity around the rock.
Hazards, restrictions, and access requirements.
Key Hazards
Safety Notes
Expect wave and surge effects around the islands, especially with tidal movement. Use extra caution if attempting the swim-through and maintain good buoyancy and awareness of overhead sections.
Community notes to help plan your visit.
Scuba Diving
The main scuba route follows the outside of the islets and the crater area, with lava relief, arch-like features, and a possible swim-through when sea movement is settled enough.
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
Azores Geopark material describing Ilheus da Madalena as a protected volcanic geosite with tuff cones, lava flow features, and a crater-like submerged area.
Operator dive-site list describing Ilheus da Madalena as a boat-access Pico/Faial dive with visibility around 10-25 m, depth to 18 m, and moderate current.
Visit Azores dive-spot material describing Ilheus da Madalena with volcanic structure, cave passages, fish life, mild-to-strong current, and a 3-18 m depth profile.
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