Madeira diving travel guide
Everything you need to know before your first dive in Madeira — from when to visit, to certifications, to picking the right operator for your level.
When to visit
Diving in Madeira is possible year-round, but the best conditions run from May to October. Water temperatures climb from 18 °C in spring to a balmy 23 °C in late summer, with visibility frequently exceeding 25 m on the south coast.
What to bring
- Certification card and dive logbook
- 3 mm wetsuit in summer, 5 mm in winter
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- Underwater camera — visibility rewards it!
Choosing a dive site
New divers should head to the Garajau Marine Reserve or the sheltered reef at Ilhéu do Desembarcadouro. Certified divers chasing big experiences should book the Madeirense and Corveta wrecks off Porto Santo, or the full-day expedition to the Desertas Islands.
Choosing a school
All three schools featured on this guide are PADI- or SSI-certified, run small groups, speak English, and provide hotel pickup in the Funchal area. Pick by location (closest to your hotel), language preference, or the specific sites you want to dive.
Safety & conservation
Madeira's marine reserves exist because divers respect them. Never touch wildlife, maintain neutral buoyancy, and choose operators with sustainable practices like reef cleanups and small group sizes.