Explore Lisbon Area

Diving in the Lisbon area offers an extraordinary underwater experience, blending diverse marine ecosystems with rich historical sites. The region is blessed with a variety of dive environments such as deep rocky reefs, walls, and intriguing underwater caves. One cannot overlook the impressive shipwrecks that tell tales of the past, with the River Gurara wreck being a must-see for history enthusiasts. Situated in Sesimbra, the diving mecca of Portugal, these sites cater to all levels, from beginners to seasoned divers, ensuring a thrilling adventure for everyone.

Lisbon’s underwater world is alive with fascinating marine life. Divers can encounter vibrant fish schools, curious octopuses, and the occasional sight of dolphins or the peculiar ocean sunfish, also known as mola mola. Spring to autumn is the best time to dive when water temperatures range from 16°C–22°C/60°F–71°F, providing comfortable conditions for exploration. While visibility typically ranges from 3–8 meters/10–26 feet, on good days, it can extend up to 15 meters/49 feet, unveiling the stunning underwater vistas in greater clarity. Lisbon’s diving scene is not just an activity but a gateway to the wonders of the Atlantic, making it a standout destination for diving enthusiasts.

Places to Explore

Sesimbra

31 Divesites 7 Centers

Excellent diving is found here at Arrábida Marine Park, where you can dive nearly year-roundand will discover wrecks and beautiful Atlantic reefs diving.

Upcoming Events

Diver Level Programs / Courses

Anthia Diving Center

Advanced Open Water Diver

15 Nov 2025

If you cannot decide which specialty programs are the best choice for you, join the SSI Advanced Open Water Diver program! You will try Deep Diving and Navigation plus a variety of 3 more specialty areas of choice before committing to full specialty training. It is a great way to experience what advanced diver training is all about and how valuable it can be to your diving adventures. During the Advanced Open Water Diver Program, you will experience 5 different specialties by completing one open water training dive per specialty after a comprehensive briefing with your SSI Instructor. By taking this program you will have total freedom to explore. You can complete the full Specialty trainings any time in the future and credit your Advanced Open Water Diver training towards them.

Diver Level Programs / Courses

Wind - Centro de Mergulho

Advanced Open Water Diver

23 Nov 2025 + 1 more

Diver Level Programs / Courses

Dive Club Cipreia - Outprostore LISBOA/SESIMBRA

Open Water Diver

07 Dec 2025

This globally recognized certification program is the best way to begin your lifelong adventures as a certified scuba diver. Personalized training is combined with in-water practice sessions to ensure you have the skills and experience required to become truly comfortable underwater. You will earn the SSI Open Water Diver certification.

Instructor Evaluation

Arrábida Experiences

Instructor Evaluation - IE

20 Dec 2025

Professional Level Programs / Courses

CNOCA

Assistant Instructor

12 Jan 2026

The Assistant Instructor rating is the next step after becoming a Divemaster along the scuba instructor pathway. It allows you to collect valuable teaching experience, practice briefings, teach academics, and conduct in-water training. If you want to further your career as a dive professional, you can finish the Instructor Training Course, pass the Instructor Evaluation, and become an Open Water Diving Instructor.

Top Dive Sites Map

★★★★★ Cathedral Cave

Five minutes from the harbour of Sagres, lies the Cathedral Cave. The spot counts with a mooring to anchor the boat. The dive begins with a depth of 15 m and it goes shallower as you enter the cave. The layout of the cavern is circular and it has two inside chambers of air, the biggest resembling a cathedral dome

★★★★☆ River Gurara Proa (Wreck)

River Gurara MV was a Nigerian cargo motor vessel that sank on 26th February 1989 in Cape Espichel, during a strong storm. The ship broke in the middle, keeping its bow near the coast. This dive site is of the bow of the ship and has an average depth of 28m.

★★★★☆ River Gurara Popa

River Gurara MV was a Nigerian cargo motor vessel that sank on 26th February 1989 in Cape Espichel, during a strong storm.The ship broke in the middle, keeping its stern near the coast at an average depth of 23mts.

Diving in Lisbon Area

In the Lisbon area, divers can explore a variety of fascinating sites that offer a blend of history, marine life, and underwater adventure. Notably, the "River Gurara" wreck is a must-see, lying off the coast of Sesimbra. This cargo ship sank in 1989 and now serves as an artificial reef, attracting a rich diversity of marine creatures. It's a popular choice for those interested in wreck diving, offering a thrilling underwater experience.

For those who prefer shore dives, Praia da Baleeira provides easy access and calm waters, perfect for spotting octopuses and seahorses. The Lisbon area also offers unique night diving experiences, where divers can witness the nocturnal habits of marine life. While shore diving is prevalent, liveaboard options are available, offering divers the chance to explore more secluded dive sites around the Lisbon coast in comfort and style.

The best Months to dive in Lisbon Area

The Lisbon area offers year-round diving opportunities, though conditions vary with the seasons. During summer, water temperatures range from 17°C–21°C/63°F–70°F, providing comfortable conditions for divers. Winter temperatures drop to 14°C/57°F, requiring thicker wetsuits. Visibility is generally moderate, averaging 10–15 meters/33–49 feet, but can decrease with strong winds or stormy weather.

Seasonal winds, notably the northerly "Nortada," can affect surface conditions, particularly in spring and summer, making some days less ideal for diving. Currents are typically mild, but divers should always check forecasts. While diving is possible year-round, autumn offers the calmest weather and best visibility, making it the most favorable period for underwater exploration.