Explore Recife

Diving in Recife offers an unparalleled adventure for those eager to explore beneath the waves. Known as "the Venice of Brazil" due to its intricate network of waterways, Recife is surrounded by reefs, or "recifes," from which it derives its name. The underwater world here is a treasure trove of over 100 shipwrecks, with more than 30 accessible to divers. These wrecks range from historical vessels dating back to the 19th century to more recent, intentionally sunk ships, providing a rich tapestry for exploration. The majority of these wrecks meet their fate naturally, often colliding with the surrounding reefs, adding an element of history and mystery to each dive.

The waters around Recife boast high visibility and remain warm throughout the year, creating ideal conditions for diving. However, the ocean can be rough, making some wrecks more suitable for experienced divers. From September to May, Recife offers the best sailing conditions, enhancing the overall diving experience. Beyond the underwater allure, the region's vibrant culture, delicious local cuisine, and historical attractions, like the nearby UNESCO World Heritage Site of Olinda, enrich any visit. Whether you are drawn by the thrill of wreck diving or the joy of experiencing a vivid underwater ecosystem, Recife promises a dive journey like no other.

Dive Sites Show on map

SSI Service Center Brazil, 13211-693 Jundiaí SP

Servemar X (★4.6)

The tugboat Servemar X was sunk in 2002, along with two other tugs, Lupus and Minuano, which are also located in Recife. This wreck is in navigation position and very well maintained. This dive is made between 20 and 25 meters and may have the presence of current.

SSI Service Center Brazil, 13211-693 Jundiaí SP

Taurus e Virgo (★4.7)

Due to the proximity of these two wrecks, about 20 meters apart, it is very common for divers to visit both in a single dive. The dive is relatively shallow, being made around 20 meters deep, with great safety for possible penetrations and guaranteed fun.

SSI Service Center Brazil, 13211-693 Jundiaí SP

Vapor de Baixo (★4.7)

It is not possible to correctly determine the name and date of this shipwreck. Probably she was a small wheeled tugboat, with steam propulsion. She is correctly supported on the bottom and although most of the parts are buried, the engines and boilers are almost intact and in the correct position. Not to be missed!

Mares, Janez Kranjc

Galeao Sao Paulo (★3.7)

Old Galleon, from the beginning of the 17th century, sank at the Cabo de Santo Agostinho in a depth of 19 meters, its wooden hull no longer exists, only cannons and anchors, corals and many fish are found. It was already explored by pirates, thinking it was the Santa Rosa Galleon.

Scubapro

Draga Massangana (★0.0)

This dredge accidentally sank in 1981 after helping to found the Suape harbour. It is located in the direction of Cabo de Santo Agostinho, around 11 meters deep. This wreck is upside down, so divers should be careful when visiting this site.

Mares

Veleiro Yemanja (★5.0)

Iron sailboat, named Yemanjá, sunk on purpose in May 1999, in front of Pina Beach, lies at a depth of 19 meters. This wreck is partially dismantled, and some parts can be identified, such as masts, mooring heads and cavername.

Aqualung

Virgo (★4.3)

The tugboat Virgo lies on the bottom in a sailing position only 20 meters away from the tugboat Taurus, so in a single dive two wrecks can be visited. Large mooring bollards can be seen in the bow and the hull is in one piece, with a control room on top.

Mares

Phoenix (★4.6)

The tugboat Phoenix is part of the Artificial Wreck Park of Pernambuco and was sunk next to the tugboats Bellatrix and São José, distant from each other in a few meters. This wreck is in navigational position and very well preserved. It can be seen the casario with command room, chimney, rudder and more.

Mares

Walsa (★4.9)

The Walsa is a tug similar to the Saveiros and Mercurios, sunk with the purpose of being part of the Artificial Wreck Park of Pernambuco. It lies at a depth of 40 meters and is very well preserved due to the excellent sinking. This is a great spot for technical and deep dives.

Mares, Janez Kranjc

Alvarenga (★4.7)

Old iron frigate, fully powered by sail, sank in front of Olinda beach, 15km away. Today it lies at a depth of 24 meters and its hull is preserved.

Diving in Recife

Recife is known for its wreck- diving. The long reef that runs parallel to the harbor of Recife has claimed many ships over the past couple centuries. There are twelve wrecks of war galleons, steamships, tugboats, and barges from 1887–1986 just off the coast that can be easily reached by boat through a local dive shop (there are not many, however).

The best Months to Dive in Recife

The waters off the coast of Recife, where the wrecks are located, have great visibility and are warm year-round, with an average of 25°C/77°F. For this reason, diving here is possible throughout the year.

If diving at the renowned Fernando de Noronha, aim for August through November for the best conditions on the northern side of the main island, or January through March for ideal conditions on the south side.