Funchal, the vibrant capital of Madeira, offers certified divers an exhilarating opportunity to explore the wreck of the F488 Frigate. This 2.5-hour adventure provides a scenic boat ride to the Cabo Girao Cliff dive site, where divers can enjoy the artificial reef teeming with marine life. With a maximum of six divers per group, this personalized experience ensures divers receive attentive guidance from experienced instructors. Whether you’re seeking an adrenaline-fueled adventure or a chance to marvel at the underwater world, this wreck dive promises an unforgettable journey beneath the surface.
Key Points
- Wreck dive on decommissioned navy frigate F488, suitable for certified divers with dive experience within the last 12 months.
- 2.5-hour dive activity with a cost of $47.04 per person, including tank, weights, and dive guide.
- Dive site located at Cabo Girao Cliff, with a 10-15 minute boat cruise from the starting point at Madeira Divepoint.
- Small group size of up to 6 divers for a personalized experience, with dive equipment available for additional fee.
- Free cancellation policy up to 24 hours prior, with no upfront payment required for the reservation.
Activity Overview
The article details a wreck dive on the F488 Frigate, a dive activity suitable for certified divers.
The dive lasts 2.5 hours and costs $47.04 per person. Divers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours prior, and they can reserve their spot without any upfront payment.
This wreck dive offers a world-class scuba experience, as the decommissioned navy frigate has been transformed into an artificial reef designed specifically for divers.
The dive includes penetrations and highlight-photo spots, making it an enticing option for those with the necessary certification.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Funchal.
Dive Experience
A world-class wreck dive awaits certified divers on the decommissioned navy frigate F488.
Serving as an artificial reef, the wreck has been designed specifically for scuba enthusiasts. The dive includes opportunities for penetrations and highlight-photo spots, providing an exhilarating underwater adventure.
However, it’s important to note that this experience is only suitable for those who’ve dived within the last 12 months. Divers who need a refresher can opt for the shore dive option.
With the dive computer mandatory and a dive torch available as an optional extra, certified adventurers are set for an unforgettable exploration of the F488 wreck.
Itinerary
Starting location for the wreck dive is Madeira Divepoint – Dive&Snorkel, located within the Pestana Carlton hotel in Funchal. After a safety briefing and gear preparation, you will board a boat for a 10-15 minute cruise to the dive site at Cabo Girao Cliff. There, they’ll embark on the scuba diving experience, exploring the decommissioned F488 Frigate artificial reef. Once the dive is complete, the group will return to the dive center.
Step | Duration |
---|---|
Safety briefing and gear preparation | – |
Boat cruise to dive site | 10-15 minutes |
Scuba diving experience | – |
Return to dive center | – |
Total duration | 2.5 hours |
Inclusions
Included in the price are the tank and weights, with full equipment available on-site for an additional fee.
The wreck dive package also includes:
- A boat trip to the dive site at Cabo Girao Cliff
- A dive guide to lead the excursion
- Dive insurance and the National Park Entrance Fee
- A mandatory dive computer to track depth and time
- An optional dive torch for enhanced visibility during the wreck penetration.
These inclusions ensure a worry-free and well-equipped dive experience for certified participants.
The small group size, limited to 6 divers, provides a personalized and safe exploration of the F488 Frigate wreck.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyImportant Information
The meeting point for this excursion is the dive center inside the Pestana Carlton hotel.
Divers must bring their swimwear, towel, and diving certification to participate.
The dive instructor can provide guidance in English, Portuguese, German, and Spanish.
The group size is limited to 6 participants to ensure a personalized experience.
It’s important to note that this activity is only suitable for certified divers.
Those without certification can consider the Try Scuba Diving Experience, which is designed for non-certified individuals.
- Full-Day Jeep 4×4: Amazing West Full-Day Tour to Natural Pools
- Porto Moniz – Enchanted Terraces: Open 4×4 Full Day Tour
- Dolphin – Whale – Turtle – Bird Watching
- Small Group West Tour Waterfalls & Fanal Forest Tour
- Private Dolphin and Whale Watching Tour in Madeira
- Around The Island – Two Days Tour From 9am To 5pm (Each Day)
Booking and Cancellation
Customers can book their spot on the Funchal: Wreck Dive F488 Frigate experience with no upfront payment, reserving their place now and paying later. This flexible booking option allows divers to secure their dive without any immediate financial commitment.
The experience offers:
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours prior for a full refund
- Prices starting from $47.04 per person
- Duration of 2.5 hours
- World-class wreck dive on a decommissioned navy frigate
- Small group size limited to 6 participants
With these convenient booking terms and inclusions, the Funchal: Wreck Dive F488 Frigate is an accessible and hassle-free option for certified divers looking to explore this artificial reef.
Additional Notes
Although the Funchal: Wreck Dive F488 Frigate experience is suitable for certified divers, it’s important to consider certain additional requirements.
Participants must have completed a dive within the last 12 months or complete a shore dive for a refresher. The dive is limited to a group size of 6 individuals, so early booking is recommended.
Divers must bring their own swimwear and towel, and the instructor can provide guidance in English, Portuguese, German, or Spanish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Scuba Equipment?
Yes, divers can bring their own scuba equipment. However, full rental equipment is available on-site for a fee if needed. The dive package includes essential components like tanks and weights.
Are There Any Prerequisites for This Dive?
There are prerequisites for this dive. Divers must have certification and have dived within the last 12 months. However, a shore dive refresher is available for those needing it.
Is There a Maximum Depth for the Wreck Dive?
The maximum depth for the wreck dive is not specified. The activity requires certified divers who’ve dived within the last 12 months. A shore dive option is available for those needing a refresher.
Can I Request a Specific Dive Time Slot?
Yes, divers can request a specific dive time slot, though availability may be limited. The operator schedules multiple dive times throughout the day to accommodate diverse preferences and group sizes.
Are There Any Health Restrictions for This Activity?
There are no specific health restrictions for this activity, but divers must be certified and have dived within the last 12 months. Those needing a refresher can opt for the available shore dive option.
Recap
Diving the F488 Frigate wreck in Funchal is a thrilling adventure for certified divers. With a scenic boat ride, personalized attention from a guide, and the chance to explore an artificial reef, this 2.5-hour experience offers an unforgettable underwater experience. Ensure you have the necessary diving experience and come prepared to make the most of this premier dive destination.
You can check if your dates are available here:More Tour Reviews in Funchal
Not for you? Here's more things to do in Funchal we have recnetly reviewed
- 3 Best Canoe And Kayak Experiences In Funchal
- Best Craft Beer Tours And Tastings In Funchal
- 3 Best Dining Experiences In Funchal
- 3 Best Dinner Tours In Funchal
- 5 Best Shopping Tours In Funchal
- 20 Best Full-Day Tours In Funchal
- 3 Best 2 Day Tours In Funchal
- 4 Best Lunch Experiences In Funchal
- 4 Best Food Tours In Funchal
- 13 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Funchal
- Funchal: Guarantee Wild Dolphin&Whale Watching by RIB
- Funchal: Jet Ski Circuit