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

Funchal: Wreck Dive F488 Frigate - Certified Divers - 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.
You can check if your dates are available here:

Activity Overview

Funchal: Wreck Dive F488 Frigate - Certified Divers - 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.

Dive Experience

Funchal: Wreck Dive F488 Frigate - Certified Divers - 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

Funchal: Wreck Dive F488 Frigate - Certified Divers - 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

Funchal: Wreck Dive F488 Frigate - Certified Divers - 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.

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Important Information

Funchal: Wreck Dive F488 Frigate - Certified Divers - Important 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.

Booking and Cancellation

Funchal: Wreck Dive F488 Frigate - Certified Divers - 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

Funchal: Wreck Dive F488 Frigate - Certified Divers - 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

Funchal: Wreck Dive F488 Frigate - Certified Divers - 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

Funchal: Wreck Dive F488 Frigate - Certified Divers - 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: