This dive site, known as 'The Wall', is a captivating underwater location in Portugal, specifically off the coast of São Miguel Island in the Azores. It features a dramatic wall that starts at a shallow depth of 12 meters and descends to a bottom composed of a mixture of sand and rocks at approximately 28 meters. Divers navigate along the wall, exploring its unique topography and the vibrant ecosystem it supports. There is no specific historical background provided for this site, but its natural formation offers a dynamic diving experience.
The marine life here is diverse, with the walls adorned by striking black coral formations. Divers can expect to encounter fascinating creatures such as the elusive Slipper lobster, two banded seabream, and the colourful ballan wrasse. Other inhabitants include the distinctive barred hogfish, planehead filefish, and spiny spider crab. The site is also notable for the possibility of spotting passing pelagic marine life, adding an element of excitement to each dive.
The best time to visit 'The Wall' generally aligns with the Azores' summer months (June to September) when water temperatures are milder and sea conditions are calmer, though diving is possible year-round. This site is particularly suitable for freedivers due to its wall structure and varying depths down to 23 meters. For scuba divers, the potential for drift diving means careful planning and good buoyancy control are essential to fully enjoy the rich biodiversity and unique geological features of this impressive underwater wall.
