Quinta do Lorde

Gentle beginner dive with varied topography and rich macro life.

- Access
12m Avg Depth
18m Max Depth

About this dive site

This dive site, located in Caniçal, Machico, next to Quinta do Lorde hotel, offers a gentle diving experience. The depth ranges from 5 to 18 meters, making it ideal for beginners. The area features a rocky bottom transitioning into sandy areas, providing a unique environment. During the dive you can observe various marine life including damselfish (Abudefduf luridus and Chromis limbata), turkish wrasse (Thalassoma pavo), arrow crab (Stenorhynchus lanceolatus) and others. A notable feature is the possibility of encountering butterfly rays (Gymnura altavela) and common stingrays (Dasyatis pastinaca) in the west, alongside the interesting transition between rocky and sandy substrates. Returning along a slight arch associated with a small cave reveals fascinating inhabitants like anemones (Telmactatis cricoides), atlantic dancing shrimp (Cyrtocinetes rigens), and golden shrimp (Stenopus spinosus).

Diving Freediving Snorkeling

Site Ratings

Big Marine Life Good
Macro Marine Life Very Good
Landscape Quality Excellent
Water Visibility Very Good Viz
Famousness Well Known

Plan Your Visit

beginner friendlymacro photographyraysshore divecavernwide angle

Marine Life

damselfishturkish wrassearrow crabbutterfly raycommon stingrayanemoneatlantic dancing shrimpgolden shrimptrumpetfishpipefishoctopusgarden eels

Things to Note

Difficulty:

Beginner

Shallow depth (5-18m), gentle conditions, and easy access make it perfect for new divers and training.

Hazards:
boat traffic
Current Strength:

Mild

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