Top Dive Sites

Baía do Sancho

Description: Often described as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, Baía do Sancho is equally stunning below the surface. The dive site boasts crystal clear waters, expansive coral reefs, and an array of dramatic drop-offs and underwater canyons.

Marine Species: Here, you can expect to see a variety of species such as hawksbill and green turtles, reef sharks, and an abundance of colorful reef fish including parrotfish, angelfish, and butterflyfish.

Unique Encounters: This site is known for frequent visits from dolphins, especially spinner dolphins, offering an exhilarating underwater experience. During certain seasons, manta rays and whale sharks also make appearances.

Photography: The clear waters and abundant marine life make this a fantastic spot for underwater photography. Vibrant coral formations and the possibility of capturing images of playful dolphins add to the allure.

Suitability: This site is suitable for divers of all levels, from beginners to advanced, due to its varying depths and relatively calm conditions.

Pedra da Sereia

Description: Translated as Mermaid’s Rock, Pedra da Sereia is a fantastic dive site featuring underwater pinnacles, rugged rocky outcrops, and beautiful coral gardens. The site’s intriguing topography offers an adventure for exploratory divers.

Marine Species: You’ll encounter large schools of jacks, barracudas, moray eels, and lobsters. The site is also home to various crustaceans and small invertebrates that furnish the reef ecosystem.

Unique Encounters: One of the highlights is encountering marble rays and sizable groupers hiding in the crevices. Occasionally, you may spot nurse sharks and eagle rays gliding through the waters.

Photography: The diverse topography combined with the rich marine life provides ample opportunities for exceptional underwater photographs. Macro photographers will enjoy capturing the smaller critters that inhabit this site.

Suitability: Best suited for intermediate to advanced divers due to the site’s uneven terrain and moderate currents, which might be challenging for novices.

Laje dos Dois Irmãos

Description: A popular site named after the iconic Two Brothers Rocks that dominate the landscape. Laje dos Dois Irmãos features walls, swim-throughs, and small caves that add an element of excitement to the dive.

Marine Species: Expect to see reef sharks, vibrantly colored parrotfish, squirrelfish, and snappers. Turtles are also a frequent sight, often seen calmly grazing on the coral reef.

Unique Encounters: The site offers the unique opportunity to see larger pelagic species such as yellowfin tuna and even the occasional visiting hammerhead shark. Whale sightings are reported during the migration season.

Photography: The dramatic underwater landscape provides stunning backdrops for underwater photography. The swim-throughs and caves make great settings for capturing unique and engaging photos.

Suitability: Suitable for advanced divers due to its depth and occasional strong currents. It offers a thrilling experience for those looking for more challenging dives.

Considerations for Each Dive Site

Water Temperature: Fernando de Noronha boasts tropical waters with temperatures typically ranging between 77-82°F (25-28°C) year-round. This makes it suitable for divers to explore the underwater world comfortably without needing heavy thermal protection.

Visibility: Visibility in the waters around Fernando de Noronha is generally exceptional, often extending up to 100 feet (30 meters) or more. This clarity enhances the diving experience, allowing you to fully appreciate the vibrant marine life and stunning underwater landscapes.

Currents and Tides: Currents in Fernando de Noronha can vary considerably. While some sites, especially those located on the leeward side of the main island, exhibit mild currents, others, particularly on the windward side, might have stronger currents. It’s crucial to check current conditions and plan dives accordingly. Tidal changes can also affect dive conditions, so integration of tides into trip planning can help ensure the best experience.

Safety Tips:

• Ensure you have a local dive guide familiar with the specific currents and underwater terrain.
• Always dive with a buddy and keep an eye on your depth and air supply.
• Stay hydrated and well-rested before diving, as the combination of sun, saltwater, and diving can be physically demanding.
• Be aware of the potential for strong currents and plan your dives accordingly, especially if you are an inexperienced diver.
• Watch out for potential underwater hazards like sharp corals and marine life that should be respected from a distance, such as lionfish and certain types of rays.

Regulations: Fernando de Noronha is a protected marine area, and there are specific regulations to preserve its pristine environment. Divers must adhere to these rules:

• All divers are required to have a valid permit to dive within the national park boundaries.
• Touching or disturbing marine life and corals is strictly prohibited.
• Use reef-safe sunscreen to prevent damage to coral reefs.
• Follow guidelines set by the local authority regarding the maximum number of divers per site to minimize the impact on the ecosystem.
• Dispose of any waste properly and be conscious of your environmental footprint during your stay.