Faial · artificial-reef barge wreck

Pontão 16 dive guide.

A 40 by 17 metre barge deliberately sunk in 2003 as an artificial reef, with no accessible interior entry.

Horta and Faial coastline, regional context rather than a photograph of the Pontão 16 wreck

Depth

21-26 m

Level

Advanced Open Water

Access

Boat dive about ten minutes from Horta; confirm mooring, current and the operator’s exterior route around the barge.

Best season

Faial’s regular operating season is mainly June to October; current, swell and visibility decide whether the wreck runs.

Safety

The barge has no recreational entry. Stay outside, use conservative gas for 21-26 m, avoid entanglement and follow controlled-ascent procedures.

Hours

No fixed public hours. Boat departures, protected-area access and shore entries depend on operators, permits and sea state.

Conditions

Faial marine forecast.

Wave

0.8 m8 s

Swell

0.6 m5 s

Wind

2 kn37 deg

Sea temp

21.9 Csurface

Additional information

Local pages and official references.

Local operators

Contact dive teams in Faial.

View operators

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