Cathedral Cave

Scenic cavern dive with diverse macro life near Sagres, Portugal.

Boat Access
8m Avg Depth
17m Max Depth

About this dive site

This dive site, Cathedral Cave, is a unique underwater experience located just five minutes by boat from the harbour of Sagres, Portugal, with a convenient mooring available for anchoring. The dive typically begins at a depth of around 15 meters, gradually becoming shallower as divers explore the interior of the cave. The cavern boasts a distinctive circular layout and features two fascinating air chambers inside, with the largest one resembling a grand cathedral dome, offering a truly memorable visual spectacle.

The Cathedral Cave is teeming with a diverse array of marine life. Divers can expect to encounter various macro subjects such as colourful nudibranchs, elusive conger and moray eels hiding within crevices, robust lobsters, and intriguing spider crabs. The cave walls at the entrance are adorned with vibrant corals, while cylinder tube anemones add to the invertebrate diversity. Many species of fish also call this unique environment home, providing excellent opportunities for underwater photography and observation.

The best time to visit Cathedral Cave for diving is generally from late spring through autumn, when water temperatures are more comfortable and surface conditions are typically calmer, ensuring better visibility. While the site's shallow depths make it seem accessible, its nature as an overhead environment requires intermediate diving skills and comfort with cavern navigation. Freedivers with appropriate training can also enjoy the unique topography and air chambers, making it a versatile destination for different underwater enthusiasts.

DivingFreediving

Site Ratings

Big Marine Life Fair
Macro Marine Life Excellent
Landscape Quality Excellent
Water Visibility Very Good Viz

Plan Your Visit

cavernmacro photographyrock formationseelsoverhead environment

Things to Note

Difficulty:

Intermediate

Cavern diving requires navigation and overhead environment awareness, despite shallow depths.

Hazards:
cave
Current Strength:

Mild

Plan Your Dive

Ready to explore Cathedral Cave? Find dive operators and book your adventure.

This dive site information and pictures are sponsored by Pura Vida Dive House

Nearby Dive Sites

Explore other dive sites in the area