This dive site, Ilheu West, is located on the islet of Vila Franca do Campo in Portugal's Azores. It features a fascinating underwater slope that descends to 19 meters, with an average depth of around 9 meters. The site is characterized by four distinct gorges that divers can enter but not traverse, as they serve as protected areas for marine species. The unique topography and protected environment make it an intriguing location to explore the rich underwater world of the Azores.
Divers can expect to encounter a diverse array of marine life, including various species of eels, octopuses, and rays. The site is also home to schooling fish such as amberjacks and barracudas, alongside triggerfish, lobsters, pufferfish, and flounders. The presence of these protected gorges contributes to a healthy ecosystem, supporting a wide range of smaller reef creatures and some larger pelagic visitors.
The best time to visit Ilheu West generally aligns with the Azores' summer months, from June to September, when water temperatures are warmer and conditions are typically calmer. Its accessible depths and interesting features make it an excellent choice for both scuba divers of all levels and freedivers. Freedivers will appreciate the shallow average depth and the opportunity to explore the protected gorges from the surface or on breath-hold dives, observing the bustling marine life within.
