Dive Site: Eglin Air force Barge

About Eglin Air force Barge

The Eglin Air Force Barge, located off the coast of Torres Vedras in Portugal, offers an accessible and rewarding dive experience for nearly all levels of certified divers. This site uniquely combines the appeal of a sunken vessel with the vibrant ecosystem of a natural reef. Sitting comfortably at a depth of 68 feet (approximately 21 meters), the barge has become an artificial reef, attracting a variety of marine species. Its structure provides numerous hiding spots and foraging grounds, creating a dynamic underwater habitat that divers can explore. While specific seasonality for marine life at this exact site is not detailed, the surrounding waters of Portugal are known to host species like groupers, barracudas, octopuses, and various nudibranchs. Larger pelagic species such as mola mola, sailfish, and even some shark and whale species are common in the general region, though specific sightings on the barge itself are anecdotal. Water temperatures in Portugal during summer typically range from 17°C to 24°C, with visibility between 10 to 30 meters. Diving the Eglin Air Force Barge involves exploring the wreck's structure and the surrounding seabed, observing the marine life that has colonized it. Given its moderate depth, it provides ample bottom time for exploration and photography, making it a popular choice for local dive operators.

Dive site facts: Eglin Air force Barge

Depth

21 m / 68 ft

Current

Mild to moderate

Visibility

10–30 m

Water temperature

17–24°C (summer)

Entry

Boat

Level

Open Water Diver

Dive type

Wreck, Reef

Region / port

Lisboa, Torres Vedras, Portugal

Coordinates

38.6750° N, 9.5080° W

Conditions & Currents

Currents around dive sites in Portugal are generally considered mild, especially in areas like Sesimbra, making them suitable for Open Water Divers. However, some sites, particularly in the Azores, can experience stronger currents, requiring divers to check local conditions. The visibility at the Eglin Air Force Barge can vary between 10 to 30 meters, depending on weather and local phenomena, which is typical for the region from June to September. Water entry for boat dives is often a giant stride or backroll, and efficient entry and exit techniques are encouraged, especially if live boating or drift diving conditions are present, though not explicitly stated for this site. Divers should be prepared for typical Atlantic water temperatures, which necessitate a 5mm wetsuit even in summer.

Marine life & sighting chances

Sharks

occasional

Whales

occasional

Dolphins

occasional

Turtles

occasional

Leatherback Turtles

occasional

Manatees

occasional

Mola Mola

occasional

Orca

occasional

Sailfish

occasional

Bobtail Squid

occasional

Groupers

common

Barracudas

common

Moray Eels

common

Octopuses

common

Dive profile & how the dive runs

Divers typically access the Eglin Air Force Barge by boat, making a controlled descent onto the wreck structure. The barge rests at a depth of 21 meters (68 feet), allowing for ample bottom time. Your dive will involve exploring the length of the barge, observing the diverse marine life that has colonized its surfaces and taken refuge within its structure. The route may involve circumnavigating the wreck or following specific features, guided by the dive brief. Given its relatively shallow depth, this site is ideal for recreational dives, with the safety stop conducted in the clear water above the wreck, allowing for observation of passing fish or the blue water below. Ascent will be made towards the surface, where the dive boat will be waiting for pickup.

Underwater photography

The Eglin Air Force Barge provides excellent opportunities for both wide-angle and macro photography due to its structure and varied marine life. For wide-angle shots, consider capturing the entire barge as an artificial reef, possibly including divers to convey scale. Good ambient light penetration at 21 meters allows for natural light photography, but strobes will enhance color and detail, especially for shots inside crevices or shaded areas. For macro subjects like nudibranchs, bobtail squid, or smaller fish hiding on the wreck, a macro lens is essential. Pay close attention to buoyancy control to avoid disturbing the sediment on the wreck or harming marine inhabitants. Be patient with your subjects, and allow them to become comfortable with your presence.

Combine with nearby dive sites

• Pedra do Spinola

  Pedra do Spinola is a charming, sheltered boat dive site located near Sesimbra, easily accessible and designed to accommodate various diver…

• CANYON do INFERNO

  Canyon do Inferno is an intriguing dive site situated along Portugal's rocky Atlantic coast, just outside Cascais.

• BOCA do INFERNO

  Boca do Inferno, situated off the rocky coast of Cascais, Portugal, is named for the dramatic sea-chasm formation visible from the surface.

Getting there & logistics

Access to the Eglin Air Force Barge typically begins with international flights into Lisbon Portela Airport (LIS), which is Portugal's largest and most connected airport. From Lisbon, divers travel to coastal towns like Torres Vedras. Dive trips to the barge are usually day excursions organized by local dive centers, often as part of a multi-dive package exploring various sites in the region. There are no specific permits or fees mentioned for diving the barge itself, but local operator costs will apply. The dive site is commonly combined with other local dives rather than being part of a long liveaboard itinerary, given its proximity to the coast and moderate depth.

Safety & environment

For diving in Portugal, it is always recommended to have comprehensive dive insurance covering potential incidents and emergency medical care. The nearest recompression chamber would be located in a major medical center, likely in Lisbon, but specific facilities should be confirmed with your dive operator. Emergency evacuation procedures would involve transfer to a medical facility on the mainland. Site-specific hazards at the Eglin Air Force Barge include potential entanglement on wreck components and strong currents, although currents are generally mild. Divers should adhere to their training limits, maintain good buoyancy control to avoid contact with the wreck, and always dive with a buddy and follow the dive guide's instructions. Standard safe diving practices, including proper gas planning and ascent rates, are paramount.

Who it suits — and who it doesn't

FAQ

Eglin Air force Barge FAQ

Liveaboards diving Eglin Air force Barge

These liveaboards may visit Eglin Air force Barge on selected itineraries — the exact dive sites depend on departure, weather and conditions.

Water And Wind

Portugal

8 guests13.41 m

$434/day