Dive Site: River Gurara P

About River Gurara P

The River Gurara P dive site represents the bow section of the cargo motor vessel MV River Gurara, which tragically sank on February 26, 1989. This incident occurred near Cape Espichel, Portugal, following a severe storm that caused the ship to break apart. Today, this section of the wreck lies offshore from Sesimbra, offering a significant historical wreck dive. The dive focuses on the bow of the ship, which rests at an average depth of 28 meters. The structure provides ample shelter, attracting a diverse range of marine life. Divers can explore the exterior and interior sections of the bow, observing how the wreck has transformed into an artificial reef. This wreck is a habitat for various fish and invertebrate species, including large conger eels, moray eels, pouts, and different types of seabreams and wrasses. Encounters with octopuses, squids, groupers, and lobsters are also common, particularly within the sheltered confines of the wreck's structure. August shows high sightings for octopus, while conger eels are frequently observed from May through November, with peak sightings in June and August. Due to its depth and the nature of wreck diving, this site is generally suited for experienced divers. Dives typically involve exploring the sunken vessel, observing the marine ecosystem that has developed around it. Access to the site is via boat, usually departing from nearby ports in the Lisbon area, such as Sesimbra.