Dive Site: U1277

About U1277

The U1277 is a German submarine wreck located near Porto, Portugal, deliberately sunk by its captain on June 4, 1945, at the end of World War II to prevent its capture. It lies on a sandy seabed at a depth of 31 meters, making it one of Portugal's nationally recognized diving icons and the most interesting wreck dive in the northern region of the country. The submarine rests tilted approximately 45 degrees to its portside, with the stern completely silted into the sand. Facing south, the prow has deteriorated, and the exterior fuselage of the conning tower, which once housed anti-aircraft armament, is now absent. Only the internal hull, constructed from 22mm welded metal plates, the targeting periscope, and a coverless hatch remain visible in the conning tower. The two torpedo launch tubes on the port side have fallen onto the sand, while those on the starboard side remain in place. The U1277's hull is adorned with thousands of small white anemones, *Sargartia elegans*, and a remarkable colony of pink anemones, believed to be descendents from the North Sea. This artificial reef attracts abundant marine life, including numerous pouting fish, some of the largest conger eels found in these waters, and large, curious octopuses. Despite its deteriorating condition, the U1277 offers a distinctive wreck diving experience in the cold, dark waters typical of northern continental Portugal. It provides an opportunity to combine historical exploration with encounters with robust Atlantic species in a unique underwater environment.

Dive site facts: U1277

Depth

30-31 m

Typical dive

40-60 min

Current

Mild to variable

Visibility

0-10 m (avg. 3 m)

Water temperature

12-15°C

Entry

Boat from Marina de Leça

Level

Advanced Open Water

Dive type

Wreck, historical, reef

Night dive

Possible (occasionally offered)

Region / port

Porto, Northern Portugal

Coordinates

41.6050° N, 8.8250° W

Conditions & Currents

Currents around the U-1277 are generally mild, but can vary, especially with local conditions. While the sources do not specify the exact entry and exit techniques, boat diving is the standard approach from nearby marinas. Visibility can be quite limited, often ranging from 0 to 10 meters, with a typical average of 3 meters. Divers frequently report a sandy layer between 12 and 15 meters, which can significantly reduce visibility in that band, sometimes resembling a night dive experience. Water temperatures are consistently cool throughout the year, ranging from 12°C to 15°C, necessitating appropriate thermal protection. This variability in visibility and cool temperatures means divers should be comfortable in challenging conditions and plan their gas accordingly.

Marine life & sighting chances

Pout

common

Conger eel

common

Octopus

common

Lobster

common

Small white anemone

common

Pink anemone

common

Shrimp

common

Roosterfish

occasional

Sunfish

occasional

Dive profile & how the dive runs

Dives to the U-1277 typically begin with a boat descent to the wreck, which rests upright on a sandy bottom at 30-31 meters. Divers commonly explore the exterior of the submarine, noting features like the pressure hull, conning tower, and periscope. The hull provides numerous crevices and shelters for marine life. Due to sand accumulation inside and the presence of ghost nets, penetration is not recommended. The dive progresses around the wreck, allowing time to observe the abundant marine life, including large conger eels, octopuses, and thousands of pouts. Ascent usually follows the boat line, with the safety stop conducted in the blue or on an attached buoy line.

Underwater photography

Capturing the U-1277 requires careful consideration of its depth and often limited visibility. A wide-angle lens is essential for documenting the impressive scale of the submarine, especially its prominent conning tower and hull. Given the low ambient light at 30 meters, external strobes or powerful video lights are crucial for illuminating the wreck and its vibrant marine inhabitants. Focus on the intricate details of the sub, such as the pressure hull's welded plates and the combat periscope, or the dense populations of anemones and fish that blanket its surfaces. Patience and excellent buoyancy control are key to avoid stirring up the sandy bottom, which can quickly degrade visibility further.

Combine with nearby dive sites

• Ocean Revival Park (Algarve)

  The Ocean Revival Park, located off the coast of Lagos in Portugal's Algarve region, is a premier destination for wreck diving enthusiasts.

• Berlengas Nature Reserve

  The Berlengas Nature Reserve is an exceptional diving destination located approximately 10 to 15 kilometers west of Peniche, Portugal.

• Sesimbra Wreck Garden

  Sesimbra Wreck Garden, situated near Lisbon, Portugal, offers an exceptional diving experience within the protected waters of the Luiz…

Getting there & logistics

Access to the U-1277 typically begins at Marina de Leça, near Porto, which is well-served by Porto Airport (OPO). Dive operators in the area arrange speedboat transfers, usually involving a 15-minute ride to the site. A typical excursion is a double dive, lasting approximately 3.5 hours, including briefings and transit. The U-1277 is frequently combined with a second dive at a nearby reef or another wreck, depending on conditions and diver preferences. No specific park fees or permits were mentioned, but standard dive operation costs include equipment and guide services. Divers should carry their certification cards and be aware that a recent dive within the last year is often required, or a skills update will be mandatory.

Safety & environment

Diving the U-1277 requires adherence to advanced diving protocols due to its depth and the potential for challenging conditions. The nearest recompression chamber would likely be in a major medical facility in Porto or Lisbon, requiring emergency medical evacuation if needed. Comprehensive dive insurance covering dive emergencies and evacuations is highly recommended. Specific hazards include ghost nets, which pose entanglement risks, and the often limited visibility that can disorient divers. The wreck's interior is compromised by sand and not suitable for penetration. Divers must maintain excellent buoyancy to avoid stirring up the silty bottom. It is crucial to dive with experienced local guides and within a small group, typically limited to eight participants, to ensure maximum safety and attention.

Who it suits — and who it doesn't

FAQ

U1277 FAQ

Liveaboards diving U1277

These liveaboards may visit U1277 on selected itineraries — the exact dive sites depend on departure, weather and conditions.

Water And Wind

Portugal

8 guests13.41 m