Restinga do Freire
Description
Coast
Porto de Santa Cruz
Depth
Restinga do Freire
The Restinga do Freire dive begins at the Santa Cruz da Graciosa quay, a sheltered spot that starts at a depth of seven metres and progresses along a fairly steep slope until it reaches a depth of 15 metres. The calm conditions mean it is perfect for beginner dives, night dives and snorkelling, and it offers a great alternative for days when the weather or conditions prevent other dives.
Despite its location in the harbour, it is possible to spot young fish of several species including colourful ornate wrasses (Thalassoma pavo), Mediterranean rainbow wrasses (Coris julis) and Moroccan white seabreams (Diplodus sargus) as you start your dive. Throughout the descent you will see several species of moray eels and common octopus (Octopus vulgaris), as well as large schools of salema porgies (Sarpa salpa). As you descend to 15 metres, you may also come across island groupers (Mycteroperca fusca) and large dusky groupers (Epinephelus marginatus).