Recife & Porto de Galinhas – Brazil's Shipwreck Capital

About Recife & Porto de Galinhas

Recife and Porto de Galinhas form the wreck diving capital of Brazil, with over a dozen accessible shipwrecks scattered along the Pernambuco coast. Known as the 'Shipwreck Capital of Brazil', Recife offers historical wrecks dating back to the 1890s alongside purposely scuttled artificial reefs creating diverse underwater environments at depths of 12 to 30 metres. The warm tropical waters of 25-28 degrees Celsius support rich marine communities with schools of grunts, moray eels, frogfish, and lionfish colonising the wreck structures. Porto de Galinhas adds pristine natural coral pools perfect for beginners and snorkellers, while the nearby APA Costa dos Corais marine protected area preserves healthy reef systems. The combination of historical wreck exploration, vibrant coral reefs, and Brazil's rich northeast coast culture makes this region one of the most diverse diving destinations on the Brazilian mainland, attracting both experienced wreck divers and families seeking introductory underwater experiences.

Highlights

• ✓Over a dozen accessible shipwrecks along the coast
• ✓Historical wrecks from the 1890s to modern era
• ✓Natural coral pools at Porto de Galinhas
• ✓APA Costa dos Corais marine protected area
• ✓Warm water temperatures of 25-28°C year-round
• ✓Excellent macro and wreck photography opportunities

Getting There

Fly to Recife/Guararapes International Airport (REC), one of Brazil's busiest airports with direct flights from São Paulo, Rio, and Brasília. Porto de Galinhas is 60 kilometres south via highway, accessible by bus or taxi in about one hour.