There are two main ways of diving: Free-diving, using only a mask and a breathing set, and Autonomous, where the main difference is in the possibility of staying under water for long periods using a pressure diving cylinder to breathe.

The mild weather, the sea water temperature between 17 and 24ºC, the clear waters and the passivity of the fishes, accustomed to the divers, make of Madeira a place more and more in the route of the diving practice.

One of the reference points to dive is the "Reserva do Garajau", a rich biologic spot offering unique conditions as a protected space with great scientific, recreation and tourist interest. As an example, there is the great number of visitors, specially diving amateurs, which come to this place all over the year.

Among the resident sea fauna, we have large fishes, for example the Dusky Grouper (Epinephelus marginatus) which are a visit card of this Reserve, besides a great diversity of other coastal species such as the White Sea Bream (Diplodus sargus) and the Mediterranean Moray (Muraena Helena), not forgetting the interesting Garden Eels colonies (Taenioconger longissimus), which hide themselves in the deep see sands.

In Summer, groups of Urjamantas (Mobula mobular) have been observed. Its aspect and graciosity of movements make of this place and international attraction. Also in Summer, we can see flocks of Rudderfish (Seriola zonata) and with some luck Turltles (Caretta caretta) passing by.

There are several diving schools and leisure firms which have diving courses for every level and organize diving excursions for more experienced divers.

Some of the most visited places are:
Pão de Açúcar (Garajau)
An emerging rock from the ocean which shows a great variety of fauna and flora.
Baía do Garajau
Dusky Grouper (the biggest on the island), flocks of tuna fish, Bicudas, Charcuteiros and Mantas. Garajau Este
Great variety of fish, among which a big Dusky Grouper shines and we can also see the amusing Trompeta fish . Colonies of colourful sponges.
Reis Magos
Wonderful place for night diving, this reef has at its end a large variety of sea night life.
Clube Naval do Funchal
Smooth down to 12m and then vertically until 24m down.
Morays,  parrotfish and Barracudas.
O Madeirense (Porto Santo)
Old skeleton of a ship, specifically sunk for the amusement of divers. It is a reef full of life!
Bom Rei (Madalena do Mar)
This vessel skeleton, resulting from a wreck,
has became a very rich reef, arising from its 35 m almost until the water level.
Morays and many other species.