Princess Alice bank

Sobre este Ponto de Mergulho

The Princess Alice bank is located near the city of Horta, in the Azores, Portugal. Access to this exceptional dive site is exclusively by boat, as it lies a considerable distance from the coast. Excursions are typically organized from nearby ports like Horta, and the journey to the site can take approximately one hour or more, depending on sea conditions and the vessel's exact positioning.

This dive is characterized as an underwater pinnacle that rises dramatically from the depths of the Atlantic Ocean. The underwater topography is striking, featuring vertical walls that drop into unknown abysses and areas with sheer rock formations. The pinnacle itself presents a complex structure with ledges, small caves, and areas of current that attract a wide array of marine life.

The Princess Alice bank is renowned for its abundant and diverse marine life. It is a gathering point for large pelagic species, including various types of sharks such as blue sharks and oceanic whitetip sharks, as well as manta rays and other rays. Large schools of fish, like barracudas and bonitos, can also be observed, along with sea turtles and the occasional passing cetacean.

Conditions at Princess Alice bank can be variable. While visibility can be excellent, often exceeding 30 meters on favorable days, it can also decrease rapidly due to the presence of ocean currents. The depth is significant, with the pinnacle emerging from considerable depths, offering a dive that can become relatively deep. Water temperatures may also be cooler due to upwelling of deep ocean water.

This dive site is considered ideal for experienced divers, certified in advanced or deep diving. The presence of currents, the depths involved, and potential interactions with large animals require a high level of competence and preparation. It is not recommended for novice divers or those uncomfortable in strong currents or at considerable depths.

It is essential to plan this dive with experienced local operators who are well-versed in the area and conditions. Appropriate gear for open water and potential currents is advised, along with good physical and mental preparedness. Dive duration will be dictated by air consumption and overall conditions, and safety protocols must always be strictly adhered to.