About this spot
Tuna Point sits off the coast of Santiago in Cape Verde's Tarrafal municipality, offering accessible diving in Atlantic waters. The site benefits from year-round conditions, making it flexible for travel planning. With no marine protected area restrictions, the spot remains open to independent divers and guided groups exploring the region. Local dive records document 12 species observations at Tuna Point, indicating a working population of fish and reef inhabitants. The site shows no signs of coral bleaching stress, suggesting relatively stable reef health. Community divers have contributed 3 videos documenting conditions, providing current reference footage for planning dives. Tuna Point works as part of a broader Cape Verde dive circuit centered on Santiago. The location's proximity to Tarrafal—a coastal town with basic services—makes logistics straightforward. Expect Atlantic island dive conditions typical of West African waters: seasonal thermocline shifts and variable visibility depending on swell and weather patterns. Best suited for divers familiar with current and surge management common to exposed Atlantic sites. The year-round accessibility means you can dive here across winter and summer months, though seasonal wind patterns will influence conditions.
📖 Guide: 10 Best Diving Spots in Cape Verde
Best months
Marine life
Dive types
Trip essentials
Everything you need before you pack — checklist, sun, logistics.
Trip checklist
- 🛂 Visa-free or visa-on-arrival
- 📜 C-card + dive insurance (DAN)
- 📔 Dive logbook
- 🧴 Reef-safe sunscreen SPF 50+
- 🔌 Plug type C/F · 230V adapter
- 💊 Seasickness meds + ear drops
- 📱 Offline maps + emergency contact
Quick facts
- 🌓 Moon First quarter · 47%
- GPS
› Sustainability disclosures
FAQ
›When is the best time to dive Tuna Point?
Tuna Point is diveable year-round. Winter months (November–March) typically bring calmer Atlantic conditions, while summer months (June–September) often see stronger trade winds and rougher surface conditions. Check local weather forecasts before committing to trips.
›What depth and difficulty level should I expect?
Specific depth and difficulty data for Tuna Point are not documented in current records. Contact local dive operators in Tarrafal or nearby areas for current site parameters, current strength, and bottom composition details before your visit.
›What marine life might I encounter?
Tuna Point supports at least 12 documented fish and reef species. The site shows no coral bleaching stress, indicating a functioning reef ecosystem. Expect Atlantic island fauna typical of Cape Verde's waters, though exact species mix varies seasonally.
›Do I need permits or is the site protected?
Tuna Point is not within a marine protected area, so no special permits are required for diving. Standard Cape Verde diving rules and safety protocols apply. Always dive with appropriate training and buddy systems.
