Brenha (Wreck)

Located northwest of the Guilhada rock in Mindelo, Portugal, the wreck of a trawling vessel offers divers a captivating underwater experience. Resting on a sandy bottom and leaning against a stone, this wreck sits at a maximum depth of 27 meters. Accessible only by boat, it presents an opportunity to explore a variety of marine life.

Divers can encounter an array of fascinating creatures including pout, wrasse, octopus, congrer eels, and various species of crustaceans, such as lobsters. The wreck itself, known as Brenha, was constructed in 1969 and measured 32 meters in length. Originally dedicated to trawling, Brenha met its demise on January 3, 1996.

On that fateful night, with a crew of 15 men including the esteemed master, João Rebelo da Silva, Brenha departed from Leixões around 11 pm. Battling treacherous weather conditions, the vessel encountered strong winds and waves. While navigating near Guilhada, an unfortunate collision with low waters resulted in a hole in the hull, sealing the fate of the trawler.

In a race against time, distress flares were launched and an SOS signal was transmitted via radio around 11:30 pm. Thankfully, the crew was rescued by the engine "O Desterrado" as the ill-fated trawler succumbed to the depths of the sea half a mile northwest of Guilhada, sinking at approximately 12:30 am on January 4, 1996.

Today, the wreck of Brenha remains as a captivating diving site, albeit broken in half. Divers can witness the majesty of the exposed propeller, while scattered pieces of metal from the trawler can be easily discovered in the sand. Planning and navigation for dives at this site are relatively straightforward.

For those planning to explore this wreck, it is advisable to possess certifications in Wreck Diving, Deep Diving, and Enriched Air Nitrox. With a frequent surface current and virtually non-existent bottom current, divers can expect an average visibility of 6 meters. The average water temperature hovers around 13ºC, necessitating the use of a 7mm isothermal suit.

The best time to embark on this diving adventure is between June and September, ensuring optimal conditions and maximizing the potential for an unforgettable exploration of the Brenha wreck. With its rich history and diverse marine life, this underwater site promises an enthralling experience for advanced divers in Lavra, Matosinhos, Porto, Portugal.