Ct Mergulho

Barracuda Cabo Frio is a PADI-affiliated dive centre located at the Costa Azul Iate Clube in Cabo Frio, approximately 155 km from Rio de Janeiro. Since establishing its roots in 2005, the centre has built a reputation for providing highly personalised attention to its divers through small group sizes.

The centre operates in a prime coastal location, providing access to several distinct island ecosystems. Whether you are looking to complete your initial certifications or advance through technical specialties, the setup is designed to accommodate a wide range of experience levels with a focus on individual progression.

The team is led by experienced instructors with dual PADI and CMAS qualifications. Marcio Bastos is a PADI Master Scuba Diver Trainer (MSDT) and EFR instructor, holding specialist ratings in Deep, Enriched Air, Emergency Oxygen Provider, Night Diver, Search & Recovery, Wreck, Underwater Navigator, Peak Performance Buoyancy, and Sidemount.

Working alongside him is Edson Beluga, a PADI Divemaster and CMAS instructor, who is qualified in Enriched Air and Emergency Oxygen Provider training. This combination of expertise ensures that both recreational and more specialised training needs are met with professional oversight.

While the centre's primary operations are conducted through partner vessels, all sea excursions are carried out under the direct supervision of the Barracuda Cabo Frio team, ensuring consistent safety standards and instructional quality.

The centre offers a comprehensive curriculum of PADI courses, ranging from the initial Discover Scuba Diving and Open Water Diver programmes to advanced levels such as Advanced Open Water Diver and Divemaster.

For those looking to refine their skills, a wide array of specialties is available, including Peak Performance Buoyancy, Deep Diver, Wreck Diver, Night Diver, and Underwater Navigator. The centre also provides training in Sidemount and environmental courses such as Project Aware and Aware Coral Reef Conservation.

Safety and rescue training are also central to the curriculum, with Emergency First Response (EFR), Rescue Diver, and Emergency Oxygen Provider courses available for divers at various stages of their training.

The shore-based facilities at the Costa Azul Iate Clube include a dedicated classroom for theory work and a specialised equipment room. All kit is maintained by technicians to ensure it meets safety and performance standards.

For divers looking to extend their bottom time or manage nitrogen loading, Nitrox is available on-site. The centre also provides a swimming pool for training and a nautical area to facilitate easy access to the water.