Mergulho Carioca

Located in Rio de Janeiro, Mergulho Carioca has been a fixture of the local diving community since 2009. The centre is uniquely positioned as an authorised operator by ICMBio, allowing them to conduct dives and provide water transport within the Monumento Natural das Ilhas Cagarras.

Whether you are starting your journey with a Discovery Scuba Diving session or progressing through professional levels, the centre focuses on providing the technical tools required for constant progression. Their expertise is rooted in the local waters, with a particular emphasis on the protected marine environments surrounding the city.

The centre was founded by Wagner de Alencastre Rodrigues, a PADI instructor since 2011 with extensive experience in technical diving, including cave and TX diving. This leadership brings a high level of technical oversight to the training programmes offered on site.

As a PADI affiliated centre, Mergulho Carioca provides a structured pathway for all levels of divers. Their approach is designed to support the evolution of students, ensuring they have the necessary skills to move from basic open water qualifications into more advanced specialties and professional roles.

The course catalogue is comprehensive, covering the entire PADI spectrum. Beginners can start with Discovery Scuba Diver or Open Water Diver, while those looking to advance can pursue Advanced Open Water Diver, Rescue Diver, and Divemaster certifications.

For divers seeking more specialised skills, the centre offers several PADI specialties, including Nitrox, Wreck, Deep, and Underwater Navigation. They also provide training in Search and Recovery and Fish Identification, catering to both recreational enthusiasts and those on a professional path.

The centre operates its own vessels to reach the various dive sites, including a Traineira and a Bote. These boats are used for scheduled departures on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays.

Depending on the conditions and the specific destination, the fleet allows for efficient transport to the archipelago. The centre manages all logistics from the Marina da Glória or the Marina do Ciro in Barra da Tijuca.

For those who prefer not to carry their own heavy kit, the centre offers SCUBA equipment hire, including BCDs, wetsuits, regulators, and air cylinders. They also provide services for equipment maintenance, cylinder recharging, and retesting to ensure your gear is in top condition.

Nitrox is available for divers looking to extend their bottom times. The facility is set up to support both training requirements and recreational diving needs for the local community.

The marine life in this region is defined by the seasonal presence of Humpback whales, which can be seen from July to September.

In the protected waters of the Cagarras islands, you will encounter a variety of species that thrive in the local ecosystem. The biodiversity of the sanctuary makes it a significant location for observing regional marine life.

Dive departures are organised on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays. The specific meeting point is chosen based on weather and sea conditions, alternating between Marina da Glória and Marina do Ciro in Barra da Tijuca to ensure safe and efficient access to the dive sites.