Pontoon J

Category: Civil Architecture > Quay

District: Açores > Horta > Horta > Marina da Horta

Location

Pontão J is an underwater point of interest, located about a ten-minute boat ride from the port of Horta. It rests on a sandy bottom in a relatively sheltered area, providing a specific marine environment for those exploring it underwater.

Its Submerged History

In fact, Pontão J is a barge, a floating structure that was intentionally sunk in 2003. Its purpose was to create an artificial reef and a diving spot for visitors to explore marine life. It measures approximately 40 meters in length by 17 meters in width, and since its submersion, it has been transforming into an underwater ecosystem.

Aquatic Biodiversity

Since becoming part of the seabed, Pontão J has been colonized by a wide range of aquatic life. Its metal structures are now covered by various sponges and algae, which form a colorful substrate. It is common to observe an abundant presence of sargos, which at times seem to cover a large part of the barge. Other species such as groupers also inhabit the structure.

On the sandy bottom surrounding Pontão J, triggerfish, lizardfish, and soles are frequently spotted, camouflaging themselves in the sand. In the water column, during descent and ascent phases, large schools of triggerfish can be observed, moving calmly.

The Diving Experience

This underwater location has a depth ranging between 21 and 26 meters. Although its configuration allows for diving without the need to penetrate the barge's structures and the depth is relatively constant, its depth makes it more suitable for divers with more experience. The beauty of this point of interest lies in its stability and the richness of marine life that has developed over the years on the submerged structure.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt