Madeira water temperature
The sea off Madeira is warmest in September, around 75°F (24°C), and coolest in March, around 64°F (18°C).
Photo: Bengt Nyman, CC BY 2.0
Sea temperature by month
| Month | Sea | Feels | Air high |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 66°F (19°C) | Cool: wetsuit for long swims | 68°F |
| February | 65°F (18°C) | Cool: wetsuit for long swims | 68°F |
| March | 64°F (18°C) | Cold: wetsuit | 69°F |
| April | 65°F (18°C) | Cool: wetsuit for long swims | 70°F |
| May | 67°F (19°C) | Cool: wetsuit for long swims | 72°F |
| June | 70°F (21°C) | Cool: wetsuit for long swims | 75°F |
| July | 72°F (22°C) | Refreshing | 78°F |
| August | 74°F (23°C) | Pleasant | 80°F |
| September | 75°F (24°C) | Pleasant | 80°F |
| October | 73°F (23°C) | Refreshing | 77°F |
| November | 71°F (21°C) | Refreshing | 73°F |
| December | 68°F (20°C) | Cool: wetsuit for long swims | 70°F |
Average sea-surface temperature just offshore, 1991–2020. Water in shallow bays runs a little warmer on sunny afternoons.
On the water in Madeira
Questions
When is the water warmest in Madeira?
September, at about 75°F (24°C).
Can you swim in Madeira all year?
The water is comfortably warm (73°F/23°C or more) in August, September. Outside those months most people want a wetsuit for long swims.
Do I need a wetsuit to snorkel in Madeira?
In March, at 64°F, a 3 mm wetsuit makes a long snorkel much more comfortable. Many tours include or rent one.
