Located just 4 hours by plane from France, the nine islands that make up the Azores archipelago (Santa Maria, São Miguel, Terceira, São Jorge, Graciosa, Pico, Faial, Corvo, and Flores) will bring you a total change of scenery. Volcanic and lush, lost in the middle of the North Atlantic, they form an authentic sanctuary for numerous marine species and are therefore a true paradise for divers and free divers.
Underwater, a rich and abundant marine lifeFive species of sea turtles, over 24 species of cetaceans (including sperm whales and blue whales), and nearly 600 species of fish are present. In summer, it is even possible to observe blue sharks at the Condor site and sometimes also mako sharks, close relatives of the great white shark! Swim with dolphins, watch whales, find yourself surrounded by mobula rays at Baixa do Ambrosio in Santa Maria, dive on remains of galleons from the 15th and 16th centuries or in an underwater archaeological park, numerous underwater experiences await you.
In total, about twenty diving clubs are spread across all 9 islands, and the choice depends on the type of dives you wish to do. To encounter blue sharks, departures are only from the islands of Faial or Pico. Do you prefer wrecks and underwater archaeology? It is preferable that you stay on Terceira or Sao Miguel.The magic of volcanism underwater and on landThe Azores islands are characterized by calderas and volcanic craters emerging from the Atlantic Ocean. Dives on seamounts (land elevations rising from great depths to a few meters from the surface) are quite possible: they are named Princesa Alice, Dollabarat or even Dom João de Castro, and they teem with pelagic fish (bonitos, amberjacks, barracudas…).
Numerous activities on land between dives are also available: are you more active or more relaxed? In the first case, practice hiking, climbing, or canyoning; in the second, enjoy hot springs and volcanic vapors known for their benefits.
In practice
Best period to go : from mid-May to mid-OctoberWater temperature : from 16°C in winter to 23°C in summer. 5 mm to semi-dry suit.Minimum required level : from beginner to advanced.Time difference : -2h in winter and -3h in summer.Formalities : carry a valid ID card or passport, no visa or mandatory vaccine required. Many flights connect Santa Maria and Faial, most often via Lisbon and Porto.
For more information: http://plongee.visitazores.com/fr