An archipelago of huge volcanic peaks breaking the surface in
the mid-Atlantic, the Azores is a spectacular region to visit whether it’s for
diving, hiking or whale watching. The Gulf Stream ensures a mild and humid
climate year-round. The lush green islands are untouched by mass tourism and
the surrounding waters hold a rich marine biodiversity, most notably a wide
variety of whale and dolphin species. Visibility is 30 metres on average and
the most comfortable diving season is May-Oct. Travel time to these magical
islands is under four hours from the UK and it’s the perfect place to go
island-hopping and whale watching or even to try something new and adventurous.
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Photo Credit: Visit Azores.com |
Underwater highlights include exploring volcanic topography, diving in the blue for the chance of a shark or mobula ray encounter. The variety of shallow rocky reefs, arches, underwater caves, wrecks and deeper oceanic dive offer an abundance of rich marine life in these subtropical waters fed by the Gulf Stream. Expect to see anything from nudibranch to whales – with plenty of schools of pelagic fish, dolphin, turtles and lobster. This is a fantastic destination for photographers looking to capture some unique and memorable shots.
New for 2013 – Santa Maria Island
The most south-eastern of the archipelago, the ‘Yellow Island’ is warmer,
flatter and drier than the others, especially in the west. In contrast, the
east features more luxuriant vegetation comprising the Pico Alto. Experienced
divers will enjoy the diversity of pelagic species at Formigas and Dollabrat
Bank.
The local dive sites around the island are varied and suitable
for all. Underwater highlights include exploration of caves, tunnels and sea
mounts, however it’s the nature reserve Formigas and the Dollabarat Bank that
divers hope to get to experience. Here, the marine life is abundant and you can
expect the highest number of pelagic sightings including several species of
shark, barracuda, tuna manta and devil rays.
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Photo Credit: Pedro de Carvalho |
To the northwest, the site of Baixa do Ambrósio is famous for
its mobula ray aggregations during the summer months – suitable for divers and
snorkellers, a magnificent sight with visibility around 40 metres.
Prices from £1,225 per person
Includes flights from the UK, 6-nights (BB) on Santa Maria, 10
local dives and 2 at Formigas (subject to minimum numbers and weather
conditions) and your final night in Ponta Delgada. Based on two people
travelling together.
Create your own
adventure
CALL the experts on
0845 130 6980
Visit Azores
We feature the islands of Sao Miguel, Faial, Pico and Santa Maria, perfect for island hopping!
Anything is possible on a diving aventure to the
Azores. We can help create your personal itinerary to include diving and other
activities on one or a number of the islands, all of which have their own
character and highlights.