Azores, Portugal, is often claimed to be the best scuba diving destination in Europe. From Pico island, you can access Princess Alice, a world-famous dive site full of exciting species. You can also dive with the fastest sharks on earth, the blue sharks.
Where is the best diving in the Azores?
The Azores Best Dive Sites
- Baía de Entre Montes – Faial.
- Shrimp Cave – Pico.
- Princess Alice Bank – Pico.
- Ponta da Cozinha – Sao Miguel.
- SS Dori Wreck – Sao Miguel.
- Ambrosio – Santa Maria.
- Formigas and Dollabarat – Sao Miguel.
- Baixa da Maia – Santa Maria.
Are there a lot of sharks in the Azores?
As well as the cetacean and majestic mobulas, the Azores are also a hotspot for sharks. Between July and October, mako and blue sharks can be seen with surprising regularity at remote seamounts around the island of Pico. During these months, visibility peaks, with many days reaching 30 metres or more.
Are there whale sharks in Azores?
Although it is possible to spot whale sharks on several islands of the Azores, Santa Maria is the island most visited by this colossus of the sea. It is possible to spot them during a coastal dive, but you are more likely to swim with one further off the coast.
Is scuba diving good in the Azores? – Related Questions
Is the sea warm in the Azores?
Water temperatures are about 22ºC (72ºF) in July and 23ºC (73ºF) in August and September. It is the perfect temperature to swim in the Atlantic heated by the Gulf Stream.
When should I dive in the Azores?
Best Time to Dive
The Azores dive season is in the summer, from June to around October. It is when they have warmer temperatures and calmer seas.
How many days is enough for Azores?
Seven or eight days is an ideal amount of time to spend in the Azores. Travelers with only a week to explore the Portuguese archipelago can focus their time on the island of São Miguel, adding on a trip to Terceira for whale watching if they have an extra day or two.
Can I drive in Azores with US license?
You May Need an International Driver’s Permit
If you come to the Azores from the United States or Canada, the official law is that you are allowed to drive here for up to six months.
Do you need a wetsuit in the Azores?
The Azorean Surf Spots
The water temperatures range from 62 to 72°F (17 to 22°C), so you’ll need a 3/2mm wetsuit to make sure you’re comfortable in this Atlantic surfing heaven.
Are there whale sharks in Portugal?
Whale shark sightings in the Azores are becoming increasingly frequent. In addition to Santa Maria, the largest migratory fish in the ocean has been sighted south of the islands of Pico and Faial. Researchers say this change is related to the abundance of bait and the temperature of the sea water.
What is the best time to see whales in the Azores?
The main ‘season’ runs from April all the way through the summer to October and during these months different species pass by the Azores on their migratory paths – April and May are usually a good time to go for a chance to see the larger whales such as blue, fin and sei whales, whilst October can be a good time to
Can you swim with whales Azores?
CW Azores is based on Pico Island, the place to be for all those seeking close encounters with whales, swimming with wild dolphins, great adventures, scuba diving with large pelagics, fun snorkelling and an incredibly abundant marine life.
Can you see orcas in the Azores?
We can see at least 28 different species of whales and dolphins in the Azores. Occasionally, we have more rare encounters with other species as: Beaked whales. Orcas (also known as killer whales)
Can I drive in Azores with US license?
You May Need an International Driver’s Permit
If you come to the Azores from the United States or Canada, the official law is that you are allowed to drive here for up to six months.
How many days do you need in Azores?
Seven or eight days is an ideal amount of time to spend in the Azores. Travelers with only a week to explore the Portuguese archipelago can focus their time on the island of São Miguel, adding on a trip to Terceira for whale watching if they have an extra day or two.
Do the Azores have poisonous snakes?
As for land animals we do not have any snakes or dangerous animals, but we do have hedgehogs, rats, ferrets, and wild rabbits. The bat of the Azores is the only native mammal that you can find in land.
Can you speak English in Azores?
The official language in Azores is Portuguese. Otherwise, most people involved with tourism speak at least enough English to communicate with English-speaking tourists.
Are there mosquitoes in Azores?
Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Azores. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.
Are the Azores worth it?
The Azores has everything you could need from a destination, from affordable prices to spectacular scenery, delicious food options to deserted beaches, from dozens of hikes to even more viewpoints.