The Azores Islands, a paradise in the heart of the Atlantic, are a sanctuary of volcanic landscapes and extraordinary marine life. Home to ocean giants like sperm whales and dolphins, they offer an epic setting for adventure, diving, and the exploration of an unparalleled natural world.
the second-largest island in the Azores, stands as a majestic symbol of raw natural beauty and adventure. Dominated by the towering Pico Mountain, the highest peak in Portugal, this volcanic island offers breathtaking landscapes of black lava fields, lush vineyards recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the endless blue of the Atlantic. Known as a haven for whale watching and diving, Pico is a gateway to unforgettable encounters with marine giants and underwater marvels. It is a place where land and sea come together in a perfect harmony of epic proportions.
The Azores Islands, often referred to as "the European Baja California," are a sanctuary of wild nature and mystery, evoking the same deep connection between the ocean and life that defines their Mexican counterpart. This archipelago, sculpted by volcanic fire and embraced by the boundless Atlantic, shares a unique magnetism with Baja California: its crystal-clear waters set the stage for encounters with marine giants like whales and dolphins, while its volcanic shores invite exploration and wonder. Both regions are more than just destinations; they are poems written by the ocean, where time seems to pause, and the soul finds communion with nature in its purest form. In the Azores, as in Baja California, every wave, every silhouette of a cetacean on the horizon, and every dive into its depths is a celebration of wild life and the unwavering beauty of the sea. It is a place where the heart beats in harmony with nature, creating memories as vast and timeless as the ocean itself.
Diving at Princess Alice Bank is a journey into the Atlantic’s marine wilderness. This seamount, rising to just 35 meters below the surface, is a hotspot for extraordinary biodiversity and unforgettable underwater experiences. The first dive immerses you in open-ocean magic, where you’ll encounter schools of mobula rays (mobula tarapacana) gliding gracefully, along with yellowfin tuna, black jacks, and occasional sightings of blue or mako sharks. The nutrient-rich currents ensure a spectacle of marine life that makes every descent unique. The second dive focuses on the seamount’s pinnacle, a vibrant ecosystem home to amberjacks, barracudas, and colorful reef fish. This area also acts as a cleaning station for pelagic species, frequently visited by mobula rays and triggerfish. With strong currents and open-ocean conditions, these dives are perfect for experienced adventurers, offering breathtaking encounters with the Atlantic’s most iconic marine life.
Our Open Ocean seafari tour is an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Atlantic, where the ocean's giants come to life. Sperm whales, the titans of the deep, surface with grace, while humpback whales might breach in spectacular displays. Pods of pilot whales glide by, and playful dolphins—from common to bottlenose—race alongside the boat, riding the waves with infectious energy. If luck is on our side, we might glimpse the elusive beaked whales or even the majestic blue whale, the largest creature on Earth. With every spout, breach, and splash, you’ll feel the magic of the ocean and its magnificent cetaceans, making this a truly unforgettable experience.
The blue shark dives in the Azores are a thrilling adventure into the open ocean, offering unforgettable encounters with one of the Atlantic’s most iconic predators. In the deep, crystal-clear pelagic waters, with visibility often exceeding 40 meters, the stage is set for these sleek and elegant sharks to glide into view. Known for their curiosity, blue sharks often approach divers closely, their metallic blue bodies shimmering against the infinite backdrop of the deep. The experience is intimate and awe-inspiring, providing a rare chance to observe their beauty and behavior up close. Occasionally, mako sharks or schools of fish add to the spectacle, enhancing the excitement of the dive.
Beyond the exhilarating pelagic encounters, the reef diving in the Azores offers a completely different yet equally fascinating experience. The volcanic seafloor is home to vibrant marine ecosystems, with rocky reefs, caves, and walls teeming with life. Schools of barracuda, groupers, moray eels, and octopuses inhabit these waters, while colorful nudibranchs and crustaceans hide among the crevices. Divers may also encounter mobula rays gliding gracefully over the reefs, and even the occasional loggerhead turtle passing through. The contrast between the vast open ocean and the intricate reef environments makes diving in the Azores a truly diverse and unforgettable adventure.
An island tour of Faial, known as the "Blue Island" for its hydrangea-lined roads, showcases volcanic landscapes, lush greenery, and maritime history.
The journey begins at Caldeira do Faial, a massive 2-km-wide volcanic crater covered in dense vegetation, offering breathtaking views of Pico Island on clear days. From there, the tour continues to Capelinhos Volcano, a moon-like landscape created by the 1957-58 eruption, with its ash-covered terrain and fascinating interpretation center.
In Horta, Faial’s capital, visitors explore the legendary marina, famous for its sailors' murals, visit the Scrimshaw Museum, and stop by Peter Café Sport, an iconic meeting point for adventurers. Additional highlights include the Miradouro da Ribeira das Cabras, with stunning coastal views, and Praia do Almoxarife, a scenic black-sand beach.
Faial’s unique mix of natural beauty, volcanic history, and rich maritime culture makes it one of the most captivating destinations in the Azores. 🚢✨
Diving & Safari & Snorkeling
Scientific Worshops about the wildife that we'll see in the trip by Andrea Spinelli
diving & travel
Your adventure begins on Day 1, with your arrival at Horta Airport. You’ll be transferred to our house, where you’ll check into your comfortable double or twin room. After settling in, you’ll meet the team for a detailed briefing about the exciting activities planned for the week. The rest of the evening is yours to relax, explore the area, or simply prepare for the thrilling days ahead.
you’ll enjoy two local dives, exploring the volcanic underwater landscapes and diverse marine life close to the coast. These dives showcase the unique beauty of the Azorean waters, from colorful reef fish to dramatic rock formations. The rest of the day is yours to relax and recharge, whether by enjoying the tranquil atmosphere of the guesthouse or exploring the island further.
Day 3 takes you to Princess Alice Bank, one of the Azores’ most iconic dive sites. This full-day expedition includes two dives at this stunning underwater seamount, where you’ll encounter schools of mobula rays, vibrant marine life, and the breathtaking vastness of the open ocean. After an unforgettable day of diving, you’ll return to the guesthouse for the evening.
An island tour of Faial, known as the "Blue Island" for its hydrangea-lined roads, showcases volcanic landscapes, lush greenery, and maritime history.
The journey begins at Caldeira do Faial, a massive 2-km-wide volcanic crater covered in dense vegetation, offering breathtaking views of Pico Island on clear days. From there, the tour continues to Capelinhos Volcano, a moon-like landscape created by the 1957-58 eruption, with its ash-covered terrain and fascinating interpretation center.
this days are all about adrenaline and awe as you head out for the shark diving expedition. This full-day activity takes you into the pelagic waters of the Azores, where you’ll encounter blue sharks in their natural habitat. These graceful and curious predators will leave you with unforgettable memories. After an exhilarating day, you’ll return to the guesthouse to relax and reflect on the experience.
The Open Ocean Safari in the Azores is an exhilarating adventure into the deep blue, offering close encounters with whales, dolphins, mobula rays, and pelagic fish in their natural habitat. Venturing far from the coast, this experience provides a unique opportunity to observe marine life in the open sea, where the crystal-clear waters often exceed 40 meters of visibility.
Guided by experts, you'll witness the beauty of the Atlantic’s wildlife, from playful pods of dolphins to majestic whales on their migration routes. With occasional visits from blue sharks, makos, and even oceanic sunfish, every safari is a thrilling and unpredictable journey into the wild.
