Azores Diving Holidays: An Overview

What species can I expect to see in the Azores?

The Azores are a magnet for marine life, thanks in part to their location on the migratory path of myriad aquatic species. Currents from the Gulf Stream also carry nutrient-rich water to the Azores, which is high in krill and plankton and attracts baitfish. In turn, these lure larger predators to the area.

Because of this, you can catch a glimpse of exciting, lesser-spotted (in Europe, anyway) sea creatures. Encounter larger pelagics from mid-June to mid-October, with July to September offering the best chances of sightings. Manta rays, mobulas and blue sharks are often spotted offshore, while whale sharks show their fins near Santa Maria. Spring and summer bring whales and dolphins, including resident sperm whales and migrating blue, fin and sei whales. Summer is also prime time for dolphin encounters, with large groups and playful calves saying hello.

What types of diving can I do in the Azores?

The diverse landscapes of the Azores mean that there's a wide variety of diving opportunities. These range from traditional wall and reef diving to more thrilling pursuits like cave diving, shark diving and even a whopping eight wreck dives to choose from.

The World War II shipwreck Dori is one of the archipelago's highlights. Aside from its historical significance, you'll also be treated to a glimpse into the adaptive nature of marine life. The structure has proven to be a haven for moray eels, octopuses and nudibranchs, who all call the giant sunken vessel home.

What to pack for diving in the Azores?

The waters in the Azores can be a little colder than what some divers might be used to in the tropics, so it's a good idea to come prepared with a slightly thicker wetsuit. We suggest a seven-millimetre semi-dry suit with gloves and a hood to be on the safe side for repetitive dives.

In terms of equipment, most diving operators will have all the necessary rental gear you'll need (although we recommend bringing your own wetsuit, gloves and hood for comfort). Make sure to ask ahead if you have specific requirements to ensure everything is available on-island. You can also bring along some additional items such as:

• Masks, snorkel and fins
• A dive torch to spot marine life in caves
• Reef-friendly sunscreen
• Thick and rubber-soled diving boots
• A buoyancy compensator device (BCD) and regulators

Is the diving in the Azores suitable for beginners?

Yes, there are plenty of dives in the Azores which cater to those with less experience, particularly around Sao Miguel and Terceira. Other islands, like Pico, Faial and Santa Maria, are more suited to those with advanced certifications. No matter where you dive, keep in mind that the currents of the Azores can sometimes become quite strong, so it's important you only tackle dives you feel totally comfortable with. Most of the time, dive operators will ask for your dive history before deciding if you're ready for a specific trip.

What level of dive qualification will I need in the Azores?

An Advanced Certification is highly recommended on most islands due to the depths and currents. Both a Nitrox Certification and an Advanced Certification are needed - with a minimum of 50 dives under your belt - if you intend to explore Formigas and Dollabarat, Princess Alice Bank and Ambrosio to see mobulas, mantas and sharks.

Diving is just part of the fun in the Azores. While we highly recommend spending as much time as you can in the water, it would be criminal not to get out and enjoy some of the other adventures the islands have to offer. Here are some must-dos:

• Gorreana. Established in 1883, this site is now Europe's oldest commercial tea plantation. Wander through emerald seas of tea plants, tour the historic factory and, naturally, finish your day with a nice hot brew.
• World-famous vineyards. 'The Landscape of the Pico Island Vineyard Culture' might not be a name that rolls off the tongue, but it'll certainly leave you speechless. This UNESCO World Heritage site is made up of a labyrinth of knee-high stones known as currais. Each shelter has two to three vines to protect from the wind and rain. Take a trip around the vineyard before sampling some of the wines yourselves.
• Geothermal lakes. If you've had your daily diving fix but aren't quite ready to pull yourself away from the water, a geothermal lake might be your best bet. The volcanic conditions on the shores of Lake Furnas mean that these heated natural pools are always just a short trip away. Head to Terra Nostra botanical gardens for some of the best spots.
• Capelinhos volcano. Looking like something out of a Tolkien novel, the black sands of Capelinhos volcano are perfect for a hike. Capture your inner Sam and Frodo as you stroll out over a land which looks more like Mordor than the Azores. Don't worry, though, it's perfectly safe - and very enjoyable.
• Canoeing - explore the island's rugged, volcanic coastline from the comfort of a canoe. Prepare for it to be wet, wild and unforgettable.
• Jeep tour - jump aboard a jeep and whizz past the brilliant blue Lagoa do Fogo, enjoy views over Sao Miguel from atop a volcano and take a dip in the warm, iron-rich waters of the Caldeira Velha waterfall.

What is the Azores famous for?

The Azores are probably best known for the amazing wildlife and nature found on their luscious green shores and in their beautiful azure seas. Dolphins, whales and sharks can all be spotted on any diving trip. However, this is just the beginning for nature enthusiasts. The nine islands which make up the Azores are home to a whole host of wildlife which can only be found here, including the Western Azores Goldcrest, Azores Bullfinch and the Azores Grayling.

Culture buffs are also in for a treat. First discovered in the 15th century by Portuguese explorers, the islands now have more than 600 years of history to brag about. Some of the highlights include two UNESCO World Heritage sites - the Historical Centre of Angra do Heroismo and the Landscape of Pico Island Vineyard Culture.

If you aren't too tuckered out from all the exploring you've already done, there's plenty more on offer. The Azores have an impressive network of hiking trails for people who like to stay active when they travel. Our best suggestion is to head to Faial Island, where you can see the famous Caldeira. This giant crater was carved out by a volcanic eruption believed to have happened roughly 1,000 years ago.

What food should I try in the Azores?

The culinary palate of the Azores has been shaped heavily by the rest of Portugal. However, that doesn't mean the food you'll find here is the same as on the mainland. The isolated nature of this archipelago means that seafood has taken a far more prominent role in local dishes. Here are just some of the best meals to try:

• Cozido das Furnas. Pork, beef, chicken and sausages are thrown into a stew with an array vegetables, before the concoction is cooked in underground holes known as fumaroles. These holes sit in hot volcanic soil, right next to Furnas Lake - hence the name.
• Chicharros Fritos. Translating to 'fried mackerel', this dish is just that. In the Azores, people eat mackerel whole - that means heads and all. Pair your mackerel with a spicy molho de vilao sauce (which has a sweet and peppery taste) for the most authentic experience.
• Bolo Levedo. These Portuguese-style English muffins also hail from Furnas. They're sweet, hearty and can be used as the base for practically any kind of sandwich you can imagine.
• Alcatra of Terceira Island. Beef rump is slow-cooked in a pot with red wine, onions, cloves, garlic and black peppercorns. You'll know it's done when the beef is tender enough to fall off the bone. Tasty.
• Queijadas da Dona Amelia. This delicious dessert is made from a semi-soft pastry with eggs, honey, cinnamon and cornflour. The finished product is sprinkled with confectioner's sugar, and raisins and molasses are sometimes added for an extra kick of flavour.

Do you need to tip in the Azores?

Unlike a lot of places, tipping isn't that common in the Azores. Of course, that doesn't mean you can't. Showing your gratitude with a small token of kindness is always going to be well-received.

What is the climate of the Azores like?

Because of where it's located, the Azores' climate is very consistent. You'll rarely find temperatures dropping below 14 °C or rising above 25 °C throughout the year. Temperatures of above 30 °C or below 7 °C are pretty unheard of, but it can sometimes feel hotter due to the humidity.

Where are the Azores?

This archipelago sits 870 miles west of Lisbon, about 930 miles north-west of Morocco, about 1,200 miles south-east of Newfoundland, Canada, and the same distance southwest of Cork, Ireland. Given these distances, the Azores are relatively cut off from most other countries.

Is Madeira part of the Azores?

No, Madeira is not part of the Azores. Both are Portuguese archipelagos that operate independently from the sovereign nation that runs them. While some may think they're neighbours, the Azores and Madeira are actually some 560 miles away from each other.

What plugs do they use in the Azores?

Type C and Type F plugs are most commonly used in the Azores. Both use two round pins, with the only difference being that Type F plugs also use two earth clips.

What it the capital city of the Azores?

Ponta Delgada on Sao Miguel Island is the official capital of the Azores. It has a healthy 67,287 inhabitants in total, which accounts for more than a quarter of the total population of the Azores. Ponta Delgada is best known for the beautiful shades of green and blue that spring up in nature.

What language do they speak in the Azores?

The official language of the Azores is Portuguese. However, many people can speak English, owing to the large number of visitors they receive annually.

What currency do they use in the Azores?

The Euro is the official currency of the Azores. You probably won't get lucky if you try to spend dollars, pounds or any other kind of currency here. But don't worry - there are plenty of places to swap out your money when you arrive.

Can you drink the tap water in the Azores?

You can drink the tap water in the Azores without worrying about getting ill. The archipelago's natural conditions, combined with the high-quality water purification systems used here, mean that you should always be fine drinking straight from the tap.

How long is the flight to the Azores?

The average flight time from the UK to the Azores is just over four hours, if flying direct. Flights that go straight to the archipelago don't run daily, though, so you may have to take a two or two-and-a-half-hour flight to Lisbon, then make the short 30-to-45-minute hop over.

Do I need a visa to visit the Azores?

As a part of Portugal, you'll be able to travel to the Azores for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa. This is thanks to the agreement with the UK and the Schengen area. If you're travelling to other Schengen area countries first, make sure to add these days to your 90-day count.

What are the other entry requirements for the Azores?

All passports should have a date of issue less than ten years before the date you arrive - if you renewed your passport before the 1st October 2018, it may have a date of issue that's more than ten years ago. The expiry date also needs to be at least three months after the day you plan to leave.

What vaccines are needed to enter the Azores?

There are no specific vaccine requirements for the Azores. To be as safe as possible, simply make sure you're up to date on all your current vaccines.