Dive Azores
Cais de Santa Cruz, Horta, Azores, PRT
About the Center
Dive Azores, based in Horta, Portugal, is a dive center and whale watching operator functioning since 2002. Run by marine biologists, it offers a professional and personal service, focusing on the Azores' marine life and conservation. Their facilities include lockers, a bar, and accommodation, alongside equipment rental and nitrox fills.
The center is PADI and SSI certified, providing a comprehensive range of diving courses, including Advanced Open Water and specialties such as night diving. For those seeking deeper experiences, Dive Azores also offers freediving courses. Their dedication to education is complemented by their deep connection to marine research, offering internships and courses related to marine conservation.
Dive Azores distinguishes itself with expertise in diving iconic sites like the Princess Alice Bank and offering thrilling blue shark dives in the open ocean. The operator prioritizes safe and respectful dives, guiding guests through the rich wildlife of the Azores. Their commitment to educating and inspiring about marine ecosystems and their inhabitants is central to their operational philosophy.
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A minimum of 30 logged dives and an Advanced Open Water certification (or equivalent) are required. A checkout dive at a local site to verify skills and equipment is mandatory before the trip departs. Inexperienced divers can join as snorkelers.
Over 90% during the July–September season. Dive Azores uses controlled chumming and runs the expeditions roughly one hour offshore. On good days sharks appear within 30 minutes. If no sharks show up, you receive a 25% refund.
Courses and briefings are available in English, Portuguese, Spanish and French.
Groups are normally limited to a maximum of 5–6 divers per dive guide. The team also tries to match divers with others of the same experience level.
July, August and September offer the best conditions: calmer seas, water temperatures between 21–23°C, and the highest visibility. Princess Alice Bank and shark diving trips also run primarily during these months.
Yes. Dive Azores stocks Mares BCDs, regulators, 7mm one-piece wetsuits with hoods, booties, gloves and adjustable fins. Tanks are 12L and 15L steel with both DIN and Yoke fittings. Dive computers, torches and SMBs are also available for rental.
Yes. SSI and PADI courses run from beginner to professional level. The SSI e-learning option allows students to complete the theory portion online before arriving on the island, so in-water training can start sooner. Introductory scuba dives (try-dives) and snorkeling tours are also available for those not ready to commit to a full course.
Yes — there is a hyperbaric chamber at Horta's Hospital, located on the island. For Princess Alice Bank dives, the chamber is approximately 2 to 2.5 hours away, so conservative dive profiles within recreational limits are strictly maintained on those trips.