DiveAzores
Rua Jaime Lopes (Feijó), Horta, MEX
Sobre el Centro
DiveAzores, ubicado en Horta, México, es un centro de buceo y operador ecoturístico de avistamiento de ballenas establecido en 2002 y dirigido por biólogos marinos. Ofrece recorridos respetuosos y educativos de avistamiento de ballenas y delfines, junto con inmersiones seguras y un servicio profesional y personalizado. Su misión es involucrar e inspirar a los visitantes sobre los ecosistemas marinos y sus habitantes.
El centro proporciona una amplia gama de actividades acuáticas. Para los buceadores, ofrece cursos PADI y SSI desde niveles de principiante hasta profesionales y especialidades, incluyendo el curso Advanced Open Water. También hay disponibles cursos de Freediving. Para los más aventureros, DiveAzores organiza excursiones de buceo con tiburones azules en mar abierto y expediciones a Princess Alice Bank, uno de los sitios de buceo más emocionantes del Atlántico.
Las instalaciones de DiveAzores incluyen taquillas, un bar, alojamiento, alquiler de equipos y llenado de aire (nitrox). Ofrecen oportunidades para el buceo nocturno, permitiendo a los buceadores experimentar la vida marina desde una perspectiva diferente. El centro también participa en iniciativas de conservación, ofreciendo programas como pasantías, oportunidades para estudiantes de máster, estudios de peces y cursos de conservación de ballenas, lo que refleja su compromiso con la investigación y protección marina.
Cursos Disponibles
6 cursosFreediving
Dive Azores offers comprehensive Freediving Courses designed for individuals eager to explore the underwater world using only their breath. These programs are meticulously crafted to impart the essential techniques and stringent safety protocols required for safe and rewarding freediving experiences. Whether you are taking your first plunge into the realm of freediving or are an experienced diver aiming to refine your abilities, Dive Azores provides tailored programs to suit your aspirations. The curriculum delves into critical aspects such as advanced breath-hold techniques, effective equalization methods, optimal finning propulsion, and crucial safety procedures. You will gain a deep understanding of how to manage your body's physiological responses during breath-holds and master the art of performing effective buddy rescues, ensuring a secure environment for yourself and your dive partner. Training is conducted across both controlled confined water settings and the dynamic open water environments of the Azores. Confined water sessions serve as a vital training ground for practicing fundamental skills like static apnea (holding your breath while stationary) and dynamic apnea (swimming horizontally on a single breath) in a secure setting. Subsequently, open water dives provide the opportunity to apply these honed techniques within the natural marine ecosystem, allowing you to discover the rich biodiversity and stunning underwater landscapes that the Azores are renowned for. Instructors prioritize the development of proper technique and encourage gradual progression, fostering confidence and comfort at each participant's own pace. The overarching objective is to cultivate efficient breathing patterns and safely extend breath-hold durations, with a strong emphasis on understanding freediving physiology and mastering relaxation techniques. Freediving in the Azores presents an unparalleled opportunity to forge an intimate connection with the marine environment. The exceptional clarity of the waters, coupled with the abundant and diverse marine life, creates a breathtaking backdrop for both practicing and fully enjoying the sport of freediving. The center's instructors are not only highly knowledgeable about freediving but also deeply passionate about sharing their expertise, committed to delivering training of the highest quality. Participants will learn to perceive the underwater world from a profoundly different perspective, immersing themselves in the tranquility and profound silence of the ocean. These courses are ideally suited for individuals seeking a novel challenge or a more profound connection with the marine world. Safety remains the paramount concern throughout all training, with instructors diligently ensuring that every participant is thoroughly prepared and adheres strictly to established safety guidelines. Dive Azores is certified by IDEA, PADI, and SSI, offering internationally recognized standards for its freediving education. The center operates with a commitment to small group sizes, ensuring personalized attention and maximizing learning opportunities for each student. While specific monthly water temperatures and visibility data are not provided in the input, the Azores are known for their generally clear waters and temperate Atlantic conditions, making it a suitable location for freediving year-round, though specific conditions can vary. The center's multilingual staff, fluent in English, Spanish, French, and Portuguese, ensures that a diverse range of students can comfortably participate and receive instruction in their preferred language. This dedication to accessibility and quality training makes Dive Azores a premier destination for anyone looking to embark on a freediving journey.
Advanced Open Water
Elevate your diving experience with the Advanced Open Water Diver course at Dive Azores, located in Faial Island. This program is designed to build upon your Open Water certification, enabling you to explore deeper dive sites and expand your underwater capabilities. The curriculum includes five specialized adventure dives, focusing on practical application and introducing you to various diving techniques. You will gain more experience and confidence underwater, refining your skills and discovering new aspects of the marine environment. The course typically includes a deep dive, where you'll learn to plan and execute dives to depths between 18 and 30 meters, and an underwater navigation dive to hone your compass and natural navigation skills. Other specialties may include drift diving, night diving, or peak performance buoyancy, tailored to the local conditions and instructor expertise. These adventure dives are conducted at diverse sites around Faial Island, offering volcanic walls and potential encounters with larger pelagic species. Dive Azores is affiliated with PADI, IDEA, and SSI, allowing certification through multiple recognized agencies. Faial Island provides a unique backdrop for advanced diving, with its rich volcanic topography and abundant marine life. While specific monthly climate data is not provided, the Azores are known for their temperate waters, often supporting diverse ecosystems. The instructors at Dive Azores are experienced marine biologists and dive professionals who offer in-depth knowledge of the local marine ecosystems. They ensure all dives are conducted safely and responsibly, with a focus on personalized attention in small group formats. Completing the Advanced Open Water Diver course will increase your certified depth limit to 30 meters (100 feet). This certification is often a prerequisite for specialized dives, such as exploring renowned sites like Princess Alice Bank or engaging in shark diving experiences. By mastering skills like precise buoyancy control and effective navigation, you will be better prepared for more complex diving environments and unlock a wider range of dive site opportunities worldwide. The center offers instruction in English, Portuguese, Spanish, and French.
Discover Scuba Diving
Dive Azores invites you to experience the underwater world with their Discover Scuba Diving program, an ideal introduction for those without prior certification. This program is conducted under the direct supervision of certified PADI or SSI instructors, ensuring a safe and informative first dive. You'll begin with essential theory covering equipment and safety, followed by practicing fundamental skills in shallow water, such as clearing your mask and recovering your regulator. The experience culminates in an open water dive, offering a genuine taste of scuba exploration in the Azorean marine environment. The waters around Faial Island, where Dive Azores is located, provide a captivating glimpse into the rich biodiversity of the Azores. While specific monthly climate data is not provided, the general marine environment offers opportunities to encounter various fish species and unique underwater topography. The instructors focus on making participants comfortable and confident, allowing them to fully appreciate the sensation of breathing underwater and the beauty of the marine life firsthand. This introductory dive is designed to be an accessible and enjoyable first encounter with scuba diving. Dive Azores is committed to providing a high-quality learning experience, with instructors fluent in English, Spanish, French, and Portuguese. While specific instructor-to-student ratios are not detailed, the emphasis on direct supervision suggests a focus on individual attention. The program is structured to build confidence and ensure safety, making it a perfect stepping stone for those considering a full Open Water Diver certification. This experience is tailored to provide a memorable and positive introduction to the sport. This Discover Scuba Diving experience is not a certification but a valuable introduction to the principles and sensations of scuba diving. It allows participants to explore the underwater realm, experience weightlessness, and witness the marine world's beauty. The program prioritizes safety and enjoyment, making it a fantastic adventure for travelers seeking a unique activity. Participants will be guided by experienced professionals passionate about the ocean, ensuring all safety protocols are followed and the experience is as rewarding as possible. It's an opportunity to explore a new world and create lasting memories.
Open Water Diver
The PADI or SSI Open Water Diver course at Dive Azores is your gateway to exploring the underwater world of the Azores. This foundational certification program is designed to equip you with the essential knowledge and skills for safe and enjoyable scuba diving. You will learn about dive planning, equipment configuration and use, buoyancy control techniques, and critical safety procedures. The course structure emphasizes a balance between theoretical understanding and practical application, ensuring you gain confidence in every aspect of diving. Dive Azores offers the flexibility to complete the theoretical portion online through SSI's E-learning system. This allows you to study at your own pace before arriving, maximizing your time in the water. The curriculum covers vital topics such as the effects of pressure on the body, gas laws relevant to diving, and how to identify the diverse marine life found in the Azorean archipelago. Practical training begins in confined water, where you'll master fundamental skills like mask clearing and regulator recovery in a controlled environment. These sessions are crucial for building comfort and proficiency before progressing to open water. Your open water dives will take place at local dive sites around Faial Island, providing a real-world application of your new skills. You'll have the opportunity to explore volcanic formations and encounter the rich marine biodiversity characteristic of the region. Instructors will guide you through each dive, offering feedback and support to ensure you are applying your training effectively. Upon successful completion, you will be certified to dive with a buddy to a maximum depth of 18 meters (60 feet) anywhere in the world, recognized globally by PADI or SSI. Instructors at Dive Azores are experienced professionals passionate about the ocean and dedicated to providing high-quality training. They are fluent in English, Portuguese, Spanish, and French, ensuring clear communication and a supportive learning atmosphere for a diverse range of students. The small group sizes are a key feature, allowing for personalized attention and a more tailored learning experience. This approach ensures that each student receives the best possible education for responsible diving practices.
Shark Diving
Dive Azores offers a specialized Shark Diving course focused on encountering blue sharks in their natural environment off Faial Island. This expedition ventures into deep, open waters, approximately one hour by boat from the shore. Participants will have the opportunity to observe blue sharks, renowned for their elegant movements and striking blue coloration, with occasional sightings of shortfin makos. The program begins with an in-depth lecture delivered by marine biologists and certified guides, covering essential topics such as shark biology, behavior patterns, and the critical importance of responsible diving practices. This theoretical preparation is fundamental for understanding and respecting these magnificent apex predators before entering their domain. Sharks are attracted using controlled chumming techniques, leveraging their acute sense of smell to frequent known feeding grounds, leading to frequent sightings. The dive duration can extend up to an hour, contingent on favorable weather and sea conditions. The expedition leader retains the authority to modify or cancel the dive if conditions deteriorate or for safety considerations. The success rate for blue shark encounters is notably high, frequently surpassing 90%, especially during the peak season from July to September when water temperatures are warmer and visibility is optimal. This specialized dive presents a unique challenge due to the absence of bottom references and the requirement for advanced buoyancy control. Consequently, specific prerequisites are enforced to ensure participant safety and the well-being of the sharks. To participate in this advanced specialty, scuba divers must possess a minimum of 30 logged dives and hold an Advanced Open Water certification or an equivalent qualification. A mandatory check-out dive will be conducted prior to the main expedition to assess each diver's skills and ensure their equipment is properly configured. For freedivers, an advanced certification such as AIDA 3, SSI 2, or APNEA ACADEMY 2 is required. All participants must wear full dive suits, including gloves, hoods, and booties, and carry essential safety equipment like a whistle and a Surface Marker Buoy (SMB). The program is committed to maintaining a safe and respectful environment, with chumming kept to a minimum to encourage natural shark behavior and minimize disturbance. Dive Azores actively champions shark conservation, supporting initiatives for shark sanctuaries and contributing to ongoing research. By enrolling in this Shark Diving course, you directly contribute to these vital conservation efforts and help raise awareness about the critical need to protect shark populations worldwide. This is a remarkable chance to witness one of the ocean's most ancient and awe-inspiring predators up close, fostering a deeper appreciation for their indispensable role within the marine ecosystem. The center also offers courses in English, Spanish, French, and Portuguese, catering to a diverse international clientele.
Princess Alice Bank
Embark on an extraordinary deep-sea adventure to Princess Alice Bank, a renowned submerged seamount located approximately 45 miles southwest of Faial Island. This fully protected marine area, designated as such since 2025, rises dramatically from depths of 2000 meters to a shallow peak around 32 meters, creating a unique ecosystem that attracts abundant pelagic life. Dive into this protected zone with Dive Azores for an unparalleled encounter with nature's grandeur. The highlight of diving Princess Alice Bank is the high probability of encountering large congregations of giant mobula rays, often numbering between 20 to 40 individuals. You'll also witness vast shoals of barracudas, amberjacks, bonitos, and tunas. Keep an eye out for wahoo near the surface and large stingrays patrolling the seabed. The biodiversity is exceptional, with opportunities to spot sunfish, whale sharks, and even whales, making each dive a potentially life-changing experience. This full-day excursion aboard the 10m RIB boat PAIKEA begins with an early morning departure around 7:30 AM, reaching the bank by 10:00 AM for your first dive. The journey itself offers chances to see dolphins and whales. After the initial dive, enjoy a surface interval with lunch and snorkeling, as mobulas are frequently sighted near the surface. The second dive is scheduled for around 1:00 PM, before returning to Faial by approximately 5:30 PM. A detailed briefing is provided the day before your adventure. The optimal season for diving Princess Alice Bank is from July to September, offering calmer seas, water temperatures between 20-24°C, and visibility up to 25-30 meters. These months also see increased sightings of mobulas and pelagic fish. Due to the bank's remote location, trips are weather-dependent, making a week-long stay advisable to maximize opportunities. This dive requires at least 30 logged dives and an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent, with a mandatory check-out dive to assess skills and equipment. Safety lines are utilized for enhanced security during your dive.
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We work with experienced land-based observers, locally named “vigias” that search and track whales and dolphins with binoculars, so our observation success is very high. Additionally, an onboard hydrophone (underwater microphone) can be used for sperm whale detection.
KEIKO is a 9m zodiac powered by a 300Hp Suzuki 4-stroke outboard engine. It combines speed with extraordinary stability, being the ideal choice for Azores sea conditions. The reduced number of passengers aboard (max. 14) keeps the tours personal.
Tours may be cancelled due to sea conditions, absence of animals, or unforeseen circumstances. In these cases, we can rebook you for another day or give you a full refund.
While it is possible to see whales all year round, the best time is from March through October, mainly because of weather and sea conditions.
Yes, all our tours help finance Whale Projects Azores (WPA) research and conservation efforts.
For scuba divers, +30 logged dives and Advanced Open Water or equivalent certification is required. Good buoyancy control is fundamental. For freedivers, only advanced freedivers (AIDA 3, SSI 2 or APNEA ACADEMY 2) can join this activity.
+30 logged dives and Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent are required. These are challenging offshore dives with the possibility of strong currents, so not for inexperienced divers.