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.