Dive Azores operates directly from Horta Marina on Faial. Run by marine biologists, the dive center combines shark diving in the open Atlantic with coastal dives, freediving, whale and dolphin watching, and trips to Princess Alice Bank.
Diving with sharks
About an hour by boat from Faial, the trips head into deep blue water without bottom contact. Blue sharks are the most frequent encounter, while shortfin makos may occasionally appear. Guests can join on scuba, snorkel or participate as advanced freedivers. The animals that actually arrive depend on the season, weather, currents and shark activity.
The sharks are attracted with controlled chumming; no cage is used. In good conditions, the dive lasts about an hour, although the guide can end it at any time if conditions change. The most favorable period is usually July through September, when the water reaches around 21 to 23 degrees and visibility often exceeds 20 meters. Sightings can never be guaranteed.
Scuba divers need at least 30 logged dives, Advanced Open Water or an equivalent certification, and a check dive. Good buoyancy control is particularly important in blue water. Freedivers must hold at least AIDA 3, SSI Freediving Level 2 or Apnea Academy Level 2; less experienced guests can snorkel. A full suit, hood, gloves, boots, dark fins, a whistle or Air Horn, a surface marker buoy and valid dive insurance form part of the required safety equipment.
Small groups and equipment
Regular coastal trips usually include two dives at different sites, many of them only 10 to 20 minutes by boat from Horta. A guide normally dives with no more than five or six guests of similar experience. Alongside accessible sites for beginners, the program includes night dives, trial dives, and PADI and SSI training from entry level to professional courses.
Rental equipment includes 7 mm suits, regulators, BCDs, computers, lights, and 12- and 15-liter steel cylinders with DIN or INT valves. The two rigid inflatable boats carry radio, GPS, oxygen and first-aid equipment. A full tank, weights, drinks, a snack and a detailed briefing are included with the shark trip.
Princess Alice Bank
Princess Alice Bank lies about 45 miles southwest of Faial and is visited on a full-day trip with two dives. From July through September, sicklefin devil rays and large schools of pelagic fish are frequent possibilities. Because of the long crossing and sometimes strong currents, participants need at least 30 logged dives, Advanced Open Water, a check dive and valid insurance; every departure remains dependent on the weather and sea conditions.
