Double dive in Santa Maria Island – Azores

Uncover Santa Maria’s Best-Kept Marine Secrets with a Double Guided Dive

The Double Dive in Santa Maria Island offers certified divers an exciting 3-hour adventure in one of the Azores’ top diving spots. At $188 per person, this tour includes two guided dives from the Estrada da Marina with all necessary equipment and a boat ride. The tour provider, Portugal Dive, holds a solid 4.3 rating, emphasizing a professional and well-organized experience suitable for those eager to explore underwater volcanic landscapes and encounter diverse marine species.

What sets this tour apart is its focus on marine life encounters, including sightings of pelagic species and mobulas. Plus, Santa Maria’s waters are part of a migratory route for whale sharks, adding an extra layer of excitement. The small group size, limited to just 8 participants, ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere, making it ideal for certified divers looking for a well-structured, safe, and memorable underwater experience.

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Key Points

• Two guided dives lasting about 2 hours each, with a briefing before the start
• Includes equipment, boat ride, and safety briefing at the start
• Price of $188 per person for the full 3-hour tour
• Tour departs from Estrada da Marina and is conducted in English, French, or Spanish
• Limited to 8 participants for a small, personalized group experience
• Suitable only for certified divers with a recent last dive within the year

Starting Point at Estrada da Marina

The tour begins at Estrada da Marina, a convenient location close to where many accommodations are situated. After a brief safety briefing of around 30 minutes, participants board a speedboat for the 15-minute transfer to the dive site. This quick boat ride offers a taste of the Azores’ scenic water views before you reach the vibrant underwater world.

The departure point is flexible, with the exact location shared after booking confirmation, ensuring the tour can be tailored as close as possible to your accommodation. This ease of access makes the experience straightforward for travelers staying on Santa Maria Island.

Santa Maria’s Underwater Landscape and Marine Diversity

Once you reach the designated dive site, the focus shifts to exploring Santa Maria’s crystal-clear waters. Visibility conditions reveal volcanic formations and colorful marine life, providing a stunning backdrop for the adventure.

Diving here gives you the chance to observe pelagic species, such as mobulas, swimming gracefully through the water. The waters are also part of a migratory route for whale sharks, which adds a rare chance to see these gentle giants, although sightings are not guaranteed. The marine biodiversity in the area makes each dive a unique experience, with many opportunities for photography and underwater observation.

The Dives’ Structure and Dive Site Details

Each of the two dives lasts approximately 1 hour, with a 15-minute boat transfer in between. The dives are guided, ensuring safety and enriching the experience with insights about the underwater environment. The briefing covers the dive plan and emphasizes responsible interaction with marine life and the ecosystem.

The volcanic underwater landscape offers an intriguing setting, with formations that are both visually impressive and vital to the local marine habitat. Expect to see schools of fish, possibly mobulas, and other marine species typical of the Azores’ waters.

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Equipment and Safety Measures

The tour includes all necessary diving equipment, so participants only need to bring swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and their diving certification. The guides lead the group through the briefing and dives, focusing on safety and environmental responsibility.

A key safety note is that your last dive must be within the past year. For those whose most recent dive was longer ago, a reactivation or skills update is mandatory before participating. The tour is not suitable for children under 10 years, pregnant women, or individuals with mobility impairments or who are non-swimmers.

The Experience with Portuguese Guides

Guides from Portugal Dive speak English, French, and Spanish, making communication easy for international travelers. They are experienced in leading small groups, ensuring that each diver benefits from personal attention and detailed explanations.

The guides are committed to responsible interaction with marine life, emphasizing respect for the environment during the dives. Their local knowledge enhances the experience, making each exploration informative and safe.

Practicalities: Booking, Cancellation, and Group Size

Booking the tour is straightforward, with a full refund available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance. The tour’s small group limit of 8 participants guarantees a more intimate experience, reducing crowds and allowing for personalized guidance.

The duration of 3 hours offers a manageable window for most travelers, fitting easily into a day of sightseeing or relaxing on Santa Maria. Starting times can be checked for availability, and the tour can be adapted to suit your schedule.

Who Will Appreciate This Dive Experience?

This tour is perfect for certified divers who want to explore the Azores’ underwater beauty without the hassle of organizing their own dives. It suits those interested in diving in volcanic landscapes, observing pelagic species, and possibly catching a glimpse of a whale shark. Because the tour is limited in size and led by experienced guides, it offers a personalized, safe, and environmentally conscious diving adventure.

While not suitable for non-divers or those without certification, it provides a chance to enjoy Santa Maria’s underwater wonders with expert guidance and all necessary gear provided.

Final Thoughts on the Santa Maria Double Dive

The Double Dive in Santa Maria offers a compelling opportunity to experience diving in one of the Azores’ prime locations. The combination of crystal-clear visibility, diverse marine life, volcanic scenery, and the chance to see mobulas and possibly whale sharks makes it a highlight for underwater enthusiasts.

The price of $188 for two guided dives and included equipment is reasonable considering the quality of the environment and the personalized small-group setting. The well-organized logistics, from the convenient meeting point to the quick boat transfers, ensure a smooth experience.

This tour excels in delivering a professional, safe, and environmentally responsible diving experience. It is a must-do for certified divers visiting Santa Maria Island, particularly those eager to explore the vibrant, volcanic waters of the Azores.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to bring my own diving gear?
No, the tour includes all necessary equipment, but you should bring your dive certification, swimwear, towel, and sunscreen.

Can I participate if my last dive was over a year ago?
No, your last dive must be within the past year. If not, a reactivation or skills update is required before participating.

What language do guides speak?
Guides speak English, French, and Spanish, ensuring clear communication during the briefing and dives.

Is this tour suitable for children or non-divers?
No, it is designed for certified divers only. It is not suitable for children under 10 years, pregnant women, or individuals with mobility impairments or who cannot swim.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

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