Diving the Azores… This incredible archipelago of nine major volcanic islands is a truly unique and special part of the world, isolated in the vastness of the northern Atlantic Ocean.
]The Azores form an autonomous region of Portugal. But their physical location is much closer to the middle of the Atlantic.
The islands lie some 1300 kms to the west of continental Europe and 1900 kms to the south-east of Newfoundland in Canada.
That remarkable isolation, combined with their position along important oceanic routes, makes the Azores an important gathering point for some of the northern hemisphere’s largest marine animals.
The islands act as beacons for a wide variety of migratory whales and other pelagic species that pass through the surrounding waters.
The Azores are renowned for encounters with blue sharks and are home to a resident population of sperm whales. Providing some remarkable opportunities for divers and underwater photographers to experience these magnificent animals in their natural environment.
And there is some excellent scuba diving to complement the big-animal encounters. The volcanic origins of the islands have created a fascinating underwater landscape of reefs, walls, pinnacles and offshore seamounts, with the Princess Alice Seamount perhaps the best known of them all.
Above the surface, the Azores are equally impressive. The islands are stunningly photogenic, with dramatic volcanic scenery, lush green landscapes and picturesque coastal communities. Their geographical isolation has also helped create a distinctive culture and identity, while the people of the Azores retain a strong sense of pride and fierce independence.
All these elements combine to make the Azores a fascinating destination, both above and below the surface.
The pages, links and images below will help you discover more about the history, culture, marine life and scuba diving of this remarkable Atlantic archipelago — and hopefully give you a better understanding of what makes diving the Azores such a special experience.
Diving the Azores – Explore More…
The Sperm Whales of the Azores
The Blue Sharks of the Azores
Diving Princess Alice Seamount
Azores Diving – Big Animals
Open Boat Whaling in the Azores
Azores Information