FAIAL ISLAND – THE AZORES I

From 1330€

FAIAL ISLAND – THE AZORES I

What to know?

Essential information for you to enjoy your trip to the fullest:

01/08/2025
08/08/2025
8 days
2 a day
From the ground
Portugal
Portuguese, English
Euros

What to know?

Essential information for you to enjoy your trip to the fullest:

Portugal
8 days
Portuguese, English
Euros
From the ground
2 a day

The best time to go to the Azores is from June to early October. All operators agree that the best months are August and September, when the water is warmest. The rest of the year can be tough and there is much more rain. Water temperatures between August and September are 20º / 25ºC.

During these summer months, there is also a higher concentration of pelagics, and visibility is considerably better.

It is a fascinating destination and not just underwater. The beauty of the islands is outstanding, so it is also worth taking hikes and land excursions to visit the islands on land. The Gulf Stream brings warmer waters, and the mix of this current with the cold ones, as well as the fact that it is in the middle of nowhere, makes this a perfect home for several different species. It is an oasis for pelagics and species that migrate and pass through this area.

To give you an idea of ​​marine biodiversity, there are 24 different species of cetaceans, 5 different species of sea turtles and more than 600 different species of fish, including large schools of pelagic fish, mobulas, manta rays and huge groupers.

There are three highlights when it comes to diving there: diving with the Blue Shark, diving with many mobulas at the same time, and whale shark encounters. Whale sharks and mako sharks are not as common or guaranteed as blue sharks and mobulas. Whales, pilot whales, and dolphins that inhabit the archipelago can also be seen. In addition, there are some super interesting shipwrecks, rock caverns, and also macro. So, it is definitely an interesting destination.

ITINERARY

Day 1 (August 1, Friday).

Departure from the airport in Spain to Horta (Faial), with a stopover in Lisbon. Arrival at the Manta Ray Lodge Hotel.

Days 2 to 5 (August 2 to 5).

Days of 2 daily dives (except Blue Shark day), visiting the most remote and special diving sites: Princess Alice Banks & Blue Shark.

Day 6 (August 6, Wednesday).

Experience exciting whale watching on the island.

Day 7 (August 7, Thursday).

Free day for shore excursions.

Day 8 (August 8, Friday).

Breakfast, check-out and transfer to Horta airport for the return flight to Spain. Flight with TAP Air Portugal. End of services provided.

SERVICES INCLUDED

  • Round trip airport transfers.
  • 7 nights accommodation in a shared double room with a/c and private bathroom), at the Manta Ray Lodge Hotel on a B&B basis.
  • Diving package according to program.
  • One day: Princess Alice upgrade (2 dives)* includes: 2 dives, boat trip, 12L tanks/air, weights, guide and light lunch.
  • One day: Blue Shark upgrade (1 dive)* includes: 1 dive, boat trip, 12L bottles/air, weights, guide and snack (water, cookies/fruit) between dives.
  • 12 litre bottles with air and lead.
  • Tourist taxes.
  • WIFI internet connection.
  • Travel and diving assistance insurance.

SERVICES NOT INCLUDED

  • International flights.
  • All meals and drinks not mentioned in the special diving trips.
  • Diving equipment rental (€80/week).
  • 15-litre bottle (available upon request).
  • Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks.
  • Personal expenses and tips.
  • Cancellation insurance (Check price).
  • Any concept not mentioned in “services included”.

Download the complete program

From the ground

HOTEL MANTA RAY LODGE

Manta Ray Lodge is a boutique Bed and Breakfast hotel located in Horta, Faial Island, Azores. With relaxed, comfortable elegance and great views of the ocean and Pico Mountain, it is the ideal retreat for the active traveler after a day exploring the Azorean wilderness. The lodge offers 7 uniquely decorated rooms, all with private bathrooms, and can accommodate up to 20 guests.

 

Manta Ray Lodge pays homage to the marine life of the Azores and all rooms are decorated with natural tones and textures that blend with the colors of the ocean in an elegant yet natural environment.

 

Manta Ray Lodge is within walking distance of Horta’s highlights (the Marina, Monte da Guia Marine Reserve, Porto Pim Beach, Whaling Museum, Botanical Garden), local shops and restaurants, and just a 10-minute drive from the airport.

From 1330€
Download the program

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