Azores: Swimming with the Sharks

Traveling to the Azores offers a chance to connect with some of the most vibrant marine life in Europe. The “Swimming with the Sharks” tour in Faial Island is a unique opportunity to get up close to Blue Sharks and Hammerhead Sharks in their natural environment. This experience isn’t just about adrenaline; it combines education, conservation, and authentic marine encounters, making it perfect for the curious traveler eager to learn and explore.

What really stands out here is the careful balance between adventure and respect for marine ecosystems. The small group size (limited to six participants) promises a more intimate experience, fostering closer interactions with the sharks and marine life. One potential consideration is that weather conditions can affect the tour’s schedule, so it’s good to be flexible.

If you’re someone who loves marine wildlife, enjoys snorkeling, and is keen to support sustainable tourism, this tour could be a highlight of your Azores adventure. It’s well-suited for those who want a safe, educational, and memorable experience without prior diving certifications.

Key Points

• Close Encounters: Small group sizes ensure a more personal and safer interaction with sharks.
• Expert Guidance: Marine biologist Silvio Solleliet-Ferreira, a shark specialist, leads the tour, sharing in-depth knowledge about shark behavior.
• Accessible for Beginners: No previous experience is required—just basic snorkeling skills and a coastal check dive.
• Holistic Marine Experience: Expect to see dolphins, turtles, seabirds, and other marine animals during the day.
• Sustainability Focus: The activity emphasizes education and protecting sharks through responsible tourism.
• Local Flavor: Enjoy fresh, local snacks like cheese, bread, and Malagueta peppers, adding a taste of Azorean culture.

A detailed look at the Azores: Swimming with the Sharks tour

Starting the Day: Meeting and Equipment

The tour begins at either Horta Marina on Faial or Madalena Harbour on Pico, depending on your preference or pickup arrangements. The flexibility to choose your meeting point is a small but appreciated detail, especially for travelers staying on Pico. The group is limited to six participants, which makes for a cozy, less crowded experience—something many reviews plant as a highlight.

Once gathered, you’ll have the chance to try your snorkeling gear, including wetsuits, masks, and fins, if needed. This prep phase is important—being comfortable with your equipment can significantly boost your confidence during the encounter. The guide, Silvio, will brief you thoroughly on shark behaviour and safety rules, setting the tone for the adventure.

The Check Dive: Refreshing Your Skills

Before heading into the open water, a short 15-minute coastal check dive in a pristine marine protected area helps to refresh your basic snorkeling skills—like clearing foggy masks and finning. This small, calm dive is also a chance to get familiar with your gear in a safe environment, easing nerves and ensuring everyone is ready for the main event.

This part of the tour receives praise for its peaceful setting and the opportunity to observe local sea life, including colorful fish and perhaps even seabirds overhead. It’s a gentle warm-up that builds confidence before the main attraction.

Heading Out: Chumming and Shark Watching

The boat ride to the shark hotspots lasts between 30 minutes and an hour, depending on the location. During this time, Silvio shares his extensive knowledge about shark species, their behaviors, and conservation efforts. You’ll learn that chumming (attracting sharks with bait) can take anywhere from 20 minutes to a few hours, which means patience is key.

What’s remarkable about this experience is the wait for the sharks to show up. Reviewers note that the sharks may take some time to appear, but that’s part of the thrill. When they do arrive, the scene is mesmerizing—Blue Sharks and Hammerheads often come close enough to touch the surface, all under the watchful eye of your guide.

The Swim: Up Close and Personal

Once the sharks arrive, you’ll see them swimming gracefully around the boat. The 30 to 45-minute swim allows for close interactions, especially since small groups mean fewer disturbances to the marine environment. Several reviews remark that the guides are attentive, ensuring safety and respecting the sharks’ space.

One reviewer highlighted that “the experience of swimming just meters from these majestic animals was unforgettable”, emphasizing how well the activity is managed. The safety protocols and the guide’s expertise make the encounter both exciting and reassuring—no need to worry about being in over your head.

Marine Life Beyond Sharks

While sharks steal the spotlight, the day is also filled with opportunities to spot dolphins, turtles, seabirds, and other marine species gliding through the waters. Many travelers find these additional sightings a bonus that makes the trip even richer.

Returning and Refreshments

After the swim, you’ll head back to the marina, completing a total experience that lasts between 3 to 5 hours. Along the way, local snacks such as soft cheese, fresh bread, and Malagueta peppers are served, offering a taste of regional flavors. This thoughtful inclusion adds a relaxed, communal vibe to the adventure.

Price and Value

At $411 per person, the tour is a significant investment, but many feel it’s justified given the expert guidance, small groups, and the unique nature of the experience. It’s not just a swim; it’s an educational journey that supports sustainable practices and marine conservation. The inclusion of snacks, drinks, and the chance to see other marine life enhances the overall value.

Practicalities and Considerations

• Weather dependence: Tours can be canceled in bad weather, so flexibility is essential.
• No prior experience needed: Just bring basic snorkeling abilities and a desire to learn.
• Suitability: Not recommended for those over 70, wheelchair users, or anyone prone to seasickness.
• What to bring: Towel, water, hat, biodegradable sunscreen, waterproof shoes, snacks, windbreaker, sunglasses.
• Group size: Limiting to 6 participants maximizes safety and interaction quality.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This activity is perfect for adventurous travelers, marine lovers, and those interested in wildlife conservation. It’s especially suited for beginners or snorkelers without diving certifications, thanks to the short coastal check dive and guided supervision. If you’re looking for a meaningful experience that combines thrill with education, this tour checks the box.

However, if you’re prone to seasickness or prefer dry land, this might not be ideal. Also, the weather can influence your plans, so flexible scheduling can make the difference between an unforgettable adventure and a canceled trip.

Final Thoughts

Swimming with sharks in the Azores offers a rare blend of exhilaration, education, and environmental awareness. The tour’s focus on responsible tourism and close marine encounters makes it stand out among other ocean activities. The small group size and expert guidance ensure that every guest feels safe and engaged, while the chance to see other marine animals enriches the experience.

While the price is on the higher side, the value lies in the quality of the interaction, the conservation message, and the intimate, personal nature of the experience. It’s a fantastic option for travelers who want more than just sightseeing—they want to connect with the ocean and its mysterious inhabitants in a respectful, memorable way.

If you’re an ocean lover and eager to support sustainable marine tourism, this adventure is sure to leave you with stories that will last long after you leave the Azores.

FAQ

Is prior snorkeling experience required?
No, only basic snorkeling skills are necessary. The tour includes a short coastal check dive to prepare everyone.

What kind of sharks will I see?
You’ll encounter Blue Sharks and/or Hammerhead Sharks, depending on the day’s sightings.

Can I bring my own snorkeling gear?
Yes, you can try your own equipment or use the gear provided, which includes wetsuits, masks, and fins.

How long is the boat ride?
The boat ride to the shark spot lasts between 30 minutes and 1 hour, based on the location.

Are there other marine animals besides sharks?
Yes, dolphins, turtles, seabirds, and other marine life are often spotted during the trip.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring a towel, water, hat, biodegradable sunscreen, waterproof shoes, snacks, windbreaker, and sunglasses.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is best suited for adults or children over a certain age (not specified), and not suitable for those prone to seasickness.

What if the weather is bad?
Tours may be canceled if ocean conditions are poor. It’s advised to check the weather forecast and be flexible.

How much does the tour cost?
The cost is $411 per person, which includes guiding, small group interaction, snacks, and marine spotting opportunities.

This snorkeling adventure in the Azores promises a memorable day immersed in marine wonder, perfectly balanced between thrill and responsibility. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or simply seeking a unique experience, it’s an activity worth considering for your Azores itinerary.