São Miguel: Santa Iria Bay Snorkeling Tour with Music

If you’re planning a trip to the Azores and looking for a blend of ocean adventure and scenic beauty, the Santa Iria Bay Snorkeling Tour by AG Expeditions could be just what you need. This experience offers a gentle introduction to the island’s vibrant marine life, set against some of the most striking coastal views São Miguel has to offer.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it combines a relaxed, guided snorkeling experience with the chance to enjoy music and stunning scenery. It’s perfect for those who want a taste of the Azorean coast without the full-on adrenaline rush of more intense excursions. On the flip side, if you’re after a longer or more action-packed day of adventure, this might feel a little short or subdued.

This tour is well-suited for travelers who value comfort, scenic beauty, and a peaceful underwater exploration. It’s especially good if you enjoy relaxing on a boat with a nice soundtrack in the background and don’t mind a modest time commitment. Now, let’s break down what makes this experience stand out and whether it’s right for your trip.

Key Points

• Beautiful coastal scenery: Sail past dramatic cliffs and hidden beaches, offering plenty of photo opportunities.
• Vibrant marine life: Snorkel in clear waters with abundant volcanic coastline species.
• Relaxing atmosphere: Enjoy music on board, creating a laid-back vibe.
• Informative guide: Learn about the geology and traditions of São Miguel from local experts.
• Short and accessible: With a 2-hour duration, it’s easy to fit into a busy schedule.
• Family-friendly: Suitable for non-swimmers and those over 6 years old, but not for pregnant women or people with certain health issues.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Setting the Scene: What to Expect

This tour kicks off at AG Expeditions, where you’ll meet at their kiosk near the naval club in Rabo de Peixe. From there, it’s a quick 10-minute boat ride through the waters of São Miguel, passing by charming spots like Santa Barbara Beach and Ribeira Grande. These scenic routes set the tone for a peaceful, picture-worthy trip along the island’s rugged north coast.

The highlight is undoubtedly the snorkeling session at Santa Iria Bay, where crystal-clear waters invite you to explore. The bay is known for its volcanic origins, resulting in vibrant marine life that you can observe close-up. The 75-minute snorkeling gives you enough time to enjoy the underwater landscape without feeling rushed, and snorkeling equipment, life jackets, and safety gear are all supplied.

Throughout the journey, your guide shares insights into the region’s geology and local traditions, adding educational value to the experience. Afterwards, you’ll return to the starting point, feeling refreshed and enriched by the scenery and stories.

The Itinerary In Detail

Starting Point: AG Expeditions

You’ll meet at their kiosk, which is conveniently located near the naval club in Rabo de Peixe. Arriving 30 minutes early is recommended, giving you time to settle in and get ready.

Rabo de Peixe – Guided Tour (10 Minutes)

The boat ride begins here, providing a brief but scenic introduction to the area’s coastline. You’ll pass by Santa Barbara Beach, a spot that’s picturesque but just a quick pass-by, not a stop.

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Ribeira Grande – Pass By (5 Minutes)

This charming town’s views from the water add to the overall experience, giving you a sense of the island’s local vibe.

Santa Iria Bay – Snorkeling (75 Minutes)

This is the main event. The bay’s clear waters are perfect for spotting marine life, and the volcanic backdrop makes for a stunning setting. The gentle snorkel is suitable for non-swimmers, provided you wear the life jacket, making it accessible for many.

Return to AG Expeditions

After the snorkeling, you’ll head back to the kiosk, completing a peaceful two-hour adventure.

Practical Details and What They Mean for You

What’s Included?

The tour provides guided boat experience, snorkeling equipment, life jackets, safety gear, and cultural and geological interpretation. This means you’re well-equipped and educated — no hidden costs or need to rent gear elsewhere.

Cost and Value

At $82 per person, this experience is reasonably priced for a two-hour tour that combines scenic sailing, marine exploration, and educational commentary. Since it’s a relatively short activity, it offers good value if you’re looking for a light, relaxing coastal experience without a large time investment.

Transportation & Meeting Point

Meeting at the kiosk near the naval club in Rabo de Peixe makes for an easy start, with free parking available nearby. Arriving 30 minutes early ensures a smooth check-in and gear setup.

Duration & Group Size

At 2 hours, it’s perfect for those with limited time or who prefer a gentle outing. The tour operates with a live guide speaking Portuguese, English, and Spanish, accommodating a diverse range of visitors. Group sizes tend to be manageable, fostering a friendly atmosphere.

Suitability & Restrictions

This tour isn’t suitable for children under 6, pregnant women, or people with back or heart problems. Non-swimmers can participate with the provided safety gear, but if you’re very uncomfortable in the water, this might not be ideal. It’s not a tour designed for thrill-seekers but rather for relaxed exploration and enjoying the scenery.

Why It Works (and Why It Might Not)

We loved the way the tour balances peaceful sailing with underwater discovery. The scenery — cliffs, hidden beaches, volcanic formations — is genuinely captivating and photogenic. Plus, the inclusion of music on board creates a laid-back vibe that makes the entire experience feel like a mini get-away.

That said, because the tour is only 2 hours, it’s quite brief. If you’re craving a longer or more intense snorkeling adventure, you might find this a bit light or feel the need to supplement it with additional activities. Also, if your main goal is to see multiple snorkeling sites or explore underwater caves, this tour focuses on just one bay, which is worth knowing upfront.

From reviews, travelers mention how relaxing and pretty the journey is, with many appreciating the educational snippets about local geology and customs. Some noted that the boat ride offers excellent views, especially along the north coast’s cliffs and beaches.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This Santa Iria Bay Snorkeling Tour is ideal for travelers who want a calm, scenic introduction to São Miguel’s marine environment. It’s perfect if you enjoy gentle boat rides with good company, beautiful views, and underwater glimpses without too much exertion. Families with children over 6, groups of friends, or solo travelers looking for a relaxing hour or two on the water will find it particularly appealing.

If your trip is packed and you’re after a quick, scenic experience, this tour fits seamlessly into a broader itinerary. However, if you’re after a full-day adventure or more adrenaline-pumping activities, you might want to look at other options on the island.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Yes, non-swimmers can participate comfortably with the provided life jackets and safety gear. The snorkeling session is short and gentle, making it accessible for most.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, water, a jacket, and personal medication are recommended. Since you’ll be on the water, packing a waterproof bag for your belongings is a good idea.

How long does the snorkeling last?
The snorkeling segment at Santa Iria Bay lasts about 75 minutes, giving enough time to explore without feeling rushed.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if plans change.

What’s the group size?
While not specified precisely, guided tours like this usually keep groups manageable, ensuring personalized attention.

Are there any age restrictions?
Children under 6 are not allowed, but kids over that age who can wear a life jacket and are comfortable in water should have no problem.

Is there parking nearby?
Yes, there is free parking near the kiosk, making logistics easier.

What languages are the guides speaking?
The tour is offered in Portuguese, English, and Spanish, accommodating diverse visitors.

Final Summary

All in all, the Santa Iria Bay Snorkeling Tour offers a peaceful, scenic way to enjoy São Miguel’s coast and underwater environment. It’s a straightforward, well-organized experience that balances relaxation, light adventure, and education. If you’re after a short but sweet taste of the island’s marine beauty, this tour could be a great addition to your trip.

While it might not satisfy those craving a full-day or high-adrenaline activity, its affordability, ease, and stunning views make it an excellent choice for anyone wanting a gentle intro to the Azores’ underwater world. Perfect for a laid-back day on the water — and a memorable one at that.

You can check availability for your dates here: