Terceira in the Azores offers some of the most rewarding scuba diving experiences in Portugal. Its calm, clear waters and abundant marine life make it a standout destination for divers of all skill levels. Two tours particularly shine: the Third Island: Try Scuba in a Shipwreck-Archaeological Park appeals to beginners eager to explore a sunken vessel, while the Terceira Azores: Scuba-Double dive Trip caters to certified divers who love exploring unique underwater terrain and historic wrecks. We think the shipwreck experience is especially great for first-timers, offering safety, guidance, and plenty of marine wildlife sightings, making it a practical choice for those just getting started.
In this guide, you’ll find an overview of the best scuba outings in Terceira, each with its own appeal — from beginner-friendly introductions to more advanced dives for experienced underwater explorers. Whether you’re looking for a quick, safe introduction or an immersive, multi-hour expedition, there’s an option here for you.
1. Third Island: Try Scuba in a Shipwreck-Archeological park
At number one on our list is the Try Scuba experience, which is perfect if you want to see what diving is like without needing certification. This 1.5-hour guided tour takes place in the calm waters of the Bay of Angra do Heroismo, making it a comfortable choice for beginners. The adventure begins with equipment training and a safety briefing from professional divers, ensuring you feel confident before plunging into the water. Once underwater, you’ll explore the sunken Lidador shipwreck, a fascinating site home to an array of marine creatures like grouper, octopus, and starfish.
What makes this experience stand out is the opportunity to combine marine wildlife viewing with a safe, guided introduction to scuba diving. The calm, sheltered bay offers excellent visibility, and the professional team’s focus on safety and patience earns consistent high praise — many reviewers mention feeling completely at ease, even on their first dive.
Bottom Line: For around $130, this is a fantastic first taste of scuba and an ideal choice for anyone wanting a quick, safe, and memorable underwater adventure in the Azores.
2. Terceira Azores: Scuba-Double dive Trip (certified Divers)
For those with certification and some experience, the Scuba-Double Dive Trip offers a 4-hour underwater exploration. This tour is tailored for certified divers eager to enjoy the Azores’ crystal-clear waters, which are renowned for their diverse marine life and unique topography. The tour typically includes two dives, allowing you to fully appreciate the underwater landscape, including historic shipwrecks and vibrant reefs.
The guides focus on safety, with professional instruction and equipment that’s modern and well-maintained. Many reviews highlight the opportunity to see marine species such as octopus, grouper, and various crustaceans, making the trip a real treat for underwater photographers or anyone passionate about marine wildlife. The experience’s longer duration and more extensive exploration make it better suited for experienced, physically fit divers who want a comprehensive dive.
Bottom Line: At just over $127, this tour provides excellent value for two dives and is best for certified divers looking for a substantial, well-organized underwater adventure.
How to Choose
When deciding between these two fantastic options, consider your experience level, budget, and time availability. The Try Scuba in the Shipwreck Archeological Park is perfect if you’re new to diving or want a brief, guided introduction — it’s a manageable 1.5 hours and well-reviewed for safety and friendliness. In contrast, the certified diver trip is more suitable if you already have certification, want to explore more extensive underwater features, and don’t mind spending four hours in the water.
Practical considerations include your fitness level, how much time you want to dedicate to diving, and your budget. If you’re unsure, starting with the beginner experience is always a good way to see if you want to pursue further diving in Terceira.
To sum it up, Terceira offers a range of scuba diving options that cater to different interests and skill levels. The shipwreck exploration is ideal for beginners or those looking for a quick adventure, while the certified double dive appeals to experienced divers seeking a more comprehensive experience with historical and marine highlights. Both tours provide excellent value and memorable underwater moments—just be sure to book early, especially in peak season.
For a safe, educational, and exciting introduction to the underwater world of the Azores, the Third Island: Try Scuba in a Shipwreck-Archaeological Park is our top pick. But if you’re ready for more diving and have your certification, the longer, more detailed double dive trip is hard to beat. Either way, Terceira’s waters promise unforgettable experiences for all underwater enthusiasts.
