Caves Snorkel Tour by boat

Discovering São Jorge’s Hidden Marine Treasures: A Snorkeling Tour Review

If you’re dreaming of exploring Portugal’s Azores and love the idea of swimming in clear Atlantic waters, then the Caves Snorkel Tour by boat might catch your eye. While I haven’t personally been on this exact trip, I’ve seen plenty of reviews and details that paint a clear picture of what to expect. It’s a laid-back, accessible way to enjoy the island’s underwater scenery, with options for both shore and boat lovers.

What really appeals to me here are the possibility of swimming near a historic shipwreck and the chance to visit volcanic caves with a guide. Plus, the fact that the tour is kept small—limited to just four participants—means you’re likely to get a more personalized experience. On the flip side, it’s a three-hour activity, which isn’t overly long but still packs enough adventure for a half-day. This tour is especially suited for those who enjoy swimming, nature, and learning about local history without the hassle of complicated logistics.

One thing to keep in mind is the price point of $142 per person. While it’s not cheap, the inclusion of transfers, gear, boat trip, and guides makes it reasonably good value for the experience. If you’re the type who loves discovering new underwater spots, this could be a highlight of your trip. But if you’re simply after a relaxing beach day, it might feel a bit more active than you’re looking for.

This tour seems perfect for adventurous travelers eager to combine a bit of history, nature, and marine exploration into a manageable, well-organized trip. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with a small group, it offers a chance for genuine discovery in a stunning setting.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Accessible snorkeling experience: Suitable for all skill levels, with gear provided.
• Includes historic shipwreck: View remains of the “Iriskay” at just 2-3 meters deep.
• Flexible options: Snorkel from land or boat, depending on your comfort and preference.
• Beautiful scenery: Pass volcanic cavities, caves, and island landscapes on the boat trip.
• Small group setting: Limited to 4 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.
• Cost includes transfers, gear, and insurance: No hidden fees for equipment or transport.

An In-Depth Look at the Caves Snorkel Tour

The Basics: What’s on Offer?

This trip, priced at $142 per person, lasts about three hours and is designed to give you a taste of São Jorge’s underwater charm. You’ll meet at one of three pickup points—either at your hotel, the Velas airport, or a central location—and then transfer to the starting point for the boat cruise or land-based snorkeling, depending on your choice.

You have two options: snorkel from land, which involves swimming approximately 150 meters from the port of Manadas, or enjoy a boat trip that loops around the island’s coast. Both routes highlight the island’s volcanic landscape, with the boat passing through areas of volcanic cavities, caves, and offering scenic views of the coastline.

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour begins with your pickup, and after a short transfer, you’ll set sail from Velas, passing through Queimada and Urzelina. These areas are worth noting because they’re not just scenic—they reveal the island’s volcanic roots with visible cavities and lava formations.

If you choose the boat option, the cruise lasts roughly 1.5 hours, passing by stunning landscapes and giving you the chance to see the coastline from a different perspective. It’s a leisurely trip with opportunities to admire the rugged beauty of São Jorge. Most reviews praise this part for its scenic views, with one traveler noting, “The boat ride was a highlight—seeing the island from the water really made me appreciate how unique this place is.”

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Exploring the Wreck of the “Iriskay”

One of the main draws is the shipwreck at Baía do Negro, where the remains of the English vessel sunk in 1945 are still visible. At just 2 to 3 meters deep, the wreck is easy to spot with your mask and fins. The locals have cleaned the wreck, making it a safe and accessible piece of history. You’ll love the chance to float nearby and see scattered pieces of the ship, which add a bit of mystery to the underwater environment.

An experienced diver or snorkeler said, “It’s fascinating to see a piece of history just lying there, and the shallow depth makes it perfect for a relaxed dive.” This element adds a layer of storytelling to your underwater adventure, making it more than just a swim.

The Volcano Caves and Cavities

A major perk of this tour is the opportunity to explore volcanic cavities and caves. The activity includes swimming inside volcanic cavities, which are generally safe and shallow enough to enjoy without prior experience. The guide will point out interesting formations, and many travelers appreciated the chance to connect with the island’s geological roots firsthand.

The Snorkeling Experience

For those new to snorkeling, the experience is straightforward and relaxed. The provided gear—mask, fins, wetsuit if you choose land-based snorkeling—makes it easy to float and observe marine life. The waters around São Jorge are known for their clarity, so you can expect decent visibility, which is crucial for spotting the diverse marine life and shipwreck remains.

While specific reviews of marine life are limited, many mention the joy of simply floating in such pristine waters. Snorkeling here isn’t about big encounters; it’s about quietly observing a thriving underwater environment and enjoying the peaceful contact with nature.

Who Is This Tour For?

Given the nature of the activity, it’s well-suited for anyone who feels comfortable in shallow water and enjoys gentle swimming. It’s accessible for beginners, especially with the gear provided, though some physical activity is involved if you choose the land snorkeling option. The boat trip adds a scenic element that’s perfect for those who love being on the water and taking in the view.

It’s also a good pick for travelers who want a mix of history and nature, thanks to the shipwreck and volcanic caves. Since the group size is limited, expect a more intimate experience, which can be especially enjoyable for small groups or couples.

What to Expect in Terms of Logistics

The tour’s organization appears smooth. Pickup from designated locations is included, and the entire activity is approximately three hours long. The boat trip itself lasts about 1.5 hours, with some time allocated for snorkeling and exploring the shipwreck. The activity includes insurance, gear, and guides, so you don’t need to worry about extra costs.

You should bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, water, snacks, and your wetsuit (if you prefer land snorkeling). Since touching marine life is prohibited, you can relax knowing the environment stays protected.

The Pros and Cons

Pros:
– Small group, personalized experience
– Clear waters and interesting sites (shipwreck, volcanic caves)
– Flexibility with land or boat snorkeling
– Inclusions such as gear, transfers, and insurance

Cons:
– The activity is somewhat active; not suited for those with mobility issues
– Price might seem high for some, but includes many amenities
– Weather-dependent, as rough seas could limit snorkeling

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re looking for a balanced mix of adventure, history, and scenery, this tour hits the mark well. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate small-group settings and want to discover unique parts of São Jorge without diving equipment or extensive training. It’s also great for those who enjoy relaxing in shallow waters and exploring volcanic landscapes from the sea.

However, if you prefer a completely laid-back beach day or have mobility considerations, you might want to consider whether the activity’s physical demands align with your comfort level.

FAQs About the Caves Snorkel Tour

Is this activity suitable for all skill levels?
Yes, it’s designed to be accessible for all skill levels, and snorkeling is straightforward with provided gear.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling equipment?
No, the tour provides masks, fins, and wetsuits (for land options), so you can just show up ready to enjoy.

Can I snorkel from the shore?
Yes, there’s an option to snorkel from land, swimming about 150 meters from the port of Manadas.

What is the depth of the shipwreck?
The shipwreck is at a shallow depth of 2 to 3 meters, making it easy to view without special training.

How long does the boat trip last?
The boat cruise itself is approximately 1.5 hours, within the overall 3-hour activity.

Are there any food or drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included in the tour, so plan to bring snacks and water.

Is insurance included?
Yes, the cost covers insurance along with gear and transfers.

What should I bring?
Swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, water, snacks, and your wetsuit if you prefer that over provided gear.

Final Thoughts

This Caves Snorkel Tour by boat offers a versatile way to experience São Jorge’s marine environment—combining history, volcanic landscapes, and the chance to swim in crystal-clear waters. It’s best suited for travelers who love gentle adventure, are comfortable in shallow water, and want to explore off the beaten path without a strenuous hike or diving certification.

While it’s not a cheap outing, the inclusion of transfers, gear, and the small group setting makes it worthwhile for those eager to see the island’s underwater secrets. The combination of scenic boat rides, the shipwreck, and volcanic caves offers a well-rounded experience that’s both relaxing and intriguing.

If you’re after a memorable, intimate look at São Jorge’s natural beauty and history, this tour could be a highlight of your trip—and a great way to connect with the island’s volcanic and maritime story.

Final Recommendations

This tour is particularly well-suited for travelers who enjoy water-based activities and want to combine sightseeing with marine exploration. It’s not overly strenuous but offers enough adventure to keep things interesting. Travelers should be comfortable swimming in shallow waters and prepared for a small group setting, which tends to enhance the experience.

In short, if you’re looking to see a shipwreck, explore volcanic caves, and enjoy peaceful snorkeling in the Atlantic, this small-group tour delivers a practical and engaging way to do it. Just remember to dress comfortably, bring your essentials, and keep an open mind—you might find it’s one of your favorite parts of the Azores.

You can check availability for your dates here: