Terceira Island:Try Scuba in a Shipwreck-Archeological park

If you’re visiting Terceira Island in the Azores and looking for a unique way to dip your toes into the underwater world, this Try-Scuba experience at the Angra do Heroísmo Bay Underwater Archaeological Park might just be what you’re after. While I haven’t personally tried it, the reviews and information paint a pretty compelling picture of an accessible, safe, and memorable introduction to scuba diving—especially if you’re curious but unsure about jumping straight into certification courses.

What stands out about this tour? First, the guides seem to be a highlight, offering thorough explanations and making sure everyone feels confident. Second, the shipwreck environment is pretty special—diving among historic wreckage that’s part of an archaeological park gives the experience a sense of discovery and connection to history. That said, it’s also worth noting that it’s not a full day’s adventure—at around 2 hours total—and it’s designed for beginners, which means it’s quite manageable for most people.

One potential consideration? The depth limit is 8 meters, so if you’re dreaming of deep-sea adventures, this is more of an introduction and won’t satisfy those craving more advanced dives. Also, it’s not suitable for children under 8 or pregnant women, which is pretty standard for beginner diving experiences. Overall, if you’re interested in trying scuba in a safe, guided environment, this tour could be a fantastic fit—especially if you’re eager to see Azorean marine life and historic wrecks up close.

This experience best suits travelers who want a straightforward, well-supported first step into scuba, those fascinated by archaeology, or anyone seeking an unforgettable, beginner-friendly adventure in the Azores. Keep in mind, it’s not a full certification course, but it’s a rewarding taste of what underwater exploration is all about.

Key Points

• Accessible for beginners with a clear introduction to diving basics.
• Supervised environment ensures safety and confidence, ideal for first-timers.
• Historic shipwreck offers a fascinating underwater backdrop, combining marine life with archaeology.
• Small groups (limited to 10 participants) provide personalized guidance.
• Duration is about 2 hours, making it a manageable excursion in your travel schedule.
• Cost includes instruction, equipment, insurance, and a certificate—good value for a beginner experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What You Can Expect from the Tour

Begin your adventure at the Scubazores Divers shop, where you’ll meet your instructor and get briefed on what’s ahead. The first part of the program involves about 120 minutes of learning—covering how to use the equipment, basic safety signals, breathing techniques, and movement underwater. Even if you’ve never snorkeled before, this is designed to be straightforward and supportive, with instructors guiding every step.

Once you’re comfortable with the basics, you’ll head out to the Underwater Archaeological Park of Angra do Heroísmo Bay. Located right in the bay, this protected area features the wreckage of the Lidador ship, which has become a habitat teeming with local marine life. The maximum depth of 8 meters means the dive is gentle and suitable for newcomers, and you’ll have about 30 minutes underwater to explore the wreck and the surrounding reefs.

Many reviewers highlight the professionalism of the guides—Zeferino is mentioned as a welcoming and thorough guide who made everyone feel safe and well-informed. The reviews also note that the marine environment here is lively, with an array of fish typical of the Azores, adding to the visual appeal.

What Makes This Experience Special

The shipwreck itself offers an intriguing glimpse into maritime history, and diving around it feels like uncovering a hidden treasure. The fact that this is part of an archaeological park adds a layer of significance—you’re not just looking at a wreck, but experiencing a site protected for its cultural value.

The guided instruction means you’re in good hands, especially for those nervous about trying a first dive. Many reviews express satisfaction with how safe and supported they felt, with one saying, “Zeferino was super nice and I felt kept in good hands.” It’s clear that safety and trust are priorities here, which is crucial for a new diver.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This activity is perfect if you’re curious about getting your first taste of scuba diving without diving into a full certification. It’s also ideal for history buffs who want to see a shipwreck in a protected environment. If you enjoy marine life, this is a great chance to see local fish and reefs up close, all under professional supervision.

However, it’s not for children under 8 or pregnant women, which is worth considering if you’re traveling with family members who might not be eligible. Also, since the experience is limited to a single 30-minute underwater session, those looking for a more extensive dive excursion might want to consider other options.

The Practical Details

The cost covers everything you need—an instructor, equipment rental, insurance, and a certificate confirming your try-scuba experience. It’s a good value considering the safety measures and the memorable environment. Food and drinks are not included, so plan for a snack afterward.

The activity starts at the Scubazores Divers shop and ends back there, making logistics straightforward. It’s a small-group experience—limited to 10 participants—which helps ensure personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

Timing-wise, it’s a single-day activity, so you can easily work it into a broader itinerary of Azorean adventures. The availability and start times vary, so it’s best to check in advance.

Real-World Experiences and Feedback

From reviews, it’s clear that the guides are a big part of what makes this experience shine. One reviewer called the guide “welcoming, thorough in explanations, and made us feel really safe,” which is exactly what you want for your first water adventure.

Another shared that “it was my first time diving and I really enjoyed it,” emphasizing how well the instructor kept everyone in good hands. The marine environment and shipwreck scenery seem to leave a lasting impression—many describe their experience as “amazing” and highly recommend it.

If you’re after a first-time scuba adventure that balances safety, education, and a touch of history, this tour ticks many boxes. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a guided, small-group experience that isn’t overly complicated or time-consuming. The underwater environment at Angra do Heroísmo Bay provides a lovely setting to see marine life and explore a piece of maritime history without the need for advanced skills.

While it’s not a full certification or an extended dive trip, it’s a wonderful way to test the waters and see if underwater exploration might become a future hobby. Plus, the presence of knowledgeable guides and a controlled environment make it appealing even for those a bit hesitant about diving.

For travelers with a sense of curiosity, a love of history, or simply the desire to try something new in the Azores, this experience offers a memorable and safe introduction to the underwater world.

Is this experience suitable for complete beginners?
Absolutely. It’s designed specifically for first-timers, with a thorough briefing and supervised environment, making it accessible even if you’ve never tried scuba before.

How deep do we go during the dive?
The maximum depth is 8 meters, which is shallow enough for beginners and provides plenty of opportunity to see the wreck and marine life comfortably.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, beachwear, and if you have young children, a child safety seat. The tour provides all necessary equipment, so you don’t need to worry about that.

Is this activity safe for people who are nervous about water?
With professional instructors guiding you and safety being a priority, most participants feel reassured and enjoy the experience, even if they’re initially unsure.

How long does the activity last?
It’s approximately 2 hours total—about 120 minutes of instruction plus the dive. The underwater portion lasts around 30 minutes.

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

This Try-Scuba experience offers a friendly, safe, and one-of-a-kind way to connect with the Azores’ maritime history and vibrant underwater life. Whether you’re looking for a gentle introduction to diving or just want to tick the underwater shipwreck off your bucket list, it’s worth considering for your Terceira adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: