Please plan a minimum stay of 4 nights on Pico.

All our ocean excursions depend strongly on wind, waves, visibility and general sea conditions. Having several days available gives us the flexibility to choose the best possible day for the tour. The exact route and snorkeling location may therefore be adjusted according to the conditions on the day.

If conditions around the planned snorkeling location are unsuitable, we reserve the right to select the best safe alternative snorkeling site available during the excursion.

If the excursion cannot take place at all because of weather or sea conditions, we will offer an alternative date whenever possible.

As all wildlife encounters take place in the animals' natural environment, sightings of dolphins, turtles, seabirds or other marine animals can never be guaranteed.

We depart from Madalena harbour on Pico and head directly across the channel towards the northwestern tip of São Jorge. During the crossing, keep your eyes on the water. Dolphins are frequently encountered in the waters between the islands, and they may sometimes approach the boat and bow-ride alongside our catamaran.

Ponta dos Rosais

Ponta dos Rosais forms the wild northwestern end of São Jorge, with spectacular cliffs rising more than 200 metres above the Atlantic. High above the sea stands the historic Rosais Lighthouse, inaugurated in 1958 and at the time considered one of the most technologically advanced lighthouses in Portugal. The lighthouse community was temporarily evacuated during the 1964 Rosais seismic crisis and nearby submarine eruption. It was later severely affected by the powerful 1980 earthquake, which caused cliff collapses and led to the permanent evacuation of the lighthouse station.

Today, Ponta dos Rosais is part of a protected natural landscape and an important nesting area for seabirds. We take our time around the cape for sightseeing and photography before continuing along the coastline.

Snorkeling along São Jorge

Depending on wind, waves and sea conditions, our crew will select a calm and suitable snorkeling location along the coast. After a safety briefing, you enter the water together with your snorkeling guide and explore the volcanic underwater landscape of São Jorge. Full snorkeling equipment is included.

Stop in Velas

We then continue to the harbour of Velas, the main town of São Jorge, where you have approximately one hour ashore to explore at your own pace. Take a short walk through the historic centre, visit the church, enjoy a coffee or snack in one of the local cafés, or simply relax and experience the atmosphere of this traditional Azorean village.

Return to Pico

After our stop in Velas, we board the catamaran again and begin our journey back towards Pico. Whenever conditions allow, we follow sections of the Pico coastline for additional sightseeing before crossing back towards Madalena. During the journey we continue looking for seabirds and turtles. Out here in the open Atlantic, you never know what may appear.