Terceira Azores: Scuba-Double dive Trip(certified Divers)

REVIEW · TERCEIRA

Terceira Azores: Scuba-Double dive Trip(certified Divers)

  • 5.07 reviews
  • 4 hours (approx.)
  • From $132.17
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Operated by Scubazores divers · Bookable on Viator

Traveller rating 5.0 (7)Duration4 hours (approx.)Price from$132.17Operated byScubazores diversBook viaViator

Small-group scuba in Terceira beats box-checking anywhere else. I love the safety-first planning and equipment check before you go underwater, and I love that the team keeps things guide-led with a calm, structured rhythm for two sessions. One possible drawback: it relies on good weather, so you might need a date change if the sea is rough.

This is a 4-hour, two-session outing based in Angra do Heroísmo (Terceira). You meet at Scubazores Divers (Marina Store), and you’ll be in a small group (maximum 10), with insurance and a guide included—plus English support. The crew’s approach gets a lot of praise in particular for being attentive and precise, including staff such as Zeferino (DM), Ana, and André.

Key Things I’d Book This For

  • A real pre-session plan: you’ll go over sites, goals, underwater conditions, and safety before anyone jumps in.
  • Top-notch attention to gear: setup help, plus care like keeping and drying equipment afterward.
  • Two different underwater sessions: you get variety instead of one long, repetitive stop.
  • Terceira options that can be memorable: the Lidador wreck is a known target, and Goat Is can come with a choppy ride to match.
  • Small group energy (max 10): easier communication, more personal coaching.
  • Possible dolphin luck: there are reports of dolphin sightings on an outing.

Terceira’s Two-Session Plan: Why This Format Works

Terceira Azores: Scuba-Double dive Trip(certified Divers) - Terceira’s Two-Session Plan: Why This Format Works
Terceira is one of those places where the underwater world can shift with the day. That’s why I like this setup: you get two guided underwater sessions, with a surface break in between. You’re not rushing from one spot to the next without context, and the break gives you time to reset mentally and physically.

The tour also fits how certified divers typically want to travel. You don’t show up and guess what happens next. Instead, you get a planning session, an equipment briefing, and staff supervision for both underwater times. That matters when you’re dealing with currents, swell, and visibility changes that can happen quickly around the Azores.

The “max 10 travelers” size is a quiet win, too. Bigger groups can mean less individual attention, especially if someone needs an extra check before going down. Here, you’re more likely to get the kind of coaching that helps you feel confident.

You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Terceira.

Start at Scubazores Divers: Where the Day Begins

Terceira Azores: Scuba-Double dive Trip(certified Divers) - Start at Scubazores Divers: Where the Day Begins
Your morning (or afternoon, depending on schedule) starts at Scubazores Divers at the Marina Store in Angra do Heroísmo. It’s a straightforward meet point—easy enough that you’re not burning time hunting for the operation.

If you’re the type who likes to be early and relaxed, this is a good sign. A clear start usually makes the pre-session planning easier to run properly. You’ll receive a confirmation at booking time, and you’ll use a mobile ticket.

Also, the format is flexible enough for real people. Service animals are allowed, and the operator notes that most people can participate. That’s useful when you’re traveling with a companion who may not want to sit on land the whole time.

Before You Go Under: The Planning and Gear Briefing

Terceira Azores: Scuba-Double dive Trip(certified Divers) - Before You Go Under: The Planning and Gear Briefing
One of the biggest differences between a smooth trip and a stressful one is what happens before the boat leaves. On this outing, you’ll get a planning session first. The instructors and guides talk through the selected underwater sites, what conditions to expect, what the goals are, and any safety considerations.

You’ll also get a detailed equipment briefing. That doesn’t just mean a quick look at your gear. It’s the kind of briefing that helps you confirm you’re comfortable with how things are set up and how safety procedures will be handled. If you’re traveling with your own kit, this still helps you check your setup and expectations.

This is the part I’d pay attention to as a diver. When the crew explains what they’re aiming for—terrain, wildlife chances, or whether visibility/currents might affect the route—you spend more underwater time actually seeing things and less time working out logistics on the fly.

First Underwater Session: Spot Choice and What You’ll See

After the planning, you’ll head out for your first underwater session at one of the best spots around Terceira. The exact location can vary, but the idea stays the same: you explore underwater formations, colorful marine life, and the natural terrain that makes this island’s coast interesting.

A key point here is that staff are present and supervising. That means you’re not left to fend for yourself, even if you’re certified. You still get guidance, and you can focus on buoyancy, scanning, and enjoying the underwater environment.

In past outings, the Lidador wreck has been a popular target. If that’s on your day’s plan, you’ll likely spend time inspecting the structure and watching how fish behave around it. Wrecks can be great, but they also call for good discipline—so it’s reassuring that the crew runs the session with supervision and defined goals.

Surface Break: Rest, Talk Observations, Adjust

Between the two underwater sessions, there’s a surface interval for rest. This part is more important than many people think. After time underwater, you’ll want a reset: drink water, breathe normally, and warm up a bit if the wind has been cutting.

It’s also when you can discuss what you noticed and make any necessary adjustments. That might be something practical (your comfort level, your breathing rhythm, your gear behavior) or just confirming how the site felt. For many certified divers, this surface break can be the difference between feeling “tight” for the second session or feeling relaxed and ready.

I like that the trip is structured enough to include this pause. It gives you a chance to learn from the first stop before the second one.

Second Underwater Session: Variety Comes From Different Targets

The second underwater session is planned at a different location to add variety. That’s where your day can feel like a real sampler platter instead of repeating the same conditions twice.

Depending on the day, the second site can include options like exploring wrecks, swimming near schools of fish, or taking in the unique underwater topography around Terceira. The goal is to let you see different styles of underwater terrain—rocky structure in one place, a wreck or fish activity in another.

Goat Is is another known option mentioned for this style of outing. Expect that getting there can involve a short ride by RIB, and one example mentioned a choppy 20-minute ride. If you’re sensitive to motion, bring a calm mindset—and focus on your breathing during the boat trip.

Crew and Coaching: Zeferino, Ana, and André

A lot of scuba experiences live or die by the crew. Here, the names that show up in people’s stories help you understand the tone: Zeferino is mentioned as a DM, Ana gets credited for passionate presentation, and André (described as the owner of Enterprise) is praised as attentive and fun.

What I take from those comments is not just friendliness. It’s competence with communication. Good staff don’t only point you where to go. They also help you feel set up to succeed—especially during a first trip in a new place.

There’s also praise for how the team handles equipment. You might even find them helping keep and dry your gear so you’re not stuck dealing with damp kit on the way out. That’s one of those small details that makes the trip feel properly managed.

Boat Time and Motion: A Practical Heads-Up

You’ll travel by boat between sites. The exact ride length can vary, but at least one known option includes a 20-minute RIB crossing that can get choppy. That’s not a deal-break, but it is real life.

If you’re prone to seasickness, you might want to plan ahead with the usual tools (meds if you use them, and bring water). The calmer you feel before you go underwater, the smoother your breathing and buoyancy tends to be after.

Also, since the trip runs in weather-dependent conditions, you should be mentally flexible. If conditions are poor, the operator may offer a different date or a full refund. That’s the fair way to handle it rather than pretending the sea will behave.

Price and Value: Is $132.17 a Good Deal?

At $132.17 per person for an approx. 4-hour, two-session scuba outing, this is priced like a serious guided experience—not a budget “just show up” activity.

Here’s why the value can make sense:

  • Insurance is included, which removes one worry.
  • A guide is included, and the experience is structured with planning, briefing, supervision, and a surface interval.
  • You’re getting two separate underwater sessions, not just one long block.

What’s not included matters too: lunch and snacks aren’t included, and towel/swimwear aren’t included. That means your real cost might be a bit higher once you add food and a few comfort items.

Still, for a four-hour outing with professional guidance and two underwater sessions, the price looks reasonable—especially if you compare it to the cost of renting gear, paying for a guide, and adding insurance separately elsewhere.

What to Bring (So You Don’t Get Stuck on Land)

The trip doesn’t include lunch, snacks, towel, or swimwear. I’d treat that as your cue to show up prepared.

At minimum, bring:

  • A towel and swimwear you’re comfortable using
  • Food planning for before/after (since lunch/snacks aren’t provided)
  • Anything you need for sun/sea spray comfort (the Azores can be breezy even when it’s pleasant)

Also, if you’re relying on your own equipment, make sure it’s ready for a proper day out—especially if the crew will still want to verify setup during the equipment briefing. Being prepared helps you get down faster and feel more confident during your underwater time.

Who This Trip Fits Best

This is listed for certified divers, and the structure supports that. You’ll benefit if you already know how to handle buoyancy, buoyancy checks, and basic procedures in a supervised setting.

This outing also fits well if you want:

  • A small group experience (max 10)
  • Clear planning and coaching
  • Variety across two underwater sessions
  • A crew that pays attention to gear and safety rather than rushing you through

If you’re brand-new to scuba, the “certified divers” focus may mean you’ll need a different kind of course or introductory experience. But if you’re comfortable under the surface and want a guided day in Terceira, this is a strong match.

Should You Book Scubazores’ Double Underwater Sessions in Terceira?

I’d book it if you want a well-run, safety-minded day with two underwater sessions and a small group feel. The planning and equipment briefing are exactly what I look for when I’m in a new region. Add in the possibility of sites like the Lidador wreck and the chance of dolphin sightings, and the odds of getting more than a basic outing go up.

I’d think twice only if you’re very sensitive to boat motion or you don’t have flexibility with dates. The sea matters here, and weather can shift the plan. But if you can roll with that, this looks like a practical, professional way to spend your time in Terceira.

FAQ

How long is the double underwater trip?

It runs for about 4 hours.

Where do I meet the operator?

You meet at Scubazores Divers (Marina Store), at the Marina de address in Angra do Heroísmo, Portugal.

What is the price per person?

The listed price is $132.17 per person.

What’s included in the tour price?

Insurance and a guide are included.

What’s not included?

Lunch, snacks, towel, and swimwear are not included.

Is it offered in English?

Yes, it’s offered in English.

How many people are in the group?

The tour has a maximum of 10 travelers.

FAQ

Do I get confirmation after booking?

You’ll receive confirmation at the time of booking.

Are service animals allowed?

Yes, service animals are allowed.

Is the trip dependent on weather?

Yes, it requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can most people participate?

The operator states that most travelers can participate.

Is there an insurance component?

Insurance is included with the experience.

Will the activity end back at the meeting point?

Yes, the activity ends back at the meeting point.

Can I cancel for a full refund?

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

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