Going underwater for the first time should feel calm, not scary. On Terceira Island, SSI Try Scuba pairs real coaching with an underwater archaeological park visit around the Lidador wreck in Angra Bay.

I like that you get two stages: first learn breathing, gear use, and simple hand signals in confined water, then you move to a supervised spot with a max depth of 8m. The other standout for me is the setting: the wreckage, reefs, and fish all sit close enough for a beginner to enjoy without needing special experience.

One drawback to plan around: the experience doesn’t mention an underwater photo option, and at least one participant wished they could purchase or receive photos afterward.

Key takeaways before you go

• Two-part training: basics in calm, controlled water, then a short supervised underwater session (max 8m, about 30 minutes)
• Angra Bay shipwreck focus: the Lidador shipwreck and underwater archaeological park setting are part of the main event
• Professional, small-group support: limited to 10 participants, with instructors present throughout
• What you see: expect lots of Azores marine life, including fish and sightings like octopuses, rays, and sea urchins in real conditions
• Communication is taught: you learn basic underwater signals before you start the open-water part

Try Scuba basics in calm water (120 minutes of real instruction)

Your day starts at the Scubazores Divers shop, where you’ll get set up for SSI Try Scuba. The key here is that Try Scuba isn’t a pressure test. It’s a guided introduction meant to build comfort with the gear and with breathing underwater.

First comes the briefing and equipment familiarization. You’ll learn how to use the scuba kit for your first underwater experience, including the basics of breathing control and how to move without fighting the water. The goal is simple: get your bearings fast so you’re not spending your attention on the wrong problems.

Next is the confined-water portion (about 120 minutes total for the Try Scuba program). This is where you practice the steps you’ll rely on later: breathing steadily, adjusting your movement, and following your instructor’s guidance. You also learn basic communication signals so you can stay connected without talking.

The training also builds that signature scuba feeling: weightlessness. In the highlights, they promise the sensation of gravity dropping away, and that’s exactly what beginners often remember first. It’s not just a thrill. It’s also practical—if you learn how buoyancy feels early, the rest becomes easier.

Finally, you receive an SSI certificate as part of the program. Even if you’re only trying scuba once, that piece matters: it gives you a clear starting point if you later want to continue into an open water program.

Angra do Heroísmo Bay underwater archaeological park: Lidador wreck and lots of fish

After the basic training, you head to the underwater archaeological park of Angra do Heroísmo Bay. This is the main reason this experience stands out: you’re not just seeing sea life, you’re visiting an underwater setting tied to the Lidador shipwreck.

Your supervised underwater session stays beginner-friendly: maximum depth is 8m and time is about 30 minutes. That limit isn’t arbitrary. For a first-timer, shallower depth keeps breathing stress lower and makes it easier to focus on what the instructor is teaching.

Once you’re down, you’ll explore among the wreckage and surrounding reefs. The highlights describe levitating between fish and reefs, and you’ll likely feel that mid-water floating moment that makes scuba so different from snorkeling. In real use, this kind of “in-between” positioning can be the best way to enjoy the site—too close to the structure can feel busy, too far can feel empty. Here, the goal is to keep you where there’s plenty to look at.

And the marine life side is strong. Expect incredible fish from the Azores, and in hands-on feedback from this exact experience, I’ve seen mentions of octopuses, rays, and sea urchins. You’re also guided to the best spots by local instructors, so you’re not stuck drifting without purpose.

One more practical note: because this is an archaeological park setting, the experience is about watching and learning, not chasing underwater thrills. That’s a good fit for beginners who want wonder without risk-taking.

Small-group coaching: why the instructors are the real value

This is a small-group program, limited to 10 participants. That matters more than it sounds. When you’re learning a physical skill while your body adapts to breathing underwater, you want attention, not just a checklist.

In the feedback, people consistently mention feeling safe and supported, even on a first attempt. That usually comes from two things: a good briefing and instructors staying close while you practice the core steps.

It also helps that the instructors teach the communication system before you start the underwater part. One reviewer highlighted that the briefing was extensive on how signals work, and that they felt supported the whole time. That’s exactly the difference between a relaxed experience and one where you’re guessing.

You’ll likely hear Portuguese and English during instruction. The listing notes both languages, and that’s useful if you want to follow instructions precisely without translating in your head.

The names that show up in feedback are Zeferino and Diogo. People didn’t just call them professional; they described them as kind, helpful, and fun. That combo matters because Try Scuba is part learning, part mindset. If your instructor keeps things light while staying strict about safety, you’ll do better.

If you’re bringing kids, there’s at least one family who said their children were happy with the underwater experience. Just remember the official suitability rule: it isn’t for children under 8, and it isn’t for pregnant women.

What $129 really covers (and what you must plan for)

The price is $129 per person for a 1-day activity. On paper, that’s a simple number. In practice, value comes from what’s included.

Here’s what you get:

• Certified instructor-led training and initial briefing
• Insurance
• Equipment rental
• SSI certificate

That’s a lot of the stuff that often costs extra in other scuba offers: coaching time, insurance coverage, and gear rental can add up fast. In other words, you’re mostly paying for trained supervision plus the full learning sequence, not just a spot in the water.

What’s not included is food and drinks. So you’ll want to treat this like a full activity day. Eat beforehand if timing allows, or plan to buy something near where you’ll be before or after the program.

If you’re wondering whether this is “worth it” as a first step: if your goal is to build real confidence with equipment, breathing, and signals, this format is efficient. You get a certificate and a real taste of underwater life around a specific site, not a vague promise.

How the day flows: from gear lessons to an 8m max session

Timing and exact starting times can vary, since booking depends on availability. But the structure stays the same, and you can plan your expectations around it.

You meet at the Scubazores Divers shop, get briefed, and start with your Try Scuba training. Think of this as stage one: learn the tools and the underwater basics in controlled conditions.

Then stage two kicks in. You’ll be provided with the necessary equipment and taken to the underwater archaeological park location for the supervised session. This part is capped at 8m and about 30 minutes. That helps beginners because you’re not stuck underwater trying to finish the learning curve while also sightseeing.

After you finish, you’re dropped off back at the dive operator area. The schedule is designed so you don’t spend the whole day waiting around, which makes it a good match for short Azores stays.

What to bring (and what to wear so you feel comfortable)

Bring simple, practical items:

• Towel
• Beachwear
• Child safety seat

That child safety seat item is listed as something to bring, but the program itself isn’t suitable for children under 8. So if you’re traveling with kids who meet the age rule, plan for that extra item.

For clothing, think comfortable swim-ready layers. You’ll likely change into wet gear, get equipped, and spend time on the water before and after the underwater portion. Dry fast, warm up fast, and you’ll enjoy the day more.

Also keep a basic mindset in mind: you’re learning. If you feel awkward at first, that’s normal. The instruction and the small group setup are there to help you settle in.

Who this is best for on Terceira Island

This Try Scuba experience is built for first-timers and people who want a real introduction before taking the next step in scuba training.

You’ll likely be happiest if:

• You want to learn breathing and basic signals with a certified instructor
• You’re excited by marine life and want to see it close to a wreck site
• You prefer a guided experience with professionals nearby, not a do-it-yourself day

It’s also supported by feedback that describes the experience as suitable for someone with even a slight bit of athletic ability. You don’t need to be a sea athlete, but you do need to be willing to move, follow instructions, and stay calm.

It is not suitable for children under 8 and for pregnant women. If you fall into either category, skip this option and look for alternatives that match your needs.

The main drawback to know about: photos

One participant specifically mentioned wanting an underwater photo option as a souvenir. The experience details you provided don’t list any photo service, so if photos are a priority for you, you should ask the operator directly ahead of time whether they offer any way to purchase images from the session.

That’s not a deal-breaker for most first-timers. But for a lot of people, the wreck-and-fish moment is the memory you want to keep, so it’s smart to check.

Should you book this Try Scuba on Terceira?

I’d book it if you want a structured, beginner-first scuba introduction in one of the Azores’ most memorable settings. The biggest reasons are practical: you learn the basics, you get professional supervision, and you spend time at a real underwater archaeological site around the Lidador shipwreck—not just generic reef sightseeing.

Skip it only if photos are a must-have (since a photo option isn’t listed), or if the suitability rules apply to you. If you’re within the recommended age and comfort range, this is a strong value way to try scuba once and decide whether you want to continue.

If you want one simple rule for your decision: book when you’re ready to learn. This experience rewards calm attention, good listening, and a willingness to practice underwater basics before you focus on the scenery.

FAQ

How long is SSI Try Scuba?

The SSI Try Scuba program lasts approximately 120 minutes, with the first underwater session taking about 30 minutes at a maximum depth of 8m.

Where does the underwater experience take place?

You go to the Underwater Archaeological Park of Angra do Heroísmo Bay, around the shipwreck site (including the Lidador wreck).

What’s the maximum depth?

The first supervised underwater session is capped at a maximum depth of 8m.

Is equipment included?

Yes. Equipment rental is included as part of the experience.

Is there a certificate included?

Yes. You receive an SSI certificate as part of the program.

Do I need to bring anything?

Bring a towel and beachwear. A child safety seat is also listed as something to bring.

What isn’t included in the price?

Food and drinks are not included.

Is it suitable for kids and pregnant travelers?

It is not suitable for children under 8 years and not suitable for pregnant women.

Is cancellation free?

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