Exploring São Jorge’s Hidden Underwater Treasures: A Snorkeling Boat Tour Review
If you’re looking to add a splash of adventure to your Azores trip, the Caves Snorkel Tour by boat promises a memorable experience. This tour offers a unique glimpse into São Jorge Island’s vibrant marine life and volcanic seabeds, all guided by a local expert. Whether you’re new to snorkeling or a seasoned swimmer, this trip caters to all skill levels while providing a versatile mix of coastal exploration and underwater discovery.
What makes this tour stand out? We love the chance to see the shipwreck remains of the “Iriskay”, explore volcanic caves, and enjoy stunning views of the island from the water. The small group size (limited to four participants) ensures an intimate experience, and the flexible options for either land or boat snorkeling add a layer of convenience. Plus, with the local-certified guide, you’re in knowledgeable hands.
However, potential travelers should consider the physical demands of the land-based snorkeling, which involves swimming approximately 150 meters from the port with wetsuits. For some, this might be a bit more strenuous than the boat option. Nonetheless, this tour suits anyone eager to combine marine exploration with scenic island views, from beginners to experienced snorkelers.
Good To Know
- Diverse Experience: Combines boat trip, snorkeling, and cave exploration for a well-rounded adventure.
- Accessible for All Skill Levels: Snorkeling is simple and safe, with options for land or boat-based activity.
- Unique Marine Encounters: See the shipwreck of “Iriskay” and vibrant marine life in crystal-clear waters.
- Small Group Experience: Limited to four participants, ensuring personalized attention.
- Flexible Options: Choose between land-based snorkeling or a scenic boat cruise.
- Good Value: At $142, this includes transportation, equipment, and guided insights—worth considering for a full-day mini adventure.
An In-Depth Look at the Caves Snorkel Tour by boat
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What to Expect from the Tour
This three-hour tour offers a chance to explore São Jorge’s underwater world in a relaxed, engaging manner. The experience begins with pickup from your hotel, Velas, or the local airport. From there, you’ll hop into a van for a brief five-minute transfer to the port of Manadas. Here, depending on your choice, you’ll either start your snorkeling adventure directly from the shore or set sail on a boat trip.
The boat cruise itself is a highlight. Passing through Queimada and Urzelina, you’ll witness spectacular island vistas—think volcanic slopes, dramatic cliffs, and volcanic cavities. The boat trip lasts approximately 1.5 hours, during which you can enjoy the stunning scenery, spot marine life, and even stop to snorkel inside volcanic caves, known locally as caves or cavities. The boat is equipped for a comfortable ride, and with a certified guide on board, you’ll learn about the island’s geology and marine ecosystem.
Discovering the Shipwreck of “Iriskay”
One of the most captivating parts of this tour is the visit to Baía do Negro in Manadas, where you can see remnants of the “Iriskay”, an English ship that sank in 1945. The shipwreck sits at a shallow depth of 2-3 meters, making it accessible for snorkelers. According to reviews, the site offers a fascinating glimpse into the island’s maritime history, with scattered pieces and a few structural remains still visible amidst the sand and rocks.
Guests have noted that the wreck is well-cleaned by locals, allowing for a safe and visually interesting exploration. The proximity to the coast makes it an ideal snorkeling spot—no need for deep dives or advanced skills—just a mask, fins, and a sense of curiosity.
Snorkeling in Volcanic Caves
Another sought-after experience involves snorkeling inside volcanic cavities or caves. After the boat stops, you’ll have the chance to float inside these unique geological formations, which are both beautiful and intriguing. The caves’ walls are often adorned with volcanic textures, and the calm, shallow waters inside make for an accessible and peaceful experience.
Passengers have mentioned how peaceful it feels to float inside these caves, surrounded by the silence of the underwater volcanic formations. This adds an adventurous yet safe element to the tour, especially appreciated by those who love geology and underwater landscapes.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyThe Land Option: Snorkeling from Shore
For those who prefer to stay on land, the snorkeling portion takes place at Baía do Negro, with approximately 150 meters of swimming from the port of Manadas. The wetsuits are provided, which are a plus in cooler Atlantic waters, but be prepared for a bit of swimming effort. Reviewers note that this option is more demanding physically but offers a closer look at the wreck and marine environment.
The Boat Trip Details
The boat trip, lasting around 3 hours, is more than just transportation. It’s an opportunity to enjoy panoramic views of São Jorge, observe volcanic formations from a different perspective, and visit caves that are only accessible by boat. Passengers often comment on the dramatic scenery, with volcanic slopes and rugged coastlines creating a stunning backdrop.
What’s Included and What You Should Bring
The tour package covers all essentials—transfers, snorkeling masks and fins, wetsuits for the land option, boat trip, and insurance. You’ll want to bring your own swimwear, towel, sunscreen, water, snacks, and perhaps a waterproof camera. Since touching marine life is not allowed, you’ll need to be gentle and respectful of the fragile ecosystem.
The Itinerary Breakdown
The tour includes several key stops:
- Pickup at hotel or airport: For convenience and to start the experience relaxed.
- Transfer to Manadas: A short 5-minute drive, setting the stage for your adventure.
- Boat cruise around São Jorge: Pass through volcanic landscapes, see caves, and enjoy island vistas.
- Snorkeling at Baía do Negro: Visit the shipwreck and float inside volcanic caves.
- Additional snorkeling in São Jorge’s waters: An extension for those wanting more underwater exploration.
- Drop-off back at starting points: Wrapping up your mini island adventure.
Each stage is designed to maximize scenic beauty and underwater discovery without feeling rushed.
Authentic Insights from Reviewers
Many guests appreciated the small group setting for its intimacy and personalized guidance, with some describing the guide, Jaime, as both knowledgeable and accommodating. One reviewer mentioned, “The guide was fantastic—really knew his stuff and made us feel safe and comfortable.”
Others highlighted the ease of snorkeling, saying, “It’s perfect for beginners; the waters are calm and shallow, so I felt totally at ease.” The accessibility of the shipwreck and caves was frequently praised, with comments like, “Seeing the wreck was like stepping back in time, and floating inside the caves was surreal.”
A few noted that the land-based snorkeling requires some swimming effort but added that wetsuits helped keep warm. The boat trip’s scenic views and volcanic formations made the experience even more memorable.
Price and Value
At $142 per person, this tour packs in a lot—transportation, equipment, guided explanations, the boat cruise, and the unique sights of the shipwreck and volcanic caves. When considering the cost of similar experiences in other destinations, this is quite reasonable for the exclusive nature of the small group, guided approach, and diverse activities.
Compared to other multi-hour excursions, the mix of land and sea exploration makes it a solid value for travelers keen on underwater adventures, scenic views, and cultural sites like the shipwreck.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This snorkeling and boat trip is ideal for adventurous travelers who love marine life, geology, or scenic island landscapes. It’s perfect for those who want a flexible experience—whether they prefer snorkeling from land or cruising by boat. Because it accommodates all skill levels and provides equipment, beginners will find it accessible, while seasoned snorkelers can appreciate the marine highlights.
Those interested in a small, personalized group experience will value the limited participant count, ensuring more attention from guides. It’s also suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a relaxed but engaging activity in São Jorge.
FAQs
Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is accessible for all skill levels, children should be comfortable swimming and willing to snorkel in shallow waters. The small group size and guided nature make it family-friendly, but parents should assess their child’s comfort and swimming ability.
Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
No, all snorkeling masks, fins, and wetsuits are included in the tour price. However, bringing your own mask if you prefer a custom fit is always an option.
Can I choose between land or boat snorkeling?
Yes, you can opt for either the land-based snorkeling, which involves swimming from the port, or a scenic boat trip with guided snorkeling stops.
How long does the boat trip last?
The boat journey itself lasts approximately 3 hours, including scenic passages, cave visits, and snorkeling stops.
Is the shipwreck of “Iriskay” safe to explore?
The wreck is at a shallow depth of 2-3 meters and is cleaned and maintained by locals, making it safe for snorkelers to see and photograph.
What should I bring with me?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, water, snacks, and a waterproof camera if desired. A wetsuit is provided if you opt for land snorkeling.
Is there any food or drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring your own snacks and water.
What is the group size?
The experience is limited to 4 participants, ensuring a more personalized and relaxed atmosphere.
How do I book this experience?
You can reserve your spot with flexible payment options—pay later or cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
To sum it up, the Caves Snorkel Tour by boat offers a well-rounded and engaging way to explore São Jorge’s underwater and coastal scenery. It balances scenic boat rides, shallow snorkeling, and geological wonders, making it suitable for adventure-minded travelers of all levels. With its small group setting and expert guidance, it’s a thoughtful choice for those wanting an authentic, memorable Azores experience that goes beyond typical sightseeing.
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