Azores: Swimming with the Sharks

Getting up close with sharks in their natural habitat might sound daring, but for those curious about marine life and sustainable tourism, the Azores: Swimming with the Sharks tour offers a unique opportunity. While it’s not a typical tourist activity, it’s one that promises a blend of education, excitement, and conservation-focused experiences. We’ve gathered all the details to help you decide whether this adventure suits your travel style.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to swim alongside Blue Sharks and Hammerheads around Faial Island is rare and exhilarating. Secondly, it’s led by a marine biologist and shark specialist, Silvio Solleliet-Ferreira, who shares insightful knowledge about shark behavior and marine conservation. Lastly, the tour emphasizes small group sizes—maximizing both safety and intimacy with marine life.

A potential challenge? The activity is weather-dependent, meaning bad weather can cancel plans, so flexibility is key. This experience is best suited for adventurous travelers eager to learn and interact with wild sharks in a responsible way, without needing prior diving certification.

Key Points

• Educational and exciting: Learn about sharks from a marine biologist while swimming with them.
• Eco-conscious: The tour promotes sustainable marine tourism and protection efforts.
• Close encounters: Small groups ensure more personal interactions with sharks and marine life.
• All levels welcome: No previous experience needed, only a quick snorkeling refresher.
• Wildlife spotting: Expect to see seabirds, dolphins, turtles, and other marine creatures.
• Flexible options: Book now, pay later, and choose your preferred meeting point.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Close Look at the Azores Shark Experience

The Itinerary and How It Works

This tour is designed to offer a safe, educational, and memorable interaction with the ocean’s most misunderstood predators. It begins at the Horta Marina or Madalena Harbour, both picturesque starting points on Faial or Pico islands. You’ll meet your guide, Silvio, who’s not only a shark expert but also an engaging storyteller. He’ll brief you on shark behaviors, safety rules, and the importance of conservation, setting the tone for an informed adventure.

Before heading out on the boat, there’s an opportunity to try your gear—snorkel suits, masks, and fins—to ensure comfort and confidence in the water. If needed, a quick coastal check dive in a marine protected area refreshes your snorkel skills and helps you get familiar with your equipment. This part of the tour is crucial, especially since no prior experience is required; it’s all about feeling prepared.

Next, the boat ride (usually lasting 30 minutes to an hour) transports you to the designated shark-chumming spots. This part of the trip is when Silvio shares his vast knowledge about shark species, and you get to see the beautiful coastal scenery. Once at the site, the crew begins chumming — attracting sharks with bait. Watching the animals approach is both thrilling and educational, providing a rare chance to observe their natural behavior up close.

The swimming session lasts approximately 30 to 45 minutes, during which you’ll be supervised by Silvio and the crew. The small group setup (max 6 people) ensures safety and allows for closer interactions, making it easier to observe sharks without disturbing their environment. The encounter can last from 20 minutes to several hours, depending on the sharks’ interest and behavior that day.

Marine Life and Surroundings

While the main focus is the sharks, the tour often surprises guests with glimpses of seabirds, dolphins, and turtles along the way. Silvio’s commentary enriches the experience, fostering a deeper understanding of the local marine ecosystem. Expect to see vibrant coastal sea life during the check dives—colors and creatures that highlight the rich biodiversity of the Azores.

Food, Drinks, and Comfort

During the tour, small local snacks like soft cheese, traditional bread, and Malagueta peppers are served, alongside unlimited water and other drinks. After the swim, there’s plenty of time to relax, chat, and reflect on your experience. The snacks are simple but authentic, giving you a taste of local flavors amidst the marine adventure.

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Practical Details and Considerations

The tour is priced at $411 per person, which reflects its small-group focus, expert guidance, and eco-conscious approach. This might seem steep compared to typical snorkeling trips, but it includes all gear, snacks, drinks, and expert supervision—making the value clear for those keen on an authentic wildlife encounter.

The activity lasts between 3 to 5 hours, depending on how long sharks decide to show up. Keep in mind that the tour can be canceled if weather conditions are unsuitable, so flexibility and a backup plan might be wise.

Participants should bring essentials like a towel, hat, rain gear, biodegradable sunscreen, waterproof shoes, and sunglasses. Since alcohol and large luggage are not allowed, pack light and responsibly. The tour is not suitable for those over 70, wheelchair users, or anyone prone to seasickness.

Why Choose This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers who are comfortable in the water and eager to learn about shark behavior from a knowledgeable guide. It’s not a typical swim or snorkel trip; it’s specifically designed for those interested in sustainable marine tourism and meaningful wildlife encounters.

If you’re seeking a unique story to tell that combines education, conservation, and adrenaline, this tour hits all those marks. Plus, it offers a chance to see marine life in its natural environment—a rare privilege that few get to experience.

The Sum Up

Swimming with sharks in the Azores is an activity that balances thrill and education perfectly. With expert guidance from Silvio and a small-group approach, you’re set for an intimate, safe, and eco-friendly encounter. The tour provides a meaningful way to appreciate the ocean’s beauty while supporting conservation efforts.

This experience is best for adventurers, wildlife enthusiasts, and eco-conscious travelers who want to go beyond typical sightseeing. It’s suitable for those without prior snorkeling experience—thanks to the brief refresher—and offers an authentic connection with marine life.

While weather can be unpredictable, the overall value comes from the chance to witness sharks in their habitat with a knowledgeable guide and be part of sustainable tourism. If you’re looking for an unforgettable, educational, and responsible adventure, this tour is a standout choice in the Azores.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes small group sizes, a shark specialist guide, all necessary snorkeling equipment, local snacks like cheese and bread, unlimited water, and opportunities to spot marine life like dolphins and turtles.

Do I need prior experience to join?
No prior experience is required. Only a quick coastal check dive in a protected area to refresh your snorkeling skills is needed, making the tour accessible for beginners.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, water, hat, rain gear, biodegradable sunscreen, waterproof shoes, sunglasses, and snacks. Pack light and avoid large luggage or alcohol.

How long does the tour last?
The activity generally lasts between 3 and 5 hours, depending on shark behavior and weather conditions.

Can the tour be canceled?
Yes, if ocean weather conditions are poor, the activity will be canceled. It’s recommended to keep your plans flexible and book with the option to pay later.

Is this suitable for everyone?
Not suitable for people over 70, wheelchair users, or those prone to seasickness. It’s best suited for active, curious travelers comfortable in open water.

What if I want to book but am unsure about the weather?
You can reserve your spot and pay later, allowing you to plan flexibly around weather forecasts. Confirmations depend on a minimum of 3 participants.

This shark swimming tour in the Azores isn’t just about the adrenaline—it’s a chance to connect with marine life responsibly and gain a deeper respect for the ocean. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or eager newbie, the experience offers memories and knowledge that will last long after you leave the islands.

You can check availability for your dates here: