If you’re looking to get a real taste of Flores Island beyond its famed lush landscapes, this boat tour offers an excellent way to see the best of the south coast. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, reviews, detailed descriptions, and firsthand accounts paint a vivid picture of what you can expect from this adventure.
What sets this experience apart are its focus on exploring caves, crystal-clear snorkeling waters, and discovering the historic bay of Ribeira da Cruz. Plus, the small-group boat tour promises an intimate, engaging day on the water. The slight caveat? If you’re not comfortable swimming or have mobility restrictions, this might not be ideal. But for anyone craving authentic maritime exploration and nature’s underwater colors, it’s a winner.
This tour is perfect for travelers who love outdoor adventures, want a balanced mix of culture and nature, and are eager to see Flores from a unique perspective. It offers genuine access to parts of the island that are often hard to reach on foot. Now, let’s get into what makes this experience so special — and why it might be just what your Azores itinerary needs.
Key Points
- Authentic exploration of the south coast including caves, coves, and the historic bay of Ribeira da Cruz
- Snorkeling in pristine waters with vibrant marine life and stunning underwater visuals
- Small-group boat tour ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere
- Includes snorkeling gear but not fins or food, so plan ahead
- Comfortable for swimmers, but not suitable for those with mobility issues or claustrophobia
- Flexible booking options with the ability to reserve now and pay later
An Overview of the Experience
This tour offers a fantastic way to see Flores from the water, combining cultural sites with natural beauty. From the moment you step aboard the white boat at Porto das Poças, you’ll notice how well-organized and friendly the crew is, led by guides who know the island well. The tour’s duration is typically designed to maximize sightseeing and snorkeling without feeling rushed—usually a full morning or early afternoon.
Starting at Porto das Poças, the boat heads south to the bay of Ribeira da Cruz, the first settlement on the island. Here, you get an immediate sense of history, seeing how early explorers and pirates once sheltered in these waters. The guides, who speak multiple languages including Portuguese, English, Spanish, and French, are eager to share insights into local history and geography.
Looking for more options in Santa Cruz Das Flores? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Exploring Ribeira da Cruz — A Historic Treasure
The bay of Ribeira da Cruz is more than just a scenic spot; it’s a tangible link to Flores’s past. While on the boat, you’ll learn how the first settlers made use of these calm waters and natural caves for shelter. This area remains relatively untouched, offering peaceful views and a chance to appreciate how early inhabitants relied heavily on the sea.
Many reviewers remark on how knowledgeable and friendly the guides are. One traveler noted, “Super matiné, léquipe connais très bien lîle. Cétait magnifique,” highlighting the guides’ local expertise and the overall stunning setting. This part of the tour provides a relaxed atmosphere to take photos and absorb the quiet beauty of the coast.
Cave and Cove Exploration — A Hidden World
After exploring the bay, your boat will navigate toward caves and coves along the coast. These geological formations are especially fascinating because they served as hiding places for explorers and pirates over the centuries.
You’ll get close enough for fantastic photo opportunities and a tangible sense of adventure. The caves vary in size and shape, and some may include small openings perfect for peering inside or even venturing a little further if conditions allow. The guides’ local knowledge enhances the experience, helping you understand the significance of each formation.
Tip: The boat tour is an excellent opportunity to see how Flores’s geology has shaped its history and how natural formations continue to influence local life.
Snorkeling in Crystal-Clear Waters
One of the highlights is undoubtedly the snorkeling experience. The waters here are renowned for their clarity and vibrant marine biodiversity. Equipped with a provided mask and breathing tube, you’ll have the chance to see colorful fish, sea anemones, and perhaps even curious octopuses darting around the rocky seabed.
Since fins are not included, if you’re a serious snorkeler or prefer more efficient movement, bringing your own fins is recommended. The waters tend to be calm, making it accessible even for less experienced swimmers. As one satisfied traveler expressed, “Experience in the water was beautiful — the colors and marine life are unforgettable.”
The duration of snorkeling is usually tailored to the group but generally offers enough time to enjoy the underwater landscape fully. Keep in mind, the water temperature is typical for the Azores—refreshing but not uncomfortably cold.
More Great Tours NearbyPractical Aspects of the Tour
Transportation: The tour departs from Porto das Poças harbor, marked by a white boat and staff wearing Zagaia Flores t-shirts, which makes finding the meeting point straightforward. The tour ends back at the same spot, making logistics simple.
Duration: Expect approximately a half-day trip, balancing sightseeing, cave exploration, and snorkeling. This leaves plenty of time for other activities on Flores.
Group Size: The experience is designed for smaller groups, ensuring more personalized attention and a relaxed vibe. This makes it ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a more intimate adventure.
Price & Value: At $68 per person, the tour offers excellent value—covering boat transportation, guided commentary, cave exploration, and snorkeling gear. Considering the personalized experience and access to pristine locations, it’s a fair price for an authentic, immersive day.
Included & Not Included: The tour includes snorkeling masks and tubes but does not include fins or food. Remember to bring your own water, snacks if needed, and sunscreen.
Language Options: Guides speak multiple languages—Portuguese, English, Spanish, and French—making communication easy for international travelers.
Booking Flexibility: You can reserve your spot now and pay later, providing flexibility in planning your trip.
What Travelers Love (and What to Keep in Mind)
Reviewers have consistently praised this tour for its knowledgeable guides and breathtaking scenery. One reviewer remarked, “Super matiné, léquipe connais très bien lîle. Cétait magnifique,” emphasizing the guide’s expertise and the beauty of the experience.
However, some travelers note that the tour is not suitable for those with mobility impairments or claustrophobia, as exploring caves may involve tight spaces, and swimming in open water can be challenging for some.
What to Bring: Swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, waterproof camera. Because fins are not included, bringing your own fins can enhance your snorkeling experience.
Who Would Enjoy This Tour?
This experience is ideal for those who:
- Want to explore Flores’s natural beauty from a different perspective
- Enjoy snorkeling and aquatic adventures
- Appreciate learning about local history and geology
- Value small-group, personalized tours
- Are comfortable swimming in open water
It’s less suitable for travelers with mobility issues, non-swimmers, or those with claustrophobia or sensitivity to enclosed spaces.
Final Thoughts
This boat tour offers a thoughtful blend of cultural, geological, and aquatic experiences that reveal the best of Flores’s southern coast. The guides’ local expertise, combined with the pristine waters and hidden caves, make it a memorable addition for anyone seeking an authentic Azorean adventure.
At a reasonable price, it provides great value—especially for travelers who want to see the island’s marine life and historical sites without strenuous hikes or complicated logistics. Whether you want a peaceful morning exploring caves, a splash of snorkeling, or a bit of both, this trip is sure to satisfy.
For those who love discovering secret spots, learning about local history, and enjoying time on the water, this tour is a well-rounded, authentic choice. Just remember to bring your sense of adventure—and fins if you want to make the most of the underwater world.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
No, you should be comfortable swimming in open water, as snorkeling is a key part of the experience.
Are snorkeling fins included?
No, fins are not included but bringing your own is recommended for better mobility in the water.
How long does the tour last?
The trip typically lasts around half a day, providing plenty of time for sightseeing and snorkeling.
Where does the tour start and end?
It starts and ends at Porto das Poças harbor, marked by a white boat and Zagaia Flores staff.
Is the tour appropriate for families?
Yes, as long as children are comfortable swimming and are not claustrophobic, the tour can be suitable for families.
What languages are available for guides?
Guides speak Portuguese, English, Spanish, and French.
What should I bring?
Swimwear, towel, sunscreen, waterproof camera, and fins if you prefer.
Can I cancel booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Is food included?
No, food is not included, so bring snacks or a light meal if needed.
What makes this tour special?
Its combination of exploring historic caves, discovering the bay of Ribeira da Cruz, and snorkeling in crystal waters offers a well-rounded, authentic Flores experience.
This boat tour beautifully captures the essence of Flores—natural, historic, and full of surprises. It’s an adventure that’s bound to leave you with lasting memories of the Azores’ most enchanting coastlines.
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