Vila Franca do Campo: Try Scuba Diving

If you’re dreaming of dipping your toes into the Atlantic’s waters and experiencing a splash of adventure without the need for certification, Vila Franca do Campo’s Try Scuba Diving offers an excellent opportunity. Priced at $125 per person, this 3-hour excursion in the Azores combines a brief boat ride, a classroom introduction, and a half-hour underwater exploration. Led by friendly, knowledgeable guides, the experience takes place in the Marine Reserve of Vila Franca do Campo islet—an area celebrated for its clear waters and plentiful marine life.

What makes this offering particularly appealing? First, the personalized attention — each diver gets a private instructor, which means plenty of guidance and safety reassurance. Second, the chance to see historic artifacts like 17th-century sunk cannons adds a fascinating historical dimension to the underwater scenery. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that this experience isn’t suitable for children under 10 or anyone with certain health issues, so it’s best for those in good physical condition and eager for a safe, beginner-friendly introduction to the sea.

If you’re after an authentic, low-pressure way to explore the Azorean underwater landscape, this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for travelers with limited time who want a taste of the underwater world without diving certification. It’s also a great option if you prefer a small, intimate group setting—limited to just six participants—ensuring personalized attention and a more relaxed atmosphere.

• Beginner-friendly: No previous diving experience needed, suitable for non-certified divers.
• Private instruction: Each guest is paired with a dedicated instructor for safety and confidence.
• Historic sights: Explore submerged 17th-century cannons, adding a historical twist.
• Ideal location: The Vila Franca do Campo marine reserve offers excellent visibility and marine diversity.
• Short but memorable: The 30-minute dive packs a lot of beauty into a compact session.
• Small groups: Limited to six participants, ensuring personalized guidance and attention.

Location & Setting

The tour starts at the Espírito Azul Dive Center, conveniently located inside the Vila Franca do Campo marina. From here, you’ll board a boat that takes you across the calm waters surrounding the Ilhéu of Vila Franca do Campo, a volcanic islet renowned for its crystal-clear visibility and abundant marine life. The setting is both stunning and accessible, making it an ideal spot for beginners eager to explore the ocean safely.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Theoretical Introduction

Once on board, the instructor will provide a brief classroom session covering the essentials: safety procedures, how to breathe through a regulator, communication signals, and equipment use. It’s designed to be straightforward, especially if you’ve never tried scuba before, and the instructor’s approach is friendly and clear. Expect to learn enough to feel comfortable and secure during the dive, which is key for those new to underwater adventures.

The Underwater Experience

After the classroom, you’ll gear up with diving equipment, including mask, fins, wetsuit, and regulator. The actual dive lasts around 30 minutes, during which you’ll be accompanied closely by your private instructor. The dive is in the marine reserve’s waters, famous for their excellent visibility—often ideal for novice divers—and diverse marine life such as colorful fish, sea anemones, and sometimes even octopus or rays.

One highlight noted by previous visitors is the chance to see submerged cannons from the 17th century, a fascinating reminder of the area’s maritime history. The underwater landscape features rocky formations, small caves, and vibrant coral, providing plenty to observe even in a brief session.

Comfort & Facilities

Back on the boat or at the marina, facilities are well thought out. There are changing rooms, WC, hot showers, and areas to relax after your session. All taxes and equipment are included in the price, so there are no hidden costs. This comprehensive setup ensures a smooth, comfortable experience from start to finish.

Who Will Enjoy This?

This tour is ideal for those curious about snorkeling but wanting to go a step further, for travelers who want a safe, guided introduction to diving, or those short on time but eager to see the underwater world of the Azores. The small group size means you’ll receive personalized guidance, making it especially suitable for beginners or anyone who prefers a more intimate experience.

Many reviewers emphasize the knowledgeable guides and the attentiveness of the instructor. One visitor praised it as “A team that listens,” highlighting the personalized care given during the experience. The small group setting not only fosters confidence but also allows the instructors to tailor their advice to each diver’s comfort level.

Travelers also appreciate the scenic setting. The Vila Franca do Campo marine reserve offers some of the best visibility in the Azores, and the combination of marine life and historical artifacts makes for a uniquely engaging experience. The inclusion of all necessary equipment and a boat tour adds to the value, especially considering the modest price of $125.

Some note that the experience is not suitable for children under 10, pregnant women, or those with certain health conditions. This is an important consideration if you’re traveling with family or have health concerns—safety is the top priority here.

• Availability & Timing: Check with the provider for specific start times, as they vary. Confirm your booking early, especially in peak season.
• What to Bring: Bring swimwear, towel, and perhaps a waterproof camera if you want to capture underwater moments (note that equipment is provided).
• Clothing: A wetsuit is part of the package, but bring a change of dry clothes for after.
• Health & Safety: If you have respiratory, heart, or other health issues, this experience is not suitable. Always consult your doctor beforehand.
• Cancellation Policy: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which offers flexibility if your plans change.

This experience is perfect for first-time divers wanting a safe, guided introduction to scuba in a beautiful setting. It’s great for travelers who prefer small groups and personalized attention, ensuring you’re comfortable and well-supported. If you’re interested in a mix of history, marine life, and adventure without the commitment of certification, this tour checks all those boxes.

It’s also an excellent choice for those who want to add a memorable activity to their Azores trip without the need for extensive preparation or equipment. If you’re traveling with family or friends who aren’t certified divers but still want to experience the ocean, this is a wonderful way to share the underwater excitement.

For $125, the Vila Franca do Campo Try Scuba Diving offers an authentic, well-organized, and memorable introduction to the underwater world. The combination of scenic boat rides, expert guidance, and history-packed dive sites makes it a unique experience for those eager to see the Azores from beneath the waves.

While it’s not for everyone—particularly those with health issues or under 10—most travelers will find the experience safe, enjoyable, and surprisingly rich in sights and stories. The private instructor element and small group size mean you’ll never feel hurried or overlooked, which can turn a simple activity into a cherished memory.

If you’re seeking an adventure that balances safety, education, and wonder, and you’re comfortable with water activities, this tour is a strong candidate. It’s a solid way to add a splash of exploration to your Azores itinerary, especially if you want an experience that’s intimate and authentic.

Is this experience suitable for non-certified divers?
Yes. This tour is specifically designed for non-certified divers, offering a guided, introductory experience suitable for beginners.

How long does the dive last?
The actual underwater session is approximately 30 minutes, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the marine scenery.

What does the tour include?
Your fee covers a private instructor, all diving equipment, a boat tour, facilities like changing rooms, WC, hot shower, and all taxes.

Can I cancel this activity?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

Are there age restrictions?
Yes, the activity isn’t suitable for children under 10 years old.

Is this experience safe for pregnant women?
No, pregnant women are advised not to participate due to safety concerns.

What language support is available?
Guides speak English, Portuguese, French, and Spanish, so communication should be smooth regardless of your language.

To sum it up, if you’re looking for a safe, authentic, and beautifully situated introduction to scuba diving in the Azores, this tour offers excellent value and a chance to see underwater life and history up close. Small groups, professional guides, and the chance to explore a protected marine area make it a standout option for those eager to experience the Atlantic’s wonders with confidence.

You can check availability for your dates here: