Vila Franca do Campo is a standout spot for snorkeling in the Azores. Its crystal-clear waters, the lush landscape, and the famous Vila Franca do Campo Islet create a perfect setting for underwater adventures. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or a curious beginner, you’ll find options that suit your pace and interests. We’re particularly fond of the full-day sailing tour with lunch, which combines relaxing sailing, scenic views, and snorkeling around the islet—all in one seamless experience. For those seeking a shorter, more focused outing, the Snorkeling Tour of Vila Franca do Campo Marine Reserve offers a peek into the underwater world near the old cannons and marine reserve.
If you’re interested in a multi-activity experience, the Half Day: Sailing, snorkeling and Stand up Paddle tour provides a well-rounded taste of Azores waters, while bird watching combined with snorkeling offers a unique chance to observe both marine and avian wildlife. No matter what you choose, the variety of options means you can tailor your trip to fit your schedule, budget, and level of adventure.
Quick Overview
Below, you’ll find a detailed look at five top snorkeling options in Vila Franca do Campo. From half-day adventures with gear included to full-day tours with meals and scenic sailing, there’s something for every type of traveler. Click on each experience for more details and bookings:
– Snorkeling Tour – Vila Franca do Campo Islet
– Half Day: Sailing, snorkeling, and Stand up Paddle
– Full Day: Sailing tour with lunch & snorkeling
– Vila Franca do Campo: Snorkeling Tour
– Vila Franca do Campo: Bird Watching & Snorkeling
1. Snorkeling Tour- Vila Franca do Campo Islet
This snorkeling tour around the Vila Franca do Campo Islet offers an easy way to explore the underwater environment that made this tiny island famous. Starting at the Vila Watersports Center, you’ll be guided around the islet, which is renowned as a marine reserve. The tour lasts about 1.5 hours, making it perfect for travelers wanting a quick, immersive experience without dedicating a whole day.
The highlight here is the chance to see a variety of marine life—from colorful fish to the remnants of old cannons from the 17th century. The guides do a commendable job of navigating conditions, even when the weather isn’t ideal, ensuring you still get a glimpse of the vibrant underwater world. Past reviews mention the friendliness and knowledge of the guides, with one noting, “Dominik and Carlo were very nice, funny people. Taught us about the lagoon and the fish.” While visibility can sometimes be affected by weather, the experience remains a top pick for those wanting a focused snorkel trip.
Bottom Line: This tour provides a quick, accessible way to enjoy the marine reserve, especially if you’re short on time but eager to see the underwater life near the islet.
2. Half Day: Sailing, snorkeling and Stand up Paddle
At number 2, this half-day combined activity offers a flexible mix of sailing, snorkeling, and stand-up paddleboarding—ideal for travelers who want diversity without straying far from the coast. For around $188 for the group, you get three hours of fun starting at Marina Ponta Delgada. Your day includes all necessary snorkeling gear, so no need to bring your own.
What makes this experience stand out is the opportunity to relax on a sailing boat while enjoying spectacular views of the coastline. You can also bring your own food and drinks onboard, making it perfect for a more laid-back day. The snorkeling spot is carefully chosen to maximize your chances of seeing local fish and marine life, while the paddling adds a playful element. Reviewers often praise the friendly crew and the peaceful atmosphere, with one saying, “It’s a relaxing way to enjoy the water and see the coast from a different perspective.”
Bottom Line: This tour suits those wanting a multi-activity, flexible outing that combines sailing and snorkeling with the option to just float and paddle at their own pace.
3. Full Day: Sailing tour with lunch & snorkeling included
For an all-day adventure, this full-day sailing tour offers a comprehensive taste of the Azores sea. Starting from Marina Ponta Delgada, the trip lasts about 8 hours, giving plenty of time to explore, relax, and enjoy multiple water activities. The highlight, of course, is the visit to the Vila Franca do Campo Islet, where you can snorkel in its calm, protected waters.
This tour is all-inclusive, with lunch served onboard and ample time to explore the islet’s marine reserve. It’s perfect for travelers who want to experience the Azores from the water, with the chance to admire scenic vistas and spot local marine life. The reviews also emphasize the quality of the experience, with one reviewer calling it “an incredible, relaxing day on the water, with fantastic views and an all-inclusive vibe.” The guides’ knowledge and the leisurely pace make this ideal for families or anyone looking to truly unwind.
Bottom Line: For around $165, this full-day sailing offers a balance of scenic beauty, activity, and comfort—great for those who want a comprehensive, relaxed day on the water.
4. Vila Franca do Campo: Snorkeling Tour
This snorkeling tour in Vila Franca do Campo Marine Reserve is a budget-friendly option at just $63 per person. Lasting about 2 hours, it offers a straightforward way to discover underwater highlights near the historic town. The tour focuses on exploring the marine reserve, including the famous XVII-century cannons and the underwater landscape around the islet.
What makes this tour appealing is its short duration, making it manageable even for travelers with tight schedules. The guides are knowledgeable, providing insights into the marine ecosystem and the history of the area. The reviews mention the rich marine life and the cool experience of swimming near the old cannons. It’s best suited for those who want a quick, focused snorkel without a lot of extra fuss.
Bottom Line: This is a solid, affordable choice for travelers eager to snorkel in a protected marine area, with enough time to enjoy the underwater scenery and learn some local history.
5. Vila Franca do Campo: Bird Watching & Snorkeling
Rounding out our list is the Bird Watching & Snorkeling tour, which lasts about 2.5 hours. It’s perfect for travelers who want a combined experience of observing marine and bird wildlife. Starting from Vila Franca do Campo, this guided boat trip offers the chance to spot birds, crabs, and marine fish in their natural habitats, along with snorkeling around the islet.
What sets this tour apart is its educational focus—guides share insights on both the bird species and the underwater life. Reviewers appreciate the friendly guides and the chance to see both land and sea creatures up close. It’s especially suitable for nature lovers who want more than just snorkeling, adding a wildlife observation element that enhances the experience.
Bottom Line: For travelers interested in both bird watching and snorkeling, this tour offers a well-rounded, engaging outing with a focus on natural history and wildlife.
How to Choose the Right Snorkeling Experience in Vila Franca do Campo
Choosing between these tours depends on your time, budget, and interests. If you’re short on time but eager to see the marine reserve, the Snorkeling Tour of Vila Franca do Campo provides a quick, affordable introduction. For a full day of relaxation with meals included, the full-day sailing tour offers a leisurely, scenic adventure. Meanwhile, if you’re keen on combining wildlife observation with snorkeling, the bird watching and snorkeling combo is a unique pick.
Consider your activity level and preferences—sailing tours tend to be more relaxed and scenic, while shorter snorkeling trips focus on underwater sights. Booking early is wise, especially in the busy summer months, to secure your spot on these popular excursions.
In summary, Vila Franca do Campo offers a range of snorkeling experiences—from quick dives to full-day voyages—that cater to different interests and schedules. The full-day sailing tour with lunch is excellent for a relaxed, all-inclusive adventure, while the marine reserve snorkeling is perfect for those on a budget. For wildlife enthusiasts, the bird watching & snorkeling tour adds a fascinating dimension. No matter your choice, these tours promise a memorable splash into the clear waters of the Azores. Book early, and enjoy discovering the vibrant underwater world of Vila Franca do Campo.