Azores: Manta Conservation Diving Experience

• Dive in the unique and amazing underwater world of the Azores and learn more about the sicklefin devil rays and manta rays that gather near the Island of Santa Maria.
• Learn and get hands-on experience in conservation research guided by researcher Ana Filipa Sobral, the Manta Catalog Azores conservation project leader.
• Learn photo ID techniques and upload your work to the Manta Catalog Azores database, contributing to the wider knowledge of these species and ultimately to their conservation globally.
• Discover some of the most authentic and iconic spots of Santa Maria with a trip around the island. Experience genuine local culture and authentic local cuisine.
• Join local communities in the protection of nature, raising awareness not only for these threatened species but also for the urgency to ensure a sustainable future for these ecosystems.

Located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, just a few hours by plane from both Europe and North America, the Azores archipelago is considered one of the top diving destinations in Europe. The Azorean Sea is home to a high diversity and richness of marine life that has led to its designation as a Hope Spot, and it is a hotspot for large pelagic species like manta rays and sicklefin devil rays, our primary focus, as well as whales, sharks, dolphins, and sea turtles.

On this unique, conservation focused expedition, guests will enjoy two dives per day: 1) a daily dive at the Ambrosio seamount, and 2) A second dive at one of a variety of spots in natural reserves and marine protected areas such as the Formigas Islets (Ilheus das Formigas).

Divers will enjoy crystal-clear waters (reaching up to 40 meters visibility), untouched nature, and a huge variety of underwater geological formations and amazing diving sites. Diving in Santa Maria is a very exclusive experience. Diving companies are committed to preserving protected areas and they respect a strict diving schedule, with only one company and a limited number of divers per time slot in each place. Oceanic Society is excited to be partnering with Oceanário de Lisboa to offer you this unique manta conservation opportunity.

This amazing adventure requires an Advanced Open Water diving certification level (Open Water certification might be accepted in cases of proven extensive diving). Water temperature usually is 19-24 ºC, and air temperatures are 18-26 ºC. A 5mm or 7 mm wetsuit is recommended. Sea and weather conditions may vary a lot and the program may need to be adjusted accordingly.

Notes on Trip Costs

Trip price does not include airfare to and from Santa Maria, Azores (SMA), diving gear rentals, and Travel Insurance and DAN membership  (required).

Special Terms and Conditions apply for this expedition: 

Payment: 50% at the time of booking and the remaining 50% up to 8 weeks before the  program.

Cancellations up to 8 weeks before the start of the program: fee of 30% of total cost will be deducted and the remainder will be refunded. Cancellations less than 4 weeks before the program starts: no refund. Please see our General Terms & Conditions for expeditions for other important information.

Watch a Video About this Expedition