Manta Ray & Blue Spot Guided Tour – Top Dive Experience
Drift in open blue water with giant mantas and pelagic giants off the northeast tip of São Miguel Island.
The Manta Blue Spot dive sits approximately 25 nautical miles from Vila Franca do Campo Marina, placing divers above a seamount that rises from 100 metres depth to a rocky pinnacle peak at 60 metres below the surface. This offshore site is one of the Azores' most anticipated seasonal dives, attracting experienced divers from across Europe and beyond.
Dives are conducted in open water — known locally as diving in the blue — at depths ranging between 10 and 20 metres, using a fixed anchor line as both a physical and visual reference point. The structure of the dive allows participants to hold position comfortably while large marine animals move through the water column around them.
The site is seasonally active between July and September, when ocean conditions and water temperatures align to concentrate manta rays, amberjack, barracuda, and wahoo in the area. The full-day format runs from 08:30 to 16:30, including the approximately one-hour boat transit each way from the marina.
Tour Highlights
Dive above a remote seamount rising from 100 metres to 60 metres depth, northeast of São Miguel Island.
Encounter manta rays in their natural open-ocean environment during the peak July to September season.
Observe large pelagic species including amberjack, barracuda, and wahoo in the blue water column.
Activity insurance with Civil Liability coverage of 20 million EUR is included for every participant.
Dive is conducted along a fixed anchor line at 10 to 20 metres depth for safe orientation in open water.
Certified dive guide accompanies every dive, ensuring safety and maximising wildlife encounter opportunities.
Itinerary
The group meets at the marina and boards the dive vessel. A pre-dive briefing covers the site, the anchor-line technique, and safety protocols before departure.
The boat travels approximately 25 nautical miles northeast to the dive site, a journey of around one hour. Participants can observe the open Atlantic conditions during the crossing.
Divers descend along the anchor line and hold position at 10 to 20 metres depth. Manta rays and pelagic fish are typically encountered during this drift-style dive in the blue.
Between dives, participants rest aboard the vessel and enjoy traditional regional biscuits, fresh fruit, and water provided by the dive team.
A second dive at the same site offers additional time in the water, with opportunities to observe wahoo, barracuda, and amberjack alongside any returning mantas.
The vessel returns to Vila Franca do Campo Marina, arriving by approximately 16:30. The guide is available for post-dive questions during the return journey.
What's Included
Included
- Certified dive guide for both dives
- Tank and weights for two dives
- Traditional regional biscuits, fruit, and water
- Activity insurance with 20 million EUR Civil Liability cover
- Boat transport to and from the dive site
Not Included
- Personal dive equipment (wetsuit, BCD, regulator)
- Equipment rental if required
- Meals beyond the included snacks
- Personal travel insurance
- Gratuities
Important Information
Ready to Dive with Manta Rays?
Secure your place on one of the Azores' most sought-after offshore dive experiences. Spaces are limited and the season runs July through September only.
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