Diving with rays in the Azores: An adventure you never forget

Photo: HEDONIST

In the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, where Europe ends, and the ocean takes over, the Azores offer one of the most distinctive diving experiences in the world — an encounter with rays in their natural habitat. No aquariums, no glass, no choreography. Just the silence of the depths and the slow, almost hypnotic dance of these elegant marine creatures.

Diving with rays in the Azores is not an adrenaline-fueled spectacle, but an experience remembered for its sense of calm. Giant manta rays, with wingspans reaching up to seven meters, move gracefully, seemingly indifferent to human presence. It is precisely this unobtrusive elegance that makes the encounter so powerful — you feel like a guest in a perfectly ordered world that is not your own.

The most renowned sites are located around the islands of Santa Maria and Faial, where clear waters and strong ocean currents create ideal conditions for rays to gather. The season runs from late spring to autumn, and underwater visibility often exceeds 30 meters, making the experience exceptionally photogenic — even for those who are not professional divers.

The Azores are also a destination for those seeking more than adventure alone. After diving, the day naturally continues with a glass of wine, fresh fish, and a view of the endless ocean. Hedonism here is not loud — it is quiet, slow, and deep, much like the sea that has just welcomed you into its embrace.

Diving with rays in the Azores

Location: Azores, Portugal (most commonly around Pico and Faial islands)

Species: Manta rays (Mobula birostris)

Best time to dive: May – October

Water temperature: 18–24 °C

Visibility: 20–40 m (often more in good conditions)

Experience level: Open Water Diver recommended, with experience in open-ocean diving

Dive duration: 40–60 minutes

Why it’s special

The Azores are one of the few places in Europe where manta rays can be encountered along their natural migratory routes. The experience is calm, respectful and almost meditative — without baiting and without disturbing the animals’ natural behavior.

Hedonist tip

After the dive, end the day with a glass of local wine from Pico Island — whose vineyards are protected by UNESCO — and a dinner of freshly caught fish. The perfect balance between adrenaline and hedonism.