moderate
3–4 hours
Participants should be in average physical condition, comfortable with boat movement and short swims or snorkeling.
Set sail from Rabo de Peixe along São Miguel’s commanding north coast with Azores Seascape. This Open Seas Tour dives into volcanic cliffs, historic ports, and Atlantic waters brimming with life.
São Miguel, the largest island in Portugal’s Azores archipelago, offers raw Atlantic beauty with volcanic cliffs, black lava shores, and splashy ocean vistas. Azores Seascape invites visitors to step into this dynamic ocean environment through its Open Seas Tour, departing from Rabo de Peixe, a historic fishing village on the island’s north coast. This journey is not your typical tour; it’s a vivid encounter with the island’s geological power and maritime heritage.
The Open Seas Tour threads through dramatic sea cliffs sculpted by volcanic activity millions of years ago, revealing jagged fumaroles, basalt columns, and lava tubes that tell the island’s fiery past. As you glide along São Miguel’s rugged coast, the Atlantic’s deep blue water invites opportunities for snorkeling, revealing a thriving underwater world shaped by nutrient-rich currents. Expect sightings of native marine life including colorful fish and maybe even dolphins cruising alongside.
Rabo de Peixe itself packs a punch with its authentic fishing port ambience, where tradition remains palpable amid the clatter of boats and fresh sea air. It’s a place where local history blends seamlessly with natural surroundings—fishing has anchored this community for centuries, shaping its identity and economy.
Azores Seascape sets itself apart by balancing adventure and education, offering guests an immersive experience that pairs ocean excursions with stories of volcanic formation, local folklore, and conservation efforts. The tour’s pace respects the Atlantic’s mood—sometimes calm and reflective, sometimes wild and invigorating—making it a perfect fit for travelers craving both tranquility and exhilaration.
For anyone passing through São Miguel, this tour highlights the island’s north coast from a vantage point few travelers access, melding ocean adventure with cultural connection. Azores Seascape is a standout in the Azores landscape, delivering encounters that linger in memory long after the tides have receded.
Atlantic weather can shift quickly; staying dry ensures comfort during the tour.
Wet boat decks and rocky shorelines call for footwear with good grip.
Use waterproof cases or dry bags to safeguard cameras and phones from spray.
If prone to seasickness, take preventive measures before departure for a smoother trip.
Rabo de Peixe has been a vital fishing community for centuries, with its port dating back to early Azorean settlements, reflecting deep maritime traditions.
Tour operators like Azores Seascape prioritize sustainable practices to protect marine ecosystems and minimize human impact on fragile ocean habitats.
Protects you from ocean spray and sudden weather changes throughout the year.
Ensures safe footing on wet boat decks and rocky shorelines.
Optional equipment to fully appreciate the island’s underwater marine life.
summer specific
Critical for protecting skin from the extended daylight hours on open water.
summer specific