What level of swimming ability is required?

Participants should be comfortable in open water and able to swim short distances unassisted.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes, Sailingside supplies high-quality snorkeling gear as part of the trip package.

Are the water conditions suitable for beginners?

Generally, yes. The waters around São Roque are calm and clear, ideal for novice snorkelers.

How large are the tour groups?

Groups are limited to a maximum of 10 people to ensure a personalized experience.

What marine wildlife can I expect to see?

Colorful reef fish such as wrasses and damselfish are common, along with sea grasses and occasional larger sea creatures.

Is the trip suitable for children?

Yes, the activity is family-friendly with no strict age limits, but children should be supervised closely.

Snorkeling Adventures with Sailingside in Ponta Delgada

Ponta Delgada, the vibrant gateway to Portugal’s Azores archipelago, offers more than just lush landscapes and volcanic peaks—it’s also a launchpad for intimate encounters with the Atlantic’s underwater world. Sailingside, based right at Marina de Ponta Delgada, elevates this experience with their specialized snorkeling boat trips that transport guests to the rock of Relva and the islet of São Roque. These small, rugged outcrops form a striking natural stage for a two-hour snorkeling excursion that reveals the rich marine biodiversity thriving beneath the water’s surface.

The crystalline waters around São Roque are prized for their clarity and tranquility, providing ideal conditions for snorkeling enthusiasts of all skill levels. As you dip below the surface, you’ll find yourself among volcanic rock formations encrusted with colorful algae, swaying sea grasses, and darting schools of fish native to the mid-Atlantic. Species like ornate wrasse and bright damselfish add splashes of color, while occasional sightings of larger marine animals make the outing all the more memorable.

Sailingside’s small group tours (capped at 10 participants) offer a personalized, hands-on approach—equipped with top-tier snorkeling gear, and led by knowledgeable guides who share insights about local marine ecology and geological features. The boat’s modern amenities, including a central cockpit with cartographic plotting tools and a powerful outboard motor, enable smooth sailing to the destination and back.

This trip provides a rare blend of adventure and calm, perfectly suited to Ponta Delgada’s coastal charm. It’s a standout way to connect with the Azores’ marine environment, a region that continues to grow in stature as a sustainable travel destination. From the accessible size of the islet to the vivid underwater life, Sailingside’s snorkeling experience opens a new chapter in outdoor recreation here—an aquatic escape that’s as educational as it is exhilarating.

About Sailingside

Sailingside is a charter company based in Ponta Delgada, Portugal, offering sailing tours and boat rentals around São Miguel Island in the Azores. Departures are from the marina in Ponta Delgada. Sailingside provides guided trips with experienced skippers and self‑drive rentals without skippers. Guided offerings include full‑day sails that combine cruising, snorkeling, and diving, shorter half‑day excursions to Ilhéu da Vila Franca do Campo, and specialized itineraries such as the Full Day Deluxe — an eight‑hour exploration of the southern coast and the islet of Vila Franca do Campo aboard two boats.

Multi‑day options include a two‑day, one‑night journey with an overnight stay at Marina da Povoação. Activity‑driven trips feature seascooters, stand‑up paddleboarding, and comprehensive snorkeling equipment. Sailingside lists several rental durations: half‑day, full‑day, 24‑hour, 48‑hour and multi‑day hires available without a skipper for qualified renters. Safety and environmental responsibility are emphasized across all services, with clear guidelines for cetacean observation and respectful wildlife viewing. The operator supports responsible boating practices and briefings to protect marine life.

Sailingside’s fleet and crew are positioned to deliver leisure sailing, adventure water‑sports, and private charters for small groups. Popular experiences include snorkeling at São Roque and Relva, visits to Ilhéu da Vila Franca, sunset cruises and VIP options, and private excursions for exploration and relaxation. For visitors seeking a flexible, active maritime experience in the Azores, Sailingside offers convenient departures from Ponta Delgada marina and a variety of professionally managed sea adventures. Bookings are available year‑round subject to weather and availability; online booking.