Snorkeling at Ilhéu das Cabras, Terceira: Boat and underwater

The underwater rock formations around Ilhéu das Cabras are what most people don't expect to find this close to shore.

Snorkel at Ilhéu das Cabras, a small island off Terceira in the Azores, with a certified guide leading a 90-minute activity that combines a boat ride around the island with time in the water exploring marine life and rock formations. The guide tailors the snorkeling to your skill level, whether you're a beginner or experienced. All equipment and fees are included, and the guide speaks English, Spanish or Portuguese.

The experience

The day starts with a boat trip around Terceira Island that takes you out to Ilhéu das Cabras, giving you time to settle in and see the coastal landscape before you enter the water. The boat itself is built for comfort and a relaxed pace, so you're not rushed through the journey to the snorkeling site.

Once you reach Ilhéu das Cabras, you put on the provided snorkeling gear and enter the clear water surrounding the island. The underwater world here centers on rock formations and the marine life that lives around them. The biodiversity is what draws people back. Because the guide adjusts the experience to match your comfort level, whether you've snorkeled before or this is your first time, you're not fighting against the pace or the depth.

A certified guide leads the entire activity and speaks your language (English, Spanish or Portuguese). All snorkeling equipment, entry fees and taxes are included in the price, so there's nothing to arrange separately once you arrive.

What’s included

• Certified guide in English, Spanish or Portuguese.
• snorkeling equipment (mask, fins, snorkel).
• boat ride around Terceira Island to Ilhéu das Cabras.
• all entry fees and taxes.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDepartures at 09:00, 13:00 and 16:00

Book up to10h before

AgesUp to age 90

GroupUp to 10

Live guideEnglish, Spanish and Portuguese

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 6 days ago

Good to know

Low physical effortPets welcomePublic transport nearbyNot recommended with heart problemsInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Scubazores divers

Is this one for you?The 90-minute timeframe fits snugly into a morning or afternoon without eating up your whole day, leaving you time for other activities in Terceira before or after. If you want a longer water experience or plan to explore multiple islands, this single-site activity may not be the fit. If you're looking for a focused underwater outing that doesn't demand a full day, this one works.

Traveler reviews

4.79★★★★★★★★★★

24 verified traveler reviews

5 ★20

4 ★3

3 ★1

2 ★0

1 ★0

Read all the reviews ›

Top questions

What languages is the tour guided in?

Live guide in English, Spanish and Portuguese.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What's the water like at Ilhéu das Cabras when you're snorkeling?

The water is clear, which is what makes the underwater rock formations and marine life visible. The abundance of fish and the rock structures themselves are the main draw. You're not snorkeling a sandy bottom.

Do I need snorkeling experience to join this activity?

No. The guide tailors the snorkeling to your skill level, so beginners and experienced snorkelers both do this activity. The guide ensures you feel confident exploring the underwater area.

What's included in the price?

Snorkeling equipment, the certified guide, the boat ride, and all fees and taxes are included. You don't pay extra for entry or gear.

How long is the whole activity, and what time does it start?

The activity runs 90 minutes total, covering the boat ride out to Ilhéu das Cabras and the snorkeling time in the water. A specific start time is set when you book.

Can I bring my own snorkeling gear?

Equipment is provided as part of the activity. If you prefer to use your own, confirm that with the operator when you book.