

Best for advanced divers, 13-18m, boat entry, mild current.
Gruta Azul is a submerged cave system located off Santa Maria, Azores, accessible only by boat. The site features depths ranging from 13 to 18 metres, with an average of 15 metres. Visibility typically spans 15 to 30 metres, allowing for light effects within the cave passages. Currents are generally mild, though the environment requires advanced buoyancy control to navigate around sharp rock formations. The site is suitable for advanced divers comfortable with overhead environments and is also available for night diving. Divers should carry at least one backup torch and verify that their cavern or cave diving certifications meet local operator requirements before arranging transport.
36.98060, -25.03830
On calm days, you can swim out into the open sea at the tip of the bay and return to the cave from the outside.
Boat access, 40 minutes from the Marina de Vila do Porto.
Recorded at this site
Depth
13-18m
Visibility
15-30m
Skill Level
Advanced
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
17-24°C
Current
Mild
Typical Dive
50 min
No, this site is intended for advanced divers who are comfortable with overhead environments and managing buoyancy around sharp rock.
The site ranges from 13 to 18 metres in depth, with an average depth of 15 metres.
Boat access is required to reach this cave system.
While the site is listed for both diving and snorkelling, the primary features are submerged cave passages at depths of 13 to 18 metres.
Divers must manage depth and buoyancy carefully to avoid sharp rock and should carry at least one backup torch.
Diving at Gruta Azul in Vila do Porto requires the following certifications: Advanced. Always dive within your training limits.
A 5mm wetsuit is recommended for diving at Gruta Azul in Vila do Porto. Water temperatures range from 17°C to 24°C.
Gruta Azul in Vila do Porto typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.
Visibility at Gruta Azul in Vila do Porto typically ranges from 15 metres to 30 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.