Conditions in December
Diving in the Azores in December is an experience for the truly adventurous and well-prepared. This isn't your typical warm-water dive holiday, but it offers a unique charm for those seeking a rugged, untamed ocean. The weather above water can be quite unpredictable, with a higher likelihood of strong winds, rain, and choppy seas. This often means some dive sites, especially those exposed to the open ocean, may be inaccessible due to rough conditions. You'll need to be flexible with your itinerary, as dive ops may adjust plans daily based on the forecast.
Underwater, the scene is still vibrant. Water temperatures typically range from 16–18°C (61–64°F), so a thick wetsuit or drysuit is absolutely essential for comfort and warmth. Visibility, while still good, might not be at its summer peak, often ranging from 15 to 25 meters, depending on recent weather and currents. Currents can be present and occasionally strong, particularly around seamounts and exposed islets, adding to the challenge but also bringing in nutrients and pelagic action. This time of year definitely favors experienced divers comfortable with varying conditions.
What you will see
Despite the cooler water, December in the Azores can still offer fantastic encounters, albeit with a focus on different species than the summer months. While the massive aggregations of mobula rays and whale sharks are largely gone, you can still encounter schooling fish like barracuda and jacks around the seamounts. The cooler waters often mean an increased chance of seeing pelagic species that prefer these temperatures. Look out for various species of sharks, including blue sharks and mako sharks, though these encounters are less frequent than in late summer and early autumn.
December is an excellent time for encountering resident species that thrive year-round. You’ll find healthy populations of groupers, stingrays, and moray eels in the shallower reefs and wrecks. The macro life is also abundant; keep an eye out for colourful nudibranchs, octopuses, and intricate small crustaceans tucked into crevices. While humpback whales begin their migration south, you might still get lucky with an encounter closer to shore, particularly with resident sperm whales or short-finned pilot whales, though these are never guaranteed and require surface sightings from boats.
Top dive sites this month
Given the potential for rougher surface conditions, dive sites closer to the main islands or those offering more shelter tend to be more reliable in December. Near Faial, the Princess Alice Bank is still an option on calmer days, though conditions can be more challenging and fewer liveaboards are operating. When accessible, it remains a fantastic spot for shark encounters, including blue sharks and sometimes even hammerheads, drawn to the seamount. You'll need calm seas to reach it, however.
For more consistent diving, sites like the Ambrósio Bank near Santa Maria offer sheltered volcanic structures teeming with reef life. Further west, in Faial, the Grottoes of Gruta dos Anjos provides an interesting cavern dive with impressive rock formations and diverse macro life, offering a different kind of experience that is less exposed to the open ocean swell. Another reliable choice is the Terceira Island's protected bays, where sites like the Cemitério das Âncoras (Anchor Cemetery) provide fascinating historical dives with abundant marine life in shallower, often calmer waters. Remember to check with your dive operator about current conditions and accessibility before planning your trip.
Practical tips for your trip
For diving in the Azores in December, a 7mm wetsuit with a hood, gloves, and booties is the absolute minimum you should consider. Many divers will find a semi-dry suit or even a drysuit far more comfortable for multiple dives in 16–18°C (61–64°F) water. This month is generally best suited for experienced divers. Beginners might find the cooler temperatures, potentially stronger currents, and variable surface conditions a bit daunting. Liveaboard availability is significantly reduced in December; many operators cease operations or move their vessels to warmer waters. If you're set on a liveaboard, book well in advance and be prepared for limited options.
When packing, think layers for both above and below the water. Warm, windproof, and waterproof outer layers are essential for boat rides and surface intervals. Consider bringing seasickness medication, as sea conditions can be choppy. Because of the unpredictable weather, build in some buffer days into your travel plans in case of flight delays or cancellations, or if ideal diving days are limited. Embrace the wild beauty of the Azores in winter; it offers a raw and unforgettable diving experience for those who are prepared and flexible. Consider combining your dive trip with some land-based activities like hiking or exploring the dormant volcanoes, as not every day may be suitable for diving.