Diving in Portugal (Azores) in March

Conditions in March

So, you’re thinking about diving the Azores in March? Let's get real about what to expect. March in the Azores marks the tail end of winter and the beginning of spring, meaning conditions can be a bit of a mixed bag. The weather above the surface can be unpredictable, with cooler temperatures, increased chances of rain, and stronger winds compared to the prime summer months. Expect air temperatures to hover around 13-16°C (55-61°F). While the islands are beautiful under any sky, don't be surprised by sudden showers and choppier seas, especially on exposed dive sites.

Under the surface, the water temperature in March is on the cooler side, typically ranging from 15-17°C (59-63°F). This means a good quality 7mm wetsuit is pretty much essential for comfort, and a semi-dry or even a drysuit would be a welcome luxury for those longer dives. Visibility is generally excellent, often exceeding 20 meters, and on a good day, you can expect 30 meters or more. This clarity is a real treat when the sun breaks through, illuminating the dramatic volcanic topography. Keep in mind that currents can be strong around some of the offshore seamounts and pinnacles, which is part of what attracts the larger pelagic life.

Overall, March isn't the calmest month for diving in the Azores, and your dive plans might be slightly more weather-dependent than in, say, August. However, for those prepared for cooler conditions and a bit of a swell, the rewards can be immense. The crowds are minimal, and the marine life, though different from the summer aggregations, offers a unique experience. Liveaboard operations are generally gearing up or just starting their seasons, so you might find fewer options compared to peak season, but also a more intimate experience.

What you will see

March in the Azores might not be synonymous with huge, schooling mobulas or the most reliable whale shark sightings, but it offers its own unique charm and incredible encounters. This is a fantastic time for pelagic fish, as the slightly cooler waters often bring certain species closer to the islands. You’re likely to encounter large schools of barracuda, amberjacks, and various bream species. Keep your eyes peeled for impressive groupers lurking in the volcanic crevices.

While the true sardine run isn't a March phenomenon, there are often large baitfish aggregations that attract bigger predators. This period can be excellent for various shark species, especially blue sharks and mako sharks, which are more common in the open ocean around the seamounts. Although not guaranteed, you might also have a chance to spot whale species, as migrating pods of sperm whales and common dolphins are frequent visitors to these rich waters. The Azores are a year-round whale watching destination, and March offers a good chance for some sightings, even if the primary focus shifts from diving.

Don't forget the incredible macro life, even when the big stuff isn't around. The volcanic reefs teem with nudibranchs, colourful anemones, and a variety of small crustaceans. For keen photographers, the clear water and dramatic volcanic landscapes provide stunning backdrops for both wide-angle and macro shots. While you might not see the massive manta rays that grace the summer months, the sheer health and biodiversity of the Azorean ecosystem are undeniable, offering rewarding discoveries on every dive.

Top dive sites this month

Given the potentially choppier conditions in March, sheltered dive sites closer to the islands, along with the resilient offshore seamounts, tend to be the stars. Off Faial, the Condor Bank is a legendary spot for pelagic encounters. While its exposure means it's not always accessible, if the conditions allow, it’s a prime location for blue sharks and large schools of tunas and amberjacks. Further offshore, the Princess Alice Bank, another renowned pelagic hotspot, is also highly dependent on sea conditions. If you can get there, the sheer abundance of large fish life and potential for mobula rays (though more common later in the season, they are sometimes seen early) makes it unforgettable.

Closer to shore, the volcanic craters and lava tubes offer fantastic protection and incredible scenery. The dive sites around Vila Franca do Campo islet off São Miguel, such as "Gruta Azul" (Blue Grotto) and the walls of the islet, provide stunning swim-throughs, healthy reefs, and a rich display of smaller marine life, often protected from stronger swells. Similarly, the reefs and caves around Terceira, particularly sites like Baixa do Amelau, are excellent choices, offering impressive rock formations and diverse fish populations even when the weather isn't perfect. These sites tend to be more reliably diveable and offer a different, yet equally captivating, Azorean diving experience.

Practical tips for your trip

To make your March diving trip to the Azores as enjoyable as possible, let's talk gear and expectations. As mentioned, a 7mm wetsuit is the minimum you should consider, and a semi-dry or a drysuit will elevate your comfort significantly in the 15-17°C (59-63°F) water. Don't forget a hood, gloves, and booties – these are non-negotiable for warmth. Layers are key for surface intervals, so pack waterproof and windproof outwear, even if the sun is shining when you leave the hotel.

This month is ideal for intermediate to advanced divers who are comfortable with cooler water, potentially strong currents, and a bit of surface chop. While beginners can certainly dive, the conditions might be less forgiving, and some of the more exciting pelagic sites are best left to experienced divers. Liveaboard availability will be more limited compared to peak season, so research and book well in advance if you're set on a particular vessel. Alternatively, shore-based diving with local operators offers more flexibility and access to sheltered sites. Be aware that flight schedules to the Azores can be less frequent in March, so plan your travel logistics carefully and allow for buffer time in case of weather delays. Embrace the Atlantic adventure, and you'll have an unforgettable experience!