Dive Site: Faial Channel

About Faial Channel

The Faial Channel, a strait approximately 4.5 nautical miles long, separates Faial Island from Pico Island in the Azores. This dynamic area is a crucial passage for marine life, contributing significantly to the rich biodiversity of the central group of Azorean islands. It acts as a natural corridor, making it a prime location for encountering a wide range of pelagic species drawn to its productive waters. Diving in the Faial Channel offers a diverse underwater landscape, characterized by volcanic formations that include walls, arches, and some areas with artificial reefs. Depths can vary, with some sites near Pico and within the channel being suitable for less experienced divers, while advanced spots can be quite deep, sometimes exceeding 35 meters. Divers explore areas where lava has formed intricate cracks, holes, and caves, providing shelter and hunting grounds for various marine creatures. The channel is renowned for its pelagic encounters, with frequent sightings of mobula rays and blue sharks, especially during the summer months from July to October. Other marine life includes moray eels, barracuda, bonitos, jacks, nudibranchs, and crustaceans inhabiting the volcanic structures. The area also serves as a reproduction ground for species like parrotfish and triggerfish, attracting larger predators. Conditions in the Atlantic are dynamic, and dives can range from very easy to more challenging depending on the specific site and daily conditions. Currents can appear unexpectedly, particularly in advanced spots. Operators often recommend starting with easier dives before progressing to more exposed locations, ensuring diver safety and acclimatization to the local environment. A 5mm or 7mm wetsuit is typically recommended due to water temperatures ranging from 18ºC to 23ºC.

Dive site facts: Faial Channel

Depth

10–35 m (and deeper)

Typical dive

15–30 m, 45–60 min

Current

Moderate to strong

Visibility

20–30 m (up to 45 m offshore)

Water temperature

16–24°C

Entry

Boat

Level

Advanced, current experience essential

Dive type

Pelagic, volcanic, wall, pinnacle

Night dive

Possible

Region / port

Azores, Faial

Coordinates

38.51, -28.6

Conditions & Currents

Diving in the Faial Channel is often characterized by strong currents due to its position between two islands and proximity to the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. These currents can be swift and unpredictable, necessitating advanced diving skills and careful planning. Divers may experience drift dives, where the boat follows the group, or require hanging from a mooring line at shallower depths while marine life swirls around. Surface conditions can also be affected by these currents, impacting entry and exit points. Visibility typically ranges from 20 to 30 meters, occasionally reaching up to 45 meters in remote offshore locations, but strong currents can stir up sediment in shallower areas. Water temperatures vary from 16°C to 24°C, with thermoclines possible in deeper sections. These dynamic conditions make the channel best suited for experienced divers comfortable with challenging environments an

Marine life & sighting chances

Blue shark

July–October · occasional

Mobula ray

Summer · occasional

Grouper

common

Moray eel

common

Octopus

common

Barracuda

common

Conger eel

common

Atlantic ray

common

Tuna

occasional

Common torpedo ray

occasional

Dive profile & how the dive runs

A typical dive in the Faial Channel often begins with a boat entry, frequently as a negative entry to quickly descend into the current. Divers will follow the guide along volcanic walls or pinnacles, where the current dictates the pace. Depths can vary, starting around 15-20 meters and progressing deeper along the wall, potentially reaching 35 meters or more depending on the site. The route might involve exploring lava arches and swim-throughs, paying close attention to schooling fish and larger pelagics in the blue. Turning points are usually determined by air consumption and bottom time, with a keen eye on current shifts. The safety stop is often conducted as a drifting stop in the open blue, or by holding onto a designated line from the boat if conditions allow, before a final ascent and boat exit.

Underwater photography

The Faial Channel offers diverse photographic opportunities, from wide-angle volcanic landscapes to fast-moving pelagic action and macro life in sheltered crevices. For wide-angle shots of the dramatic topography and schooling fish, a fisheye or wide-angle rectilinear lens is ideal, particularly given the excellent visibility. When photographing blue sharks or mobula rays, be prepared for dynamic subjects; fast shutter speeds and strobes are crucial for freezing motion and adding color. For macro subjects found in volcanic cracks, a dedicated macro lens will be beneficial. Maintaining excellent buoyancy control is paramount, especially in currents, to avoid disturbing the environment and ensure sharp images. Always respect marine life; avoid chasing or crowding animals, especially migratory pelagics, to ensure natural behavior and ethical photography.

Combine with nearby dive sites

• Princess Alice Bank (Azores)

  Iconic offshore seamount known for mobula rays and other pelagics.

• Baixa do Ambrósio

  Underwater pinnacle off Pico, frequented by mobulas and sharks.

• Angra do Heroísmo Wrecks

  Historic wreck dives off Terceira Island.

• Formigas Islets (Azores)

  Remote offshore islets, a biodiversity hotspot for mantas and sharks.

• São Jorge Wall

  Dramatic wall dives off São Jorge, close by ferry.

• Caloura Reef

  Reef diving off São Miguel, known for its vibrant marine life.

Getting there & logistics

Access to Faial Channel diving is primarily from Faial Island, with Horta serving as the main departure port. You can fly directly to Horta Airport (HOR) from Lisbon, or take inter-island flights from Ponta Delgada (São Miguel) or Lajes (Terceira) via Azores Airlines (SATA). Alternatively, fly to Pico Island and take a 30-minute ferry to Faial. Dive trips typically involve daily boat excursions, often combining Faial Channel dives with sites around Pico. An 8-day program usually includes 5 days of diving with 10 dives. Ensure you budget for any park fees or permits, although these are typically included in dive package prices.

Safety & environment

Diving in the Faial Channel requires careful attention to safety due to potentially strong currents and the remote nature of some sites. Divers should carry appropriate safety gear, including an SMB and dive computer. The nearest recompression chamber is located in Horta, Faial, which is a significant advantage. However, emergency evacuations, especially from offshore sites, can be complex and time-consuming. Comprehensive dive insurance, including coverage for medical emergencies and evacuation, is highly recommended. Always dive with a reputable operator, follow your guide's instructions diligently, and remain within your training limits. A 5mm or 7mm wetsuit is recommended to mitigate cooler water temperatures and potential longer dive times.

Who it suits — and who it doesn't

FAQ

Faial Channel FAQ

Liveaboards diving Faial Channel

These liveaboards may visit Faial Channel on selected itineraries — the exact dive sites depend on departure, weather and conditions.

Water And Wind

Portugal

8 guests13.41 m

$434/day