Best time to dive in Azores (Pico)

Optimal Diving Seasons

Peak Seasons

The best months for diving in the Azores, particularly around the island of Pico, are typically June, July, and August. During this period, you will experience the warmest water temperatures, optimal weather conditions, and visibility ranging from 20 to 30 meters. Marine life is abundant, with frequent sightings of diverse species, including large migrations of various pelagic fish and cetaceans, creating spectacular underwater experiences for divers.

Off-Peak Seasons

Diving during the off-peak seasons, which include the spring and fall months (March to May and September to November), offers its unique benefits and drawbacks. The pros include fewer tourists, meaning less crowded dive sites and a more relaxed experience. Some marine species are still present, and water visibility remains relatively good. However, the water temperature can be cooler, and weather conditions are less predictable, sometimes resulting in choppier waters. Divers should prepare for potentially variable conditions but can still enjoy exceptional diving opportunities.

Month-by-Month Guide

January to March: During these months, diving conditions in Pico can be challenging with colder water temperatures and potentially rough seas due to winter storms. Although visibility might be limited, divers could still encounter fascinating marine life such as conger eels, octopuses, and various nudibranchs.

April to June: These months mark the transition from winter to spring, leading to improved diving conditions. Water temperatures start to warm up, and visibility increases. This period is great for spotting pelagic species like tuna and occasional sightings of blue sharks. The island begins to bloom, making it an excellent time for both under and above water exploration.

July to September: This is considered the peak diving season in Pico. Water temperatures are at their warmest, reaching up to 24°C (75°F), and visibility is excellent. Divers during these months can witness majestic blue and possibly mako sharks, as well as large schools of fish. Whale watching season overlaps with diving, offering opportunities to see sperm whales and other cetaceans.

October to December: The autumn months offer a mix of warm water from the summer and gradually cooling temperatures. Visibility remains high, making it a good time for diving. Marine life is abundant, and divers could encounter sea turtles, as well as the beginning of the squid mating season, making for unique underwater experiences.

Diving Conditions

Water Temperature

Pico, located in the Azores, experiences seasonal variations in water temperature that all divers should be aware of. Generally, during the summer months, from June to September, the water temperature ranges between 22-25°C (72-77°F). This makes it comfortable for diving with a 3-5mm wetsuit. In contrast, the winter months, from December to March, see cooler waters, with temperatures dropping to 16-18°C (61-64°F). A thicker wetsuit, around 7mm or a drysuit, may be necessary during this period to ensure a comfortable dive.

Visibility

Visibility in Pico’s waters also varies throughout the year. The best visibility is typically found from June to October, where it can range between 15-30 meters (50-100 feet), providing excellent conditions for exploring the rich marine life and underwater landscapes. During the off-peak months, visibility might drop to around 10-20 meters (33-66 feet) due to increased plankton blooms and other environmental factors. However, even with reduced clarity, divers can still enjoy the unique underwater experience Pico offers.

Currents and Tides

Currents and tides around Pico are influenced by the mid-Atlantic ridge’s dynamic oceanographic conditions. Generally, the currents are moderate but can become stronger in certain areas, especially around the islands and underwater pinnacles. It is advisable to consult local dive centers for the best times to dive specific sites. Typically, calm conditions are more likely early in the morning and during slack tides. Divers should always be prepared for potential changes and always dive within their comfort and experience levels.

Recap

In summary, the best time to dive in Pico in the Azores is during the summer months of June to September, when the waters are warmest, and marine life is abundant. These months offer the clearest visibility and the most comfortable diving conditions, making it ideal for both recreational and professional divers. Spring and autumn also present good diving opportunities with relatively mild temperatures and decent visibility, though they may not match the optimal conditions of the summer. Winter, while offering fewer crowds and unique marine life encounters, presents cooler water temperatures and potentially rougher sea conditions, which should be considered by more experienced divers. By understanding the seasonal variations in diving conditions and marine life, divers can better plan their trips to maximize their underwater experiences in Pico, the crown jewel of the Azores.