Sea Riders Dive Center

Sea Riders Dive Center is situated in the heart of Horta, Azores, operating out of the Marina da Horta. The centre provides access to some of the most diverse marine environments in the Atlantic, ranging from sheltered coastal reefs to deep-sea seamounts.

Whether you are looking for a relaxed shore dive or a full-day expedition to remote banks, the centre's approach is rooted in marine biology and ocean conservation. This scientific perspective informs every excursion, ensuring that encounters with large pelagics are conducted with respect for the environment.

The centre is led by Alba, a marine biologist, skipper, and dive instructor. Her background in marine science brings a unique educational dimension to the diving experience, particularly when encountering the region's significant pelagic life.

As an SSI affiliated centre, Sea Riders provides a structured range of training from beginner levels through to Divemaster. The team prioritises safety and accessibility, ensuring that both novice divers and experienced professionals are well-supported throughout their time in the water.

Sea Riders offers a complete range of SSI certification courses. You can begin your journey with the Open Water Diver course or progress through the Advanced Open Water Diver and Advanced Adventure programmes.

For those looking to move into professional diving or enhance their safety skills, the centre provides Stress & Rescue and Divemaster training. They also offer the React Right course, covering CPR, oxygen administration, and first aid.

The centre operates the CAVALINHA, a well-equipped boat designed for comfort during longer excursions. It features dedicated shaded areas to protect you from the sun and includes an on-board bathroom.

The vessel is used for a variety of trips, including short coastal runs, half-day shark dives, and full-day expeditions to Princess Alice Bank. For those looking for a more private experience, the boat is available for private charters.

The waters around Horta are a hub for large pelagics. Depending on the season, you can encounter Blue Sharks from late June to late October, or join snorkeling excursions to see Hammerhead Sharks between June and September. At Princess Alice Bank, the area is a hotspot for Mobula tarapacana, alongside barracuda, wahoos, Atlantic tuna, and amberjack, with occasional sightings of whale sharks.

In the protected coastal areas of Monte da Guia, you will find a high level of biodiversity. This includes regular sightings of Mobula rays and Great barracuda, contributing to the vibrant ecosystem of the reef flats.

The marine life also includes a variety of smaller species that inhabit the Atlantic currents, providing a rich environment for both divers and snorkelers looking for diverse encounters.

Diving in the Azores is heavily influenced by Atlantic weather patterns. Many of the offshore expeditions, particularly those to Princess Alice Bank and the blue shark sites, are highly dependent on sea conditions and are subject to weather-related changes.

Coastal diving near Monte da Guia can be conducted from the shore between March and October, while more advanced offshore drift dives are best suited for those comfortable with moderate currents in open water.