Season Challenge

Season Challenge is a PADI 5 Star IDC Dive Resort situated in Ponta Delgada, on the island of São Miguel in the Azores. The centre is positioned to take advantage of the archipelago's unique volcanic geography and its proximity to deep Atlantic waters.

This is a location defined by its dramatic underwater topography and its status as a sanctuary for large marine life. Whether you are looking to complete your initial certifications or are an experienced diver seeking pelagic encounters, the centre operates daily dives to explore this preserved Atlantic environment.

As a PADI 5 Star IDC Dive Resort, the centre maintains a high level of professional training and instruction. The team is composed of highly qualified and experienced instructors capable of guiding you through the full spectrum of PADI training programmes.

The staff is equipped to manage everything from introductory dives to professional-level development. They focus on providing a safe environment through modern equipment and experienced guidance for every diver in the water.

Season Challenge offers a comprehensive range of PADI courses for all experience levels. Beginners can start with the Open Water Diver course, while those looking to expand their skills can progress through the Advanced Open Water Diver and Deep Diver programmes.

For divers looking to move towards a professional career, the centre provides Rescue Diver and Divemaster training. They also offer the Nitrox course, which is essential for anyone wanting to utilise enriched air during their adventures in the Azores.

The centre is equipped with modern diving kit to support both recreational and training divers. Nitrox is available on-site for those looking to extend their bottom times during their dives.

For those travelling without their own setup, a range of equipment is available for hire. The centre provides a base in Ponta Delgada to organise your kit and prepare for your daily departures.

The waters around São Miguel are famous for frequent encounters with large pelagics. You can regularly observe whales and dolphins in their natural habitat, making this a premier destination for those interested in large marine mammals.

In the open water, you are likely to encounter a variety of fish including Jack (Carangidae), Amberjack (Seriola), Tuna (Thunnus), and wahoos. Large schooling fish, such as various small schooling fish and anchovies, are common sights, often accompanied by predators like Great barracuda (Sphyraena barracuda), yellowmouth barracudas, and bluefish.

Other significant species include various rays, such as stingrays, devil rays, and mobula rays, as well as the Ocean sunfish (Mola mola). You may also spot Manta ray (Mobula alfredi), mobulas, and even the Whale shark (Rhincodon typus) depending on the specific conditions and location.

For those interested in closer inspection, the reef and seabed host a variety of life including Octopus (Octopus vulgaris), Red scorpionfish (Scorpaena scrofa), and various reef fish. Nudibranch (Chromodoris willani) and other smaller creatures can be found amongst the marine life, providing interest for macro enthusiasts.