July is the migratory season for several species of whales—such as the sperm whale,
blue whale, and fin whale!

THIS IS A GREAT OPPORTUNITY FOR DIVERS OF ALL LEVELS to relax and experience some of the most
pristine waters in the world.

Scuba diving in the Azores offers an unparalleled experience due to its diverse marine life and stunning underwater landscapes.

The volcanic origins of the islands create unique diving sites filled with underwater arches, lava tubes, and caverns, providing a breathtaking backdrop for exploration.
The Azorean waters are home to an abundance of marine species, from schools of vibrant fish to majestic manta rays, and even encounters with the elusive sperm whale.

The region's commitment to conservation ensures that these natural wonders remain pristine and accessible to divers of all skill levels.

Whether you're a seasoned diver or a beginner looking for your next adventure, the Azores promises a diving experience you won't soon forget.

São Miguel

(Part 1)

minimum of 10 guests required

July 7-14, 2025

Please note: Dives are $100 per 2-tank boat dive and night dives are $80/dive. This has not been added to the package price.
When you register, you can choose how many days of diving per island you want to add to your package.

Discover the awe-inspiring charm of São Miguel, where every step offers an adventure unlike any other.

Stand atop the iconic Boca do Inferno viewpoint, as the breathtaking panorama of valleys and ocean unfolds before you, leaving you speechless. Find yourself engrossed in the vibrant colors and scents of Parque Terra Nostra, where lush gardens and natural thermal pools invite you for an immersive experience that is both revitalizing and captivating.
Experience the thrill of exploring the mystical Lagoa do Fogo, an untouched volcanic crater lake that feels like stepping into another world—a place so serene, you’ll feel as though time has stopped.

Wander through bustling local markets, taste the island's distinctive culinary offerings, and mingle with the warm-hearted locals who make each moment unforgettable.

Every aspect of São Miguel is designed to stir a longing within you, leaving those who missed out yearning for the incredible experiences and memories you’ll create.

LISBON
(Part 2)

(optional add-on)
Minimum of 10 guests required

July 14-19, 2025

Please note: Dives are $100 per 2-tank boat dive. This has not been added to the package price.
When you register, you can choose how many days of diving per island you want to add to your package.

If you're still contemplating whether to join the post-tour trip to Lisbon, now is the moment to leap into an adventure teeming with experiences that you'll be talking about for years to come.

Imagine standing on the historic streets of Lisbon, surrounded by the vibrant buzz of the city, capturing breathtaking views from São Jorge Castle as the sun sets, painting the cityscape in hues of orange and pink. Picture yourself sipping port wine while unwinding at a rooftop terrace with friends, overlooking the twinkling city lights. Experience the thrill of fado music echoing through the narrow alleyways of Alfama, stirring up emotions that words alone cannot capture.

Every corner of Lisbon has a story to tell, and by choosing to join the post-tour trip, you're not just visiting a city—you're creating memories that will evoke envy in those who didn’t take this dazzling opportunity.

Don’t miss out on the next chapter of your travel saga—Lisbon is calling, and it promises to be nothing short of magical.

Porto

(Part 3)

(optional add-on)
Minimum of 10 guests required

July 19-24, 2025

Embarking on our pre-tour trip to Porto promises an adventure filled with unforgettable moments that you won't want to miss.

Imagine wandering through the ancient streets of Ribeira, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where vibrant, colorful buildings line the Douro River, offering breathtaking views that you’ll long to capture.
Picture yourself indulging in rich and aromatic port wine, directly from the cellars of the iconic wine lodges dotting the city's landscape. Visualize the sensation of traversing the majestic Dom Luís I Bridge, taking in panoramic vistas that will leave you in awe.

Porto's culinary scene is nothing short of spectacular, with traditional dishes like Francesinha sparking a feast for your taste buds. Dive into a world of craftsmanship at Livraria Lello, often hailed as one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world, providing an enchanting backdrop for literary lovers.

This pre-tour trip is more than just an add-on—it's an essential chapter of your journey, offering experiences that will leave you yearning for more and stories that will captivate others. Don’t let this opportunity pass you by.

Please note: Dives are $100 per 2-tank boat dive. This has not been added to the package price.
When you register, you can choose how many days of diving per island you want to add to your package.

REGISTRATION FORM

PLEASE TYPE CAREFULLY! INACCURATE INFORMATION WILL RESULT IN TRAVEL DELAYS AND/OR CHANGE FEES.

(Please submit one registration form per person)

Pricing details

NOTE: All pricing & availability is subject to change until completed through the booking process. If your vacation package includes airfare, baggage fees may be an additional cost. For international travel, a passport book is required. Most locations require at least 6 months before expiration on your passport, as well as 2 blank visa pages. Please make sure to have the correct and updated documents if applicable. If you have a criminal background, you are responsible for knowing the travel restrictions pertaining to the offense.

PART 1: AZORES- São Miguel Island
price Per Person: 

Double occupancy

$3,235/pp

Single occupancy

$4,310

PART 2: LISBON
price Per Person: 

Double occupancy

$2,910/pp

Single occupancy

$3,960

PART 3: PORTO
price Per Person: 

Double occupancy

$2,908/pp

Single occupancy

$3,996

*All pricing & availability is subject to change until completed through the booking process. If your vacation package includes airfare, baggage fees may be an additional cost. For international travel, a passport book is required. Most locations require at least 6 months before expiration on your passport, as well as 2 blank visa pages. Please make sure to have the correct and updated documents if applicable. If you have a criminal background, you are responsible for knowing the travel restrictions pertaining to the offense.

Payments can be made by a credit card which includes a 3% processing fee or by check dropped off to the front desk of the dive shop or mailed directly to the shop.

INCLUDED IN THE QUOTE

• Ground Transportation listed above

• Hotels listed above

• Breakfast daily

  $65/pp/day per diem

  • Per Diems on “Free Days” are not included

• Tours listed above

• Part 2: Lisbon- Domestic (São Miguel to Lisbon) flights

• Most taxes and fees

  • Deposits, Service fees and commissions (NON REFUNDABLE)

    
    

NOT INCLUDED

• SCUBA Diving

  • São Miguel dives ($100/2-tank boat dive)

  • Cascais dives ($100/2-tank boat dive)

  • Porto dive ($100/2-tank boat dive)

• 3% processing fee per payment (if paying w/credit card)

• International Airfare

• Transportation (not listed in the itinerary above)

• Pre/Post stay hotel accommodations not listed above

• Gratuities

• Lunches and Dinners on “Free Days”

• Meals/snacks/drinks outside of group meals together.

  • In order to use the per diem, guests must eat with the group during lunch and dinner.

• Additional DAN insurance

• Additional Optional Travel Insurance *DUE AT TIME OF BOOKING- PLEASE REVIEW THE DETAILS OF EACH PLAN THOROUGHLY

  The final price will be on your invoice, please note that the price below is an average price.

  • Worldwide Trip Protector Essentials

  • Worldwide Trip Protector Deluxe

  • Worldwide Trip Protector Platinum

  • Other insurance options are available, if you have questions or want more coverage options, please let us know at time of booking.

SUGGESTED PAYMENT SCHEDULE

There are three payment options available to you. 
*Payment schedule does not include insurance costs. Insurance is due with initial payment. 

Option 1: Full Payment- (SPECIAL OFFER: $100/PP STORE CREDIT!) (ends Nov 30th)
(Most affordable overall)
Full payment (plus insurance)- due upon receipt.

*Please keep in mind, a 3% processing fee will be charged at time of payment if paying with credit card. (this has not been included in the costs.)

Option 2: Two Payments (SPECIAL OFFER: $25/PP STORE CREDIT and no payment plan fee) (ends Nov 30th)
One payment will be due immediately and the second payment will be due no later than February 1, 2025.

(There will be a one time $50 fee per person (in addition to the total trip cost), for this delayed payment option)
NOTE: Not all insurance policy will allow you to purchase coverage after the initial deposit. It is illegal to purchase insurance with the knowledge and intent that you will be changing or canceling your trip.)

*Please keep in mind, a 3% processing fee will be charged at time of payment if paying with credit card. (this has not been included in the costs.)

TWO-PAYMENT PLAN:

Due now: 50% of your total invoice + Insurance (suggested)
Feb 1: Remainder due

 

Option 3: Two Payments- Reduced Deposit (SPECIAL OFFER: No payment plan fee) (ends Nov 30th)
One payment will be due immediately and the second payment will be due no later than February 1, 2025.

(There will be a one time 5% fee per person (in addition to the total trip cost), for this delayed payment option)
NOTE: Not all insurance policy will allow you to purchase coverage after the initial deposit. It is illegal to purchase insurance with the knowledge and intent that you will be changing or canceling your trip.)

*Please keep in mind, a 3% processing fee will be charged at time of payment if paying with credit card. (this has not been included in the costs.)

TWO-PAYMENT PLAN:

Due now: $600/pp + Insurance (suggested)
Feb 1: Remainder due

REGISTRATION 

• A completed registration form (one per person)

  • If you have more than 1 person from the same household going on this trip, please fill out multiple forms.

FINAL PAYMENT

• Payments not received on time will result in reservation cancellation without refund.

• Additional bookings after the final payment deadline may result in higher prices, less availability and additional administrative fees.

• Fee amounts imposed are at the discretion of Zone Travel and Aquatic Adventures.

CANCELLATION

Cancellation in writing must be received by Aquatic Adventures 90 days prior to departure for appropriate refund on the package cost minus the following fees:

• Deposits, Commissions and Travel insurance are non-refundable.

Please note that we must abide by the vendor cancellation policies which varies.

No refund will be issued if any dive activity can’t be accomplished due to reasons beyond its control.

F.A.Q.

Passport/Visa/Traveler information

Click HERE to see what documentation you will need to enter Portugal

What time should I arrive and depart?

Sao Miguel- Part 1

We will have one arrival transfer bus included in the package.
We kindly suggest that you book the flights below - or book flights arriving at a similar time.
(If you arrive 1hr or more outside of the arrival time below, you will be responsible for your own arrival transfer to the hotel. We can assist with this if you prefer, but there will be an additional cost.)

WE SUGGEST THE FOLLOWING FLIGHTS:
Departing flight
Sun, Jul 6 on UA 3587

6:41PM John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH)
8:41 PM Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)

2 hr 24 min layover Newark (EWR)

UA 216
11:05 PM Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)
8:40 AM (arriving July 7) Aeroporto João Paulo II (PDL)

WHAT IF I NEED A ROOMMATE? 

If you would like to have a roommate but don't not have one identified yet, then we will initially only charge the double occupancy rate. Aquatic Adventures Ohio will work to find you a roommate; however, if a roommate cannot be found then you are responsible for paying the single occupancy rate.

Can I go diving just a few times? Or do I have to dive every day?

The first rule of diving (well, one of the first rules) is to call a dive if you aren’t comfortable. This means that if you have signed up to go diving one day and you don’t feel comfortable, please don’t get in the water.
That said, this is a personal choice and not one that will result in a refund of money.

Is scuba diving included in the packages?

No,

We have listed prices for diving in the "Pricing Details" section of the webpage (as well as the top of the Main Tour section). 

It's true that this package is set up differently than most trips- since most dive trips, well... include the diving. (lol)

In 2023 we found that on nearly every trip, we had about half the group of divers that found the schedule to exhausting and wanted fewer dives. The other half wanted MORE diving, (lol) 

Also, we are trying to open some of these trips up to non-divers so that divers can bring their family and friends and everyone can enjoy the same trip. 

(Divers will dive in the morning and then join the non-divers, or those who chose to sit out that day of diving, at lunch and beyond. Of course, if divers want to dive more... they can dive, dive dive as much as they like!) 

So, we have not included ANY diving in the package. All dives are optional and available for purchase with the package. 

We hope this will be a winning combination for everyone. 

The itinerary shows the suggested schedule of diving, and at this time, everyone who has signed up to go on the trip (as a diver) has chosen to include the suggested dive itinerary. 

is the use of reef-safe sunscreen required?

It is not required, but it is strongly recommended to use of reef-friendly sunscreens to help keep the ocean’s corals healthy. Research estimates that 4-6,000 metric tons of sunscreen wash off swimmers into the ocean annually, and most of these sunscreens contain ingredients that cause harmful algae blooms and coral bleaching. Please check your sunscreens and avoid those that contain benzophenon/oxybenzone. To do your part, use biodegradable, natural sunscreens to help protect the reefs.

Look for sunscreens that have active ingredients such as titanium dioxide or zinc oxide.

What are the water temps in PORTUGAL in JULY?

In July, the water temperatures along the coast of Portugal, including the mainland and regions such as the Azores and Madeira, tend to be cool compared to the Caribbean.
On average, the sea temperatures range from approximately 18°C (64°F) along the northern coast of Portugal to 22°C (72°F) in the southern coastal areas like the Algarve.

The waters surrounding the Azores are generally between 21°C (70°F) and 24°C (75°F).

Can we all be in the same dive boat?

There will be one boat for all the divers and snorkelers each day.

Can I go shore diving?

Sao Miguel:

TBD

Lisbon:

TBD

Porto:

TBD

Can I go Night Diving?

Sao Miguel:

Yes, (min. 4 divers) Torch is included €80

Lisbon:

TBD

Porto:

TBD

Can I dive with Nitrox? 

Sao Miguel:

YES. €20/tank

Lisbon:

TBD

Porto:

YES, 10€/tank

I’m a snorkeler, can I join in the fun?

Absolutely!
Snorkelers can also join the dive boat.
The price is TBD

Will there be Dive Lockers/gear storage at the dive shop in Crete each day? 

Divers can leave their gear at the dive center, no charge.
(It's not clear whether there is a locker, but it seems to be secure.) 

The good news is… you won't have to take your gear back and forth each day!

What is the cost for rental equipment?

Sao Miguel

(uses 12L tanks)

FULL KIT DAY (computer, wet suit, boots, fins, mask, BCD and reg. incl) €35

BCD €10
Regulator €10
Dive Computer €10
Full wet suit €10
15L tank (per tank) €10

Fins €7.50
Boots €7.50
Mask €7.50

NITROX (per tank) €20

Lisbon

TBD

Porto

25€/day for full gear

5€/day for each piece needed

What is the Per Diem for lunch and dinners?

To enhance the group dining experience during our tours, we have introduced a per diem policy of €60 per person, per day for meals, excluding "Free Days."

Our decision to implement this measure arose from identifying one of the most significant challenges our guests face when traveling internationally in a group—splitting the bill at the end of a meal. Typically, restaurant servers are reluctant to divide bills, leading to confusion and frustration for everyone involved, especially as it can result in prolonged waiting times.
By issuing a fixed per diem for group meals, we aim to simplify the payment process, allowing you to focus solely on enjoying your culinary experiences together.

In instances where the cost exceeds the €60 allowance, guests will be asked to pay the difference directly to the dive shop via credit card. Please be aware that any unused portion of the per diem will not be refunded.

This approach is designed to streamline meal payments and provide a more enjoyable dining experience for all our travelers.

Can I use my per diem to eat lunch/dinner on my own?

You are welcome to eat your lunches and dinners on your own, apart from the group; however, your per diem will not be transferable.

This means that if you eat with the group, your per diem is applied. If you choose to eat elsewhere on your own, those meals/snacks/drinks are at your own cost.

We will not be able to reimburse you for meals outside of the group.

Can I opt out of the per diem?

No.
Regrettably, opting out of the per diem is not possible, as it is included in the package price. Allowing some guests to opt out would not alleviate the challenges we aim to address, as it could still result in extended checkout times and frustration for restaurant staff, as well as potential inconvenience for the rest of the group.

Can I pay by Zelle?

No. The dive shop does not accept Zelle. You can make your payment by credit card which includes a 3% processing fee.

Can I pay by check?

Yes!

If you would like to avoid the 3% processing fee, you may pay by check. You can drop this off at the front desk of the dive shop or by mailing this directly to the dive shop.

Dive Insurance

Aquatic Adventures of Ohio requires all divers to have some level of dive insurance to travel on all trips. At minimum, you must have hyperbaric recompression chamber coverage- this may be covered by your current insurance, but if not… you’ll need supplemental dive accident insurance.

NOTE: A DAN membership is separate from DAN insurance.

If you don’t have dive insurance yet, check out the link below for plan options.

Proof of dive insurance will be required prior to departure. If no dive insurance has been purchased/proof provided, AAO reserves the right to cancel your reservation without refund.

Travel Insurance

TRAVEL INSURANCE - AVAILABLE FOR ALL USA CITIZENS - DUE WITH INITIAL PAYMENT

Zone Travel LLC strongly suggests purchasing Trip Cancellation insurance. Be sure to check with your healthcare provider as most U.S. medical coverage will not cover you outside of the country.

Insurance costs are based on the total package cost, including air taxes and charges listed under "Included."

Approximate amounts can be given at time of reservation in order to purchase the appropriate amount of insurance.

Worldwide trip protector essentials PLAN:

• Pre-existing Medical Conditions coverage if purchased within 14 days of deposit (other eligibility conditions must also be met)

• Wide range of reasons for trip cancellation or interruption

• Trip Delay and Missed Connection coverage

• Baggage Protection and Travel Accident Protection

• Medical and Evacuation coverage
  

WORLDWIDE TRIP PROTECTOR Deluxe Plan:

• Pre-existing Medical Conditions coverage if purchased within 14 days of deposit (other eligibility conditions must also be met)

• Wide range of reasons for trip cancellation or interruption

• Trip Delay and Missed Connection coverage

• Baggage Protection and Travel Accident Protection

• Medical and Evacuation coverage

WORLDWIDE TRIP PROTECTOR Platinum Plan:

• Pre-existing Medical Conditions coverage if purchased within 21 days of deposit (other eligibility conditions must also be met)

• Wide range of reasons for trip cancellation or interruption

• Trip Delay and Missed Connection coverage

• Baggage Protection and Travel Accident Protection

• Medical and Evacuation coverage