Dive-site story
Situated along the volcanic formations of Ilhéus das Cabras off Terceira Island, Gruta dos Ratões is celebrated for its dramatic submarine topography and frequent elasmobranch encounters. Divers navigate through wide volcanic caverns and arches that open out into the blue ocean, where light beams pierce through crevices in the ceiling. The surrounding seafloor features a mix of basaltic boulders and sand patches, creating shelter for resident groupers and hunting grounds for cruising pelagics.
Congregations of eagle rays and round stingrays hovering near cavern openings and over sandy bottoms
Expansive volcanic arches, swim-throughs, and cavern chambers sculpted by ancient lava flows
Clear Atlantic waters allowing dramatic natural lighting effects inside the rocky passages
Encounters with large dusky groupers and patrolling pelagic predators
Location
Use the map to plan with your operator and confirm the exact entry point on the day.
Seasonality
Summer and early autumn deliver warmer ocean temperatures, superior visibility, and the highest concentration of rays.
Marine life
| Species | Likelihood | J | F | M | A | M | J | J | A | S | O | N | D |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Common Eagle RayMyliobatis aquila | Common | ||||||||||||
| Round StingrayTaeniura grabata | Common | ||||||||||||
| Dusky GrouperEpinephelus marginatus | Common | ||||||||||||
| Almaco JackSeriola rivoliana | Common | ||||||||||||
| Mediterranean MorayMuraena helena | Common |
Marine forecast
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