Ilhéu do Topo – Norte

Ilhéu do Topo is a small islet with approximately 20 hectares, located at the eastern tip of São Jorge, just 100 metres from the shore. Despite being so close to the coast, you reach it by boat after about 75 minutes of navigation, as it lies approximately 25 nautical miles from the port of Velas. It is considered one of the best diving spots on the island.

The depths remain moderate, between 12 and 25 metres. Because it is located at the extreme end of the island, the site often experiences strong currents, so it is advisable to have some diving experience before exploring here on rougher days.

Along with Baixa dos Rosais, it is one of the São Jorge sites with the best chances of encountering pelagic fish. Large schools of Atlantic bonito (Sarda sarda), greater amberjack (Seriola rivoliana), white trevally (Pseudocaranx dentex), bluefish (Pomatomus saltator) and sennet (Sphyraena viridensis) regularly pass through the water column; with luck, you may also spot the impressive king mackerel (Acanthocybium solandri), hovering motionless mid-water.

Descending to depths of 20 to 25 metres, the seabed reveals itself to be teeming with life, with grouper (Epinephelus marginatus), hogfish (Bodianus scrofa) and dusky grouper (Mycteroperca fusca) occupying this deeper zone.