On September 27, the island of Faial will celebrate World Tourism Day with two unique experiences promoted by the Faial Sustainable Tourism Association (ATSF) within the framework of the European ecoRoute project, dedicated to the discovery of the Azores’ underwater cultural and natural heritage.

The program includes a dive at the Archaeological Cannon Deposit at 10:00 a.m. and a guided snorkel tour of the Main shipwreck at 2:00 p.m.

The Archaeological Cannon Deposit is the first underwater archaeological reserve in the Azores, created between 2008 and 2012. Located in the Bay of Entre-os-Montes at a depth of 18 meters, it is a true underwater sculpture garden, featuring artillery pieces dating from the 17th to 19th centuries. This site was designed to allow underwater cultural heritage to be known, protected, and experienced in situ, combining the preservation of historical memory with new forms of tourist enjoyment.

The Main shipwreck, grounded in 1892 in Porto Pim Bay, is today one of Faial’s most accessible and emblematic underwater sites. Built in 1868, the vessel met its end after a fire on board and still lies in front of the old whaling factory, now home to the Porto Pim Aquarium. Resting at just 4 to 5 meters deep, it is an easily accessible wreck, ideal for beginner divers or snorkelers, and an important historical witness to 19th-century Atlantic trade.

These initiatives are organized in partnership with NOVA University Lisbon/CHAM and Norberto Diver, within the framework of the ecoRoute European project, which aims to foster sustainable tourism and promote the value of underwater and coastal heritage in the partner regions.

Beyond Faial, ecoRoute partners in Madeira (CEAM) and Martinique (APAA) will also promote coastal and underwater clean-up activities and community awareness initiatives. This collaboration between partners reinforces a coordinated commitment to sustainability, marine heritage protection, and community engagement.

Registration is mandatory and can be completed until September 25 via email at [email protected].