Whale watching in the Azores

Description of Whale watching in the Azores

With so many species of whales and dolphins surrounding this archipelago, this is one of the best places in the world to witness these marine mammals up close, with sightings on 99 percent of whale watching trips to sea. April to September is peak whale watching season in the Azores, with spring and early summer the best time to spot the blue whale – the mightiest mammal on the planet.

In May and June, baleen whales including blue, sei, fin and humpback whales pass through these waters on their annual migration to their summer feeding grounds in the north Atlantic. They may also be spotted here in July and August. Resident sperm whales, pilot whales and orca are frequently seen along with several species of dolphin, manta rays, sea turtles and sea birds; this is one of the world’s most diverse and abundant gatherings of marine life!

Our tours

Whale watching in the Azores can be done on the main island of Sao Miguel (direct flights from the UK) or the remote islands (transit via Lisbon), and you can choose to take three or more dolphin and whale watching boat tours during your holiday. Although we have set departure dates, these are not group tours; each guest can plan their time independently. You have a whale watching itinerary which you can add island tours as you wish. The boat operators are highly knowledgeable and skilled in tracking and observing the whales, while marine biologists onboard the boats are on hand to answer any questions and give audio visual presentations about these incredible species. We use a range of boats, from large catamarans which are more comfortable and stable, with high vantage points and onboard toilets, to rigid hulled inflatables (RIBs) which are smaller, nippier and put you right in the thick of the action. You’ll certainly feel the sea spray!

One of the reasons that whale watching holidays in the Azores are so successful is because of the Vigia – land based lookouts who can spot the whales up to 30km away and direct the boats towards them.

Accommodation

Our guests have a choice of great value, 4* accommodation in harbour towns. They have gorgeous views across the oceans and mountains, and facilities include swimming pools, gyms, saunas and WiFi. Breakfast is served buffet-style, and discounts are available for children sharing with their parents. In the evenings, you can stroll around town and try out the superb Azorean and international restaurants.

Your guide

Your whale watching tours in the Azores are all hosted by local guides as well as a marine biologist – all speak excellent English and have plenty of experience leading these trips in the Azores. Formal (audio visual talk by marine biologist at our boat base by the harbour) and informal (on the boat) presentations and talks on the local marine life will be offered by your guides. You will learn a lot about dolphins and whales from these stimulating, educational presentations. This combines well with seeing these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

Other activities

Away from the boat, your time is your own. We can also book tours for you to explore the rugged inland landscapes of the Azores such as adventure jeep tours, hiking trips and bird watching excursions. Bathe in volcanic hot springs and see bubbling hot geysers. Get active with kayaking, mountain biking and paddle boarding on the islands stunning lakes. This is an independent holiday, so indulge yourself as you wish!