Dolphin watching in the Azores

The Azores, a volcanic archipelago in the Atlantic, are widely regarded as one of the best places in the world for dolphin watching holidays. Many species of marine mammals are either resident in these waters, or pass through them between April and September every year. Species of dolphin that you’re likely to see here include common dolphins, which can number 100 or more in a single pod, Atlantic spotted, striped, Risso’s and bottlenose. Bottlenose dolphins are the largest, and the most likely to be targeted by dolphinariums, so the joy of seeing them in the wild is all the greater.

The most popular Azores islands for dolphin watching trips include Pico, Faial and São Miguel, all of them once home to whaling communities that have now transformed themselves into places where cetaceans are protected and celebrated instead. One key remnant of the whaling industry is the vigia towers that dot the coastlines of the islands. They were once employed for hunting, but now dedicated and expert spotters use them to direct the dolphin watching boats by radio – some are so practised they can identify an individual species far out to sea. This means that, although dolphin watching trips are always weather dependent and involve a degree of luck, you’re never just heading out with fingers crossed. And naturally, the more boat trips that feature in your holiday itinerary, the more chances you have of an encounter.

Dolphin watching trips will often be accompanied by a marine biologist able to add an extra dimension to what you’re seeing with a fascinating live commentary about dolphin behaviours, ecology and conservation efforts. Boats use hydrophones so you can hear the dolphins chatter beneath the surface. For a more in-depth take, there are also dolphin conservation holidays available that see you taking part in data gathering and research. Another option is to opt for a trip where you’re only out at sea a few times, with the rest of your holiday spent exploring the Azores in other ways such as walking, wine tasting, mountain biking or jeep tours. All of these present opportunities to see dolphins, as well as whales of course, from land using the many vigia towers on the coast.