38 independent reviews for Blue Whale tour in the Azores
Reviews for Blue Whale tour in the Azores
Edward McDaid review 1 Jun 2026
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Spotting a blue whale on one our boat trips!2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Would highly recommend.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Our holiday was fabulous in all aspects. Many thanks to the operators team.??Sandra Hauserman review 17 May 2026
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Seeing a Blue Whale.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Seasick medication even if you have never had it before. There is a lot of bobbing while waiting for the mammals to emerge. If you walk at a slower pace or with a cane, select one of the hotels near the daily meeting point. Days start early, breakfast was at 7:30 and it was a very brisk walk from Hotel Ponta Delgada.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes. Probably all of those.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
It was all that I could have wanted. It was just the right level comfort and freedom on our own. I would recommend that 3 boat trips are included in the tour and that 2 additional are offered as optional. We had quite a few who struggled with two a day.Anne Jackson review 17 May 2026
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The whale watching trips by rib were superb with a very professional organisation.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
They provide waterproofs for the trips.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Tourism has taken over from whaling times employing local people and science is identifying individual animals and promoting sustainability.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Our local guide Rui was fantastic and made the holiday very special, 5 star rating at least !Colin Crisp review 16 May 2026
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Fantastic and felt very privileged to witness magnificent wildlife in its natural habitat. We saw Blue whales, Sperm whales and several species of dolphins.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
We would highly recommend this experience to anyone visiting the Azores — an extraordinary adventure made even more special by such knowledgeable guides and a deep respect for the ocean and its wildlife.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
The marine biologist provided fascinating insights into whale behavior, conservation and the delicate marine ecosystem around the islands. The whole experience was conservation focused with minimal environmental impact and the well being of the animals was at the heart of the activities. Respectful observation guidelines were followed and ensuring minimal disturbance to the whales and dolphins.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Fantastic it exceeded our expectations in may ways.Janet Carson review 10 May 2026
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Seeing so much unspoilt sea life and the way in which the whale watch company conduct their responsibilities towards both the sea and islands.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Definitely make a trip to some of the other islands….Pico is amazing.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Absolutely…..the guides were all excellent. Very knowledgeable and you could see how much they cared about the sea life but also that we got to see so much as well….a fine balance well executed4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
One of the best we have had.Christine Stockton review 6 May 2026
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Seeing the blue whale.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
It’s more than whale watching - we had two very informative talks, were invited to meet a campaigner against plastic litter who was walking the coasts, had a day trip to the thermal waters and beautiful botanic garden of Furnas. And free time to explore Ponta Delgada including another fabulous botanic garden. Need good strong shoes, swim suit and beach shoes, a mac to carry just in case. We took advantage of trip to stay another three weeks to travel to 6 other islands - all very different.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Azores is already so environmentally conscious - I think the local people reinforced the need to care for nature in us the visitors Ate in local restaurants, coffees in local cafes, shopped in local shops.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Really good.William Mainholm review 2 May 2026
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Seeing blue whales.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
A mixture is good, but another time I would use ribs more than catamarans. There are likely to be more whales at Pico, but we saw plenty at Sao Miguel and the countryside is stunning in parts and well worth touring, so perhaps mix the main island with Pico if you can.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Better proportionally than the enormous cruise ships that come in pretty much every day. The team is certainly interested in conservation and some valuable work is done alongside the tourism. It is unclear if we affect the whales at all, but it doesn't seem so. There was one occasion when another company seemed to be bending the rules, but generally the whole thing is well conducted. The whale watch team is very good; enthusiastic, helpful and knowledgeable - nothing is ever faultless - and look to be the best of those operating as well as by far the biggest, more lookouts, etc..4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Seeing these majestic creatures, especially the biggest animal ever to have lived, is an experience never to be forgotten and should be on any thinker's bucket list.Chris Clough review 17 May 2026
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Fantastic to see blue whales, sperm whales and loads of dolphins. Day trip to Furnas was really good too. Ponta Delgada is a really great place to stay - lovely little town with a surprising number of excellent restaurants and bars.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Be prepared for boat trips to be cancelled due to bad weather. We managed four out of five scheduled trips, which by all accounts was pretty good going. There's very little flexibility in the schedule, so you may well find yourselves with more free time than you might expect.There's plenty to explore on the island though. Buses are good, there are a few taxis available, or you could hire a car and explore a bit further. Bring a warm hat for the boat. More heavy-duty gear like waterproof trousers is unnecessary though, as all tours are on large boats where you can go inside to shelter if needs be (despite the description, this is not a "small group tour" by any stretch - we were on boats with 60-100 other people every time). Do bring a decent waterproof coat though, for on and off the boat, because the weather is bonkers - it will go from bright sunshine to monsoon in a matter of seconds with little or no warning!3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Our guide was local and obviously very proud of the island and its culture/history. Good to see that all the income the tour operators get from tourists is put back into research, carried out by all the marine biologists that staff the boats.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
We had a really great week and thoroughly enjoyed the boat trips. Wonderful to see some massive whales, and we got the impression that you're pretty much guaranteed plenty of dolphin sightings. Things were a little chaotic at times, but all the guides and marina biologists are all really friendly, knowledgable, and keen to help with anything. We were slightly disappointed to be on large boats with big groups, frequently obnoxious Americans from cruise ships, but that's a minor quibble really!Angela McNamee review 16 May 2026
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Actually the first sighting of the blue whale.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Review accommodation culture especially solo travellers who like to meet new people in a social environment.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
I achieved what I wanted which was interaction with whales. However when weather prevents that the island had limited resources due to size from a tour perspective. Three tours and it’s seen.Deirdre Flanagan review 10 May 2025
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Seeing blue whales.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Don't have high expectations as the weather can thwart your plans.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
I think the company were excellent in their love of and respect for the marine animals. The tourist trips fund their research and conservation efforts.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Fantastic, magical, felt really well taken care of.Penelope Weaver review 10 May 2025
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Seeing Whales.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Don’t expect to see whales as you do on tv. They are in the water and mostly submerged.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Exceptional.David Alexaner review 10 May 2025
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Going out on a RIB and seeing a baby Sperm Whale.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Be prepared for disruptions but don't let them get you down. Weather and nature play by their own rules, but our guide did everything she could to save the trip.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Certainly helps to provide jobs and supports the local economy. However, increasing tourist numbers will always put presure on the environment and wildlife. Unfortunately not all tour operators respect the wildlife the same way our team did.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Really enjoyed the over all experience. Marina Atlántico was a good and convenient hotel, with helpful staff who resolved any problems. Definitely needed a positive mindset to make the best of what was a challenging week weather wise. Only managed three trips out to sea but the guides and experts did their best under what were also very difficult circumstances for them. Saw dolphins on every trip and whales on 2 out of 3. Most local people were really nice, our group was great and primarily rode the disappointments helping to keep each others spirits high.Anna Murphy review 4 May 2025
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Definitely the chance to go out to sea and view the marine life!2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Take warmer clothes than you expect to need!3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes, the biologists were clear that we should all support marine conservation and choose responsible wildlife viewing over captive settings. It was good that islanders were our guides and we benefitted from a wealth of local knowledge4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
It was a very big experience; not always what we expected but we feel we got the maximum out of the week.Lorraine Singh review 17 May 2024
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Seeing the humpback whales! We had gone out watching for whales three times and we had seen lots of dolphins and briefly seen sei whales. The dolphins are amazing and love swimming alongside the boats. We booked an extra whale outing on a RIB boat and this time were lucky to see the two humpback whales for some time. They come up to breathe for a short while and then can go underwater for several minutes (something I didn't know beforehand). These whales are migratory and are passing through so don't hang around to socialise! The boat company are keen to educate us and manage our expectations. There seems to be strict guidelines in keeping their distance and proximity of boats to whales. There is a classroom at the boat base where can read about the marine life. They also have a board with details of the day's and week's sightings.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
To be prepared that it is not certain you will see whales - read up the best months to visit the Azores to see the different species. However the experience of being at sea and seeing the beautiful coastline and seeing other marine life is amazing. I fell in love with dolphins when seeing them happy in their natural habitat. Give the RIB boats a try for a different experience. Wear something on head that won't blow away! I found the hood of my thin waterproof jacket was best. Make sure your phone / camera is attached to you - perhaps also in a waterproof case. Make sure you have upgraded your phone so you can take the best photos for a once in a lifetime opportunity. Also the boat company always have official photographers onboard and you can go on their Facebook to see the photos. I am not sure but I believe there are also passwords to get that make it easier to download their photos. Check it out with travel/ boat company. We got a password when we had our extra directly booked trip.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
It benefited local people - the boat company staff are all from the island. We visited places (on the day tour and individually) which benefits the local economy - restaurants and shops, tea factory, thermal pool, gardens. It seemed to be an environmentally conscious island and is perhaps watching the impact of tourism carefully. The islands lend themselves to gentle tourism like walkers and nature lovers.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Overall it was brilliant. The hotel was clean and spacious. Great views of the harbour. Close to amenities. Lovely town to walk about in. Super friendly people.The day trip to the thermal pool and more was excellent. We visited a new country, learnt about the culture and were surrounded by a beautiful environment. The crowning glory was in seeing the whales.John Nightingale review 13 May 2024
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The boat trips. Seeing many different species of whale, dolphin and other sea going animals.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Pico is a small island and if the weather is bad you may not get out on the boats. Make sure you bring lots to keep yourselves occupied.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes. The tour operator are leaders in ethical whale watching and the local people need the cash injection provided by tourism.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Fantastic.Jim Kerr review 13 May 2024
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Where to start everything went great flights, pick up at the airport, the hotel was fantastic breakfast/ bedroom. The hotel was only 5 minutes walk to the boat. My flight was at 21.50 and I was able to have a shower before departing for the airport. (Watch getting in and out of the lift there are no door sensors to stop the doors hitting you). Now for the good stuff about the holiday meeting other members of the group at the welcoming dinner with Carina our FANTASTIC tour rep. The boats we were on the catamaran but some of the group booked extra trips on the ribs. We saw dolphins whales on all our 5 package trips. I booked another 3 boat trips but my last trip was FANTASTIC there were 3 ribs and 2 boats watching a humpback whale and her calf the whales played with for about 1 hour swimming diving around and inbetween the boats.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Pack a good waterproof jacket/trousers. We had good weather and I was able to go on the boat wearing a tee shirt and a light jacket. BUT on one trip we had a VERY heavy rain shower.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes I think its very beneficial to the local people giving employment. The number of boat is strictly licenced and how they approach the whales not to frighten the whales. The conservation of the whales is helped be people enjoying the sight them in there natural environment and not in zoos or hunted4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Responsible travel go above and beyond in their efforts to make your holiday of a life timeFiona Hecker review 12 May 2024
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
We were lucky enough to see a blue whale2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Take sea sickness tablets and bands. Prepare for sun rain and the cold. Be prepared for very changeable weather that can effect sea conditions and result in cancelled trips..3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes generating income and sustaining eco tourism4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
We had a fabulous holiday. I can’t recommend enough if you are looking for a whale and dolphin watching trip. I would definitely travel with responsible travel again. Thanks to Carina our tour guide and all the staff at the operator ??Paul Eastoe review 11 May 2024
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
We were very lucky and had a fantastic viewing of a mother and calf Blue Whale. Truly amazing.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Spend as much time out on the water as possible.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
We were pleased to help towards the local economy and the money also goes towards valuable research into the environment and local wildlife.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Absolutely fantastic holiday. A truly memorable experience. All the more because we know how very fortunate we were to see so many whales with the Blue Whales the cherry on top. Brilliant.Kellie sanders review 11 May 2024
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Seeing the marine life.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Do your own research about when blue whales are in Pico. We were told on arrival by Whale experts that it was highly unlikely that we would see blue whales which was the only reason we booked this tour.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Partly.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
It didn't fully live up to the marketing material.Read the operator's response here:
Dear Kellie,
I am sorry you were disappointed not to see Blue whales. Our marketing material says we book
trips during the migration time when Blue whales, Fin whales pass the islands which is from
March till june. We do not guarantee sightings of Blue Whales, only giving you great
opportunities to see them at the best times with best sea conditions based on previous years
sightings. Blue whales were seen by our boat company the day before you arrived and I just
had the sightings report for the week after you left and Lynn , the Marine biologist had 2
sightings a few days ago! I am sorry you week was unlucky. We do not book trips early in the season when there can be more blues around as as sea conditions can be rough and you might not go out to sea at all or feel very unwell on rough seas. You had a beautiful encounter with 2 huge Fin whales (the second largest whale) and you saw several giant sperm whales who are resident in the Azores a well as 5 species of dolphin, turtles and other marine life. We've arranged the program so you could take all your pre booked trips to sea and an extra trip. The guides comment that you were "unlikely" to see Blue whales was not a good phrase to say to people eager to see blue whales and untrue. I am sincerely sorry you were told this early on. "Less likely" would be more appropriate wording as Blue whales are critically endangered so there are less of them than the other species around the Azores. I wish you the very best on future holidays and that one day you may get to see the mighty blue whale!
jon whitta review 8 Jun 2023
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
All of it. Had such an amazing time.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Just go with it. Nature is unpredictable. whales and weather will do what they want3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Top marks all roundPeter kudelka review 13 May 2023
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Definitely the whales , especially the blue mother and baby and th 3 sei whales.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Sit on the steps at the front of the boat right from the first trip3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes, obviously it supported jobs but the welfare of the animals seemed to be the first consideration. I also loved that the young staff all seemed just as excited as we were with every sighting.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Well organised. Special thanks to Gaynor who answered emails promptly over the 4 years it took me to actually be able to take this trip and was a constant and reassuring presence throughout. I think the success of all the arrangements is due mainly to herMary Monro review 20 May 2023
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Wonderful to see 3 species of whales and 3 species of dolphins up close. We also very much enjoyed our visit to Furnas and the amazing botanical garden there.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Great trip, well organised, nice accommodation and good support on the ground. If you get seasick, go prepared. A couple of days were quite rough and, although the staff on the boat are excellent, it must be a miserable experience if you are sick. On the plus side, there are professional photographers on board so if you can't use your camera (due to the swell) or don't take one, it doesn't matter.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
I hope so.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Excellent except for the additional 1/2 day tour to Lagoa da Fogo, which was poor value.Jacqueline Dunkerton review 28 May 2022
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Seeing the whales2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
I would say don't be afraid of booking zodiac trip for sightseeing. We met many who went on the catamaran because they were worried about the zodiac but the zodiac is very comfortable and very safe3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
It certainly benefited local people who who rely on the tourist industry. The marinebiologists on the boat were also very keen to point out their gratitude for people seeing the animals in this way rather than going to visit captured marine life4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
We have some bad weather unfortunately but on an island in the Azores it has to be expected. Even with bad weather we still went out on the boat and ssw wildlife including whales so it was excellent.Alex Duckworth review 25 May 2022
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Going out on the boat not knowing what to expect and finally seeing 2 blue whales.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Do take warm and waterproof clothing for the boat trips it gets quite chilly at sea.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
I hope that my holiday did contribute to the local economy in some small way and that the local people I spoke to will have enjoyed my company.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
It was one of the best holidays I have experienced and I have traveled a lot. The scenery, people, food and beautiful gardens were memories to cherish. Only hope I will be able to return and visit more of the islands. Thank you for a wonderful holiday.Paula Turner review 22 May 2022
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
This was an incredible holiday. 10/10. Best bit was definitely whale watching and education from an outstanding marine biologist.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Stay at the Colleggio hotel it is much nicer and in a better location.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Outstanding value for money and a fantastic experience- incredibly well organised and hosted by lovely and knowledgeable people.David Taylor review 11 May 2022
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The whales and dolphins2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Was as advertised, would recommend this operator.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
I believe it helps the local economy and the way the tours are conducted is done with great respect for the whales in keeping distance and not ‘hounding’ them.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Excellent.Mike Jenkinson review 1 May 2022
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Seeing whales.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
You are dealing with Mother Nature,events wise as well as weather.schedules can only be programmed so far-be patient.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes for sure.didn’t seem to be much industrial activity other than tourist related.mostly local employment.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
9 out of ten. Park hotel breakfast hot menu was repetitive and didn’t cater much for English palate.continentals did ok.I didn’t see fried eggs or bacon all week.cold choice was fine I would have to say.Barbara Potter review 20 Apr 2022
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
spa treatment at hotel2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
don't go3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
No I didn't feel welcome and found the local people unfriendly4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
ZeroRead the operator's response here:
Dear Barbara
I am so sorry to hear of the many of the challenges you endured. Bad weather is one thing but our partners usually excel at customer service so I am sorry your experience was that they were not so helpful or friendly. I am really glad you have given such clear feedback which we shall certainly ensure is heard by people who can ensure this does not go unchecked.
Things usually go so smoothly, So this is extremely rare. The directions to the boat base have worked fine for all other guests making their way to the boat operators, who are always so helpful. However after you called us it seems you found your way. We don’t have our logo at the harbour but the welcome letter has a pictire of the logo. Also you did have their phone number and address. It is 5 minutes from the hotel and sometimes in a new country finding things can be a bit confusing. Also I am sorry your voucher took time to find but again, after you called us it seemed they did find it. They had a huge number of guests over Easter so things are a bit slower.
I sincerely hope you can look back and have some happy memories and some of the difficulties fade. You certainly had a lot of challenges and I am sincerely sorry to hear about it. It sounds like it was special to be together as a family with the children showing resilience and positivity with the weather challenges,
Kind regards and I sincerely hope future holidays are really relaxing and a lot easier!
Nicholas Fletcher review 9 Jun 2021
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The whole holiday was fantastic but “being a marine biologist for the day” has to go down as the highlight. We were lucky enough to have Mafalda lead our trip and having met her two days previously on a group RIB excursion we knew exactly what to expect from her. I can honestly say I’ve never met anybody who is as passionate about their chosen profession and she imparted her knowledge of cetaceans in captivating fashion. Seeing the whales and dolphins up close is one thing but gaining an insight into what the marine biologists are doing on a daily basis and being able to learn from them gives the experience an extra dimension. It was absolutely fascinating and well worth the extra money!2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Definitely take sun tan lotion with you on the boat along with your fleece and jacket. The weather is very changeable so make sure you’re prepared for it. With regards COVID the island are very well organised with their testing process so don’t let it put you off travelling.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Absolutely!! Many people on the island work in the tourism industry and if it continues to be done as sustainably as it is now then it can certainly benefit the local people and economy in the long term without having a detrimental effect on the ecology of the islands. The local government has put in place regulations to preserve the natural beauty of the island, these include designated walking trails at beauty spots with other areas off limits, the banning of swimming in certain lakes and strictly limiting the number of whale watching operators licenses they issue. All these measures will help to preserve what is there now for future generations to enjoy. I don’t think our holiday reduced environmental impacts because we had to fly to get there but you can offset that against what your money goes towards when you arrive on Sao Miguel. Any money they do make from tourism is ploughed into expanding the geothermal power plant which one day could provide enough green energy for everyone on Sao Miguel. Couple that with the fact that every time a boat goes out the marine biologists on board are logging exactly what cetaceans are seen, their location and if possible their identity. This information is then collated and shared with other marine biologists around the world to help them build up a picture of the global whale population, its health and their migration patterns.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
The memories we have of this holiday will last a lifetime. Everyone we met on the island was extremely welcoming and the landscape and wildlife truly breath taking. I would rate it a 10/10.Barry Brown review 19 May 2019
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
All of it2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
The island plane service is aweful3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Supported local people4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
WonderfulRead the operator's response here:
Dear Barry
Thank you so much for your positive review and so glad you had a wonderful holiday on the more remote Azores Islands. We are aware there was some flight disruption last week which was very inconvenient for our guests and actually not something that our guests have experienced before. The local airline will compensate you and if you need any help from us for this please get in touch. They provided accommodation and meal vouchers where needed. I am glad this travel disruption did not take away from your enjoyment of the holiday and that you managed to do all your planned trip to sea.
Best wishes
Wendy Cadman review 28 May 2018
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
the blue whales2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Check out what you're going to get before choosing a dish in a restaurant - you often don't get what you expect!3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Definitely4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
A superb experience, and we would have changed hardly anything once we were there, although we had big problems with the flights both ways.Jean Tuck review 7 May 2018
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Way above expectations! Whale Watch Azores (chosen via Responsible Travel) is excellent. Informative, even as to the exact moment to click the camera shutter, skilled in being in the right place at the right time, positioning the boat for everyone's advantage, including the whale's, knowing the whales' routines, and even helping organise the non-water days. Over the 4 days spent at sea we saw 50 !!! whales (counting a couple of temporarily unattended sperm whale calves) and a similar number of dolphins! All memorable! The island tour before the main holiday started was good too.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Follow the given instructions regarding things needed/to pack. Very helpful.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes, meals in local restaurants, tours run by local people, the whale-watching tour group that was used definitely supports conservation as much research is done as part of it. Care was taken to reduce impact on the whales by the way the trip was run, and on the environment by the avoidance of plastic bottles etc.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Brilliant and memorable.Barbara and James Knight review 1 Jul 2018
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Seeing the whales and dolphins in their own environment.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Make sure that the hotel is in the right location for your needs and offers the required facilities, eg. good breakfasts and a decent restaurant. I have a mobility problem and I would have preferred accommodation nearer to the harbour and centre of the town. Maybe a choice of hotels could be offered. Do try the recommended restaurants.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
I believe that the whale and dolphin watching must be a major attraction for people visiting the Azores and bring a financial benefit for the local people. I think that many people attracted to this type of holiday will be more aware of environmental impacts of tourism and would be keen to support the conservation of the sea and its inhabitants around the islands, as well as the beautiful, unspoiled landscapes.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
We really enjoyed our holiday and it was totally different from any previous holiday. We would have liked a better hotel, but it did have some good points, such as the balcony and view. We would give the holiday a good rating overall. We found staff at the hotel and the operators very kind and helpful. We would definitely consider another holiday in the Azores and would recommend Responsible Travel.Read the operator's response here:
Many thanks for the wonderful review!
I am so sorry that we did not know about your mobility problems as we do have a selection of hotels on the harbour and would have offered you one of those if we had known. Our web site describes the location of the hotels and you were given the exact distance to the boats with a map. However I am glad you were able to take short and cheap taxis to help you.
I am so pleased the rest of the holiday was enjoyable and the boat was easy to move around with mobility issues offering you great views of the whales.
Amanda
Mike Segal review 9 Jun 2018
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Seeing such a large numb er of whales and dolphins2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Be prepared for very changeable weather and occasionally rough seas. Also, if you're lucky you will see a lot of whales but don't expect to see very much of any of them, just fins, backs and tails. It would be great to see their heads and their eyes, but that is a very rare event. Dolphins are much more photogenic.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
I'm sure that locals benefited from our custom in hotels and restaurants, and I know that our trip helped to finance tconservation work on whales and dolphins4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
A great trip, it was exciting to see so many huge and rare animals, and it was also very interesting to visit the Azores, see and learn about their extraordinary geology.Trish Byrne review 21 May 2017
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
It was all very exciting, but the very best part was when we found a blue whale and a fin whale swimming side by side. This allowed us to clearly see the differences between them - almost as if they were doing it for our benefit. I was also happy that the whales seemed to be undisturbed by our boat. I hope that's true.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Definitely bring a peaked cap that stays on your head - the glare from the sea can give you a headache. Bring everything you're told to bring in the information leaflet. The weather can change in a second.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
It certainly benefited local boat owners and restaurant owners. I don't know if it reduced environmental impacts, but Lisa, our group leader, photographs all the whales for identification purposes, which I guess supports conservation. Also, I suppose the fact that whale-watching is a viable tourism model gives local populations an incentive to look after the seas.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Excellent. Great experience.Tim Hall review 1 Jun 2016
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Very difficult to say as there were so many memorable moments: seeing five sperm whales "socialising" together and swimming in a perfect line, almost managing to synchronise their "blows", catching a great picture of the tail fin of the massive blue whale, seeing the huge side fins of the humpback just under the water giving them an eerie blue colour, or probably the best of all seeing first a pod of c10 orca cavorting in front of us, the male one with a massive fin of more than 2 metres in height, and then about an hour later seeing either the same animals again or a different pod, this time as two smaller groups. This is not to mention all the amazing pods of dolphins we saw, common, bottlenose, risso and striped plus false orca which we did not even know existed until the scientist on board identified them.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Take some warm clothes including a waterproof/windproof top coat, preferably things that can be layered as, despite the sun, the wind can be very cold when on board especially when the boat is going quite fast tracking down a sighting which may be several miles away out at sea. Take high level sun block.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
This holiday definitely supported conservation; the information that our scientist on board was gathering was being fed into international databases capturing details about migratory whales and photo-matching individuals. Local people were employed to help run the holiday and without exception everyone in our group ate at a variety of local restaurants. The local economy benefited by members of the group buying souvenirs and taking part in local tours when not out at sea.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
We would rate our holiday somewhere in between 4 and 5 stars; not sure we could honestly say we were "reborn" but this has certainly been the holiday of a lifetime. We were very lucky with the sitings we had; literally being more or less in the middle of the Atlantic, which is vast, and being able to "find" these creatures is amazing in itself; the scientist on board was very knowledgeable, friendly and keen to share her knowledge. The animals' well being was always the most important factor and so we did not stay long at each siting to allow the whales the freedom to continue with their journey. Overall the holiday was brilliantly managed.Janet Gaten review 28 May 2016
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Whales, whales and more whales, plus lots of dolphins.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Take warm clothes for the boat and travel motion remedies as the swell can be quite something3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Boat company were very responsible when viewing the animals in order to minimise their stress. All the staff were local to the area.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Excellent experience on all counts, good animal sitings, good hotel and beautiful islands.alice caldwell review 28 May 2015
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Seeing so many whales and dolphins, the group I was with, the fantastic hotel I stayed in2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Pick the exclusive trip, I think there is a bonding when there are only 12 people, compared if there were a lot more people. Also you get longer at sea, and ask for Horta, it was so beautiful, also for all that you get, it works out so cheap, I don't understand how they can give you so much for that price?3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Supported conservation4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
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