Shore Excursions Group
Private Whale Watching
Whales and dolphins make their home in the ocean around the Azores and when the sea conditions are right you stand a good chance of seeing these animals. When commercial whaling was active here there were several lookout points (known as vigias) along the coast that would alert boat crews when a whale was sighted. Vigias are still in existence today and are used by skilled spotters to find the animals, only now whale watching boats are informed not hunters.
Set off from the marina after all guests are provided a safety briefing conducted by your onboard marine biologist concerning the cetaceans of the Azores, sighting methods, safety rules and the code of ethics for whale watching. Along with your skipper your marine biologist will keep you updated throughout the trip and explain about the species that you may see. In this region you have the wonderful opportunity to observe close to twenty-seven different species of whales and dolphins.
Sperm whales are the resident species and most frequently sighted. They live in the waters around the islands all year round feeding on the giant squid that lurk in the depths of the Atlantic. The months of April and May are generally a good time to see larger whales such as Blue, Fin and Sei whales, while October can be good to spot Humpbacks. The most frequently sighted species of dolphin include Bottlenose, Atlantic Spotted and common dolphins.
Your incredibly special, private tour gives you the chance to meet and admire these marine mammals in their natural habitat. Be confident that all whale watching partners in the Azores adhere to strict guidelines when being around the animals. Boats approach cetaceans only from behind and are not allowed to be any closer than 50 meters. If calves are present, the distance limit is 100 meters. Whales can be quite inquisitive and sometimes take interest in the boats and approach closer, this is perfectly fine and is the animal’s choice.
In just a few short hours this will truly be what could count as the most unforgettable tour of your entire cruise, book your private boat today and experience whales in the Azores!
Please Note: The boat available for this tour accommodates groups of up to 12 guests maximum. Please take this information into consideration when booking.
| Day 1 |
Ponta Delgada, the capital of Sao Miguel Island about 930 miles west of Portugal in the Atlantic, is the gateway to exploring the wonders of the Azores, but it also has plenty of attractions to keep visitors enchanted. With its cobblestone streets, whitewashed buildings, and ornate churches, Ponta Delgada has a timeless charm. Strolling through the city, visitors will encounter landmarks like the Portas da Cidade, a trio of grand arches that stand as a symbol of Ponta Delgada. The city is also home to beautiful churches like Igreja Matriz de Sao Sebastiao, known for its striking architecture and intricate interior details. For a glimpse into local life, the Mercado da Graça is a lively market offering fresh produce, regional delicacies, and handmade crafts. Ponta Delgada is also a hub for discovering the natural wonders of Sao Miguel. The nearby Sete Cidades, a stunning volcanic crater filled with twin lakes, offers breathtaking views and hiking opportunities. Thermal springs like those in Furnas provide a relaxing escape, while whale-watching tours departing from the city’s marina offer an unforgettable experience of encountering marine life in the wild. Visitors can also enjoy the city’s waterfront promenade, lined with cafes and restaurants serving fresh seafood and traditional Azorean dishes. |
| Travel Dates | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
05/03/22 - 05/15/27 |
Starting At $163 |
Get A Quote |
All guests ages 18 years and younger must be accompanied by their parents or legal guardian, or have some form of a written authorization from them. Guests must be in good physical condition in order to participate. Absolutely no guests who have any type of limited mobility, heart conditions, back problems or who are pregnant may participate. This tour is not wheelchair accessible.
