Whale and Dolphin Watching in the Azores

The Azores are a highly sought-after destination for nature and adventure holidays. Besides the stunning natural beauty, it is one of the top destinations for whale watching and swimming with dolphins.

For those who enjoy whale watching, the Azores is a paradise, as it is home to over 20 different species of cetaceans, including both resident and migratory species. This ecosystem has exceptional characteristics, with one-third of the existing whales found in the Azores region.

During spring, you can observe the migration of the three largest animals in the world: the blue whale, the fin whale, and the sei whale. They travel from the south, where they have spent the winter and given birth, passing through the Azores between March and June on their way to the North Atlantic Ocean in search of food during summer.

Whale watching in the Azores occurs year-round, and it feels as natural to appreciate nature as it is to welcome the animals that are always free in their habitat, feeling at home.

The Azores are internationally considered one of the best places in the world for observing cetaceans, due to its unique ecosystem and the respect shown towards the animals, which are treated and admired by everyone who visits.

The Cetaceans

Whale and dolphin watching attracts people of all ages from around the world. Summer is the best time to see migratory whales, as well as dolphins, because this is when there are many more species and larger groups jumping and showing off their performances in the ocean.

Migratory whales love to pass through the Azores in summer as they journey from the southern wintering grounds to the north for more food. Moreover, during this period, the waters of the Azores are full of their favorite menu items, plankton and krill. In addition to these species, there are also resident species, allowing for visits at any time of the year.

Whale Watching Locations

Whale and dolphin watching is an activity that can be enjoyed throughout the archipelago. It is very easy to find whales and dolphins in all Azorean waters, which is why there are various tours departing from different points on the islands. There are also several tour operators offering this service, always respecting the environment and the animals.

It is almost impossible to embark on a tour without spotting a whale or dolphin, and the confidence among operators is so high that many even promise to refund your money if no animals are sighted.

Once you board the boat, the great adventure begins as you explore the vastness of the ocean and encounter these enchanting creatures. The key point in observing cetaceans in the Azores is to respect them and not interfere with their marine life.

Approximately three hours of observation takes place aboard the vessels operated by local providers, giving you the chance to connect with nature and let the excitement take over, while also keeping your camera ready to capture every detail of the excursion.

Swimming with Dolphins

For those who enjoy swimming with dolphins, it is guaranteed to be a unique experience that brings extreme happiness, emotional release, relaxation, and a deep connection with nature. It is ensured that no harm comes to the animals, and it fosters a greater bond between humans and dolphins, who are said to be very happy to share their space with visitors.

The Activity

The whale watching activity in the Azores occurs year-round, with some times having more species than others due to certain animals migrating through the region.

Whale watching can be done throughout the archipelago, but the islands of Pico, Faial, and São Miguel stand out in this activity.

This activity is suitable for anyone, provided they have the necessary conditions to be at sea. For very young children, it may be a bit uncomfortable due to the boat’s motion, but it all depends on the common sense of the participants.

It is recommended to use the services of a specialized local company, as they will provide all instructions for the trip and usually have guides, often biologists, who share various information along the way.

Book the Activity Online

You can make your online reservation for whale watching and/or swimming with dolphins. Since this is a highly sought-after activity, we recommend reserving your whale watching activity in advance. Check our suggestions:

• Whale and Dolphin Watching on São Miguel Island – Half Day
• Swimming with Dolphins on São Miguel Island – Half Day
• Whale and Dolphin Watching | Lajes do Pico | Half Day
• Swimming with Dolphins | Lajes do Pico | Half Day

See also: Companies in the Azores offering Whale Watching activities

Recommendations

Here are some essential recommendations for a successful trip:

• For those unaccustomed to the sea, it is advisable to take motion sickness medication to ensure a more comfortable and enjoyable experience.
• As the trip can last up to three hours, it’s important to bring water and light snacks such as fruits and energy bars.
• It is also recommended to use sunscreen and warm clothing, as the temperature may change during the trip, along with a hat and sunglasses.
• For those wishing to see the animals up close and observe their details, binoculars can enhance the viewing experience.
• Bringing a camera is a must, as this moment is unique, and it’s not every day you get the chance to experience it. Capturing the grandeur and beauty of these animals is a memory to treasure forever.

Safety and Prohibitions

To ensure a pleasant experience for both participants and the animals, it’s important to adhere to safety guidelines and avoid certain actions to ensure the success of the activity and the preservation of species:

• It is essential to wear life jackets throughout the trip.
• The cetaceans swimming in the Azorean seas are protected species and deserve respect; therefore, it is prohibited to pollute the sea, make noise, feed the animals, or disturb them.

Curiosities

Here are some interesting facts about this activity worth highlighting:

• Most whale watching tours are led by guides who are also qualified biologists, providing explanations about the trip and the animals.
• For those seeking activities away from the ocean, there are various museums and interpretation centers available on several islands, especially on Pico and Faial.
• For those wanting to observe cetaceans from different angles, there are whale-watching towers located at various strategic points on the islands. These points were once used for whaling but have since been restored and now serve as vantage points for curious visitors to spot cetaceans on the horizon with panoramic views.

Miradouro da Vigia das Baleias – Algarvia Nordeste
Fotografia de Tiago Pacheco

Watch the video here

The Azores provide all the conditions for whale watching while protecting and preserving the species, ensuring that the activity continues without altering the habitat and lives of these animals. For those seeking a different and captivating experience, this is a great option.