Whale watching in the Azores is a must-do when visiting these islands. Located in the middle of the Atlantic, the Azores offer some of the best whale-watching opportunities in the world. While certain times of the year are better than others, you’re almost guaranteed to spot marine wildlife on your visit. I spent a month on São Miguel, one of the nine islands where you can experience this incredible activity. In this Azores Whale Watching Guide, I’ll share my experience, tips, and everything you need to know for your trip!
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Table of Contents
Whale Watching in the Azores
My Experience Whale Watching the Azores
There are several whale-watching companies across the Azores, and on São Miguel, where I stayed, a few options stand out. My Airbnb host, who was incredibly helpful throughout my stay, recommended Terra Azul Whale Watching in Vila Franca do Campo.
They praised Terra Azul for its commitment to sustainability and smaller, more intimate tours. I appreciated their eco-friendly approach and decided to book with them. My host handled the booking, so we just arrived at 8 AM, checked in, and were ready for the experience. Here’s how it went.
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Terra Azul Conservation Message
Before heading out, Terra Azul shows an informational video that outlines what to expect and highlights their conservation message. I appreciated this part of the experience, as it’s clear they genuinely care about marine life. The guides are not just tour leaders but passionate marine biologists who are knowledgeable and eager to share insights about whales, dolphins, and the company’s conservation efforts.
Conservation is more critical than ever for the health of our planet. While I fully support Terra Azul’s mission, I believe it’s also important to consider the broader impacts of human activities on marine life.
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My Experience on the Ocean
Once we left the marina, the seas were quite rough, with high waves making the journey challenging. The three-hour tour was still enjoyable, despite the conditions. Rough seas are beyond anyone’s control, and even our guide acknowledged it was a tough day.
If you’re prone to seasickness, try focusing on the land—it can help. Unfortunately, several passengers were sick, but sitting at the front of the boat helped me avoid most of it. I recommend eating lightly beforehand.
During the tour, we encountered two dolphin species: the common dolphin and the Risso’s dolphin. Having seen bottlenose dolphins before, it was thrilling to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
At one point, dolphins surrounded the boat, coming close and appearing curious. Although we didn’t spot any whales, which wasn’t surprising given the time of year, the experience was still incredibly rewarding and memorable.
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Ilhéu de Vila Franca do Campo
On the way back to the marina, Terra Azul tours stop by the famous Ilhéu de Vila Franca do Campo, an iconic Azores landmark. This islet, formed from a volcanic crater, features a near-perfect circular lagoon at its center.
During warmer months, visitors can swim and hike around the rim, making it a popular destination. Although we didn’t get to explore the islet on foot, our tour took us around it, allowing us to admire its stunning natural beauty. If you visit in the warmer months, I highly recommend taking a boat tour to fully experience this unique spot.
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Final Thoughts from Whale Watching in the Azores
Overall, I really enjoyed my experience whale watching in Azores with Terra Azul. While the seas were rough, the tour company could not control that. The company did a great job of educating us on the animals and was very friendly.
If you are looking for an Azores whale watching company with excellent guides, definitely give them a try. I hope you get to see some whales if you come whale watching. It would be so magical to see giant whales.
Tips for Whale Watching in the Azores
After my experience whale watching in Azores, I have some tips for any prospective traveler. This may be common knowledge amongst some people, but I still wish to share my thoughts. Again these are my personal tips.
- Eat a Light Breakfast: Avoid eating a large meal before heading out to sea, as rough waters can lead to seasickness. Many people who ate heavy breakfasts regretted it once the boat hit the waves. If you need to eat, choose something light and give it time to settle before boarding.
- Dress Appropriately: If you’re visiting during winter, dress warmly, even more so than you think necessary. The sea can be much colder than the land. Layer up, and take advantage of the coats provided by some tour companies, like Terra Azul. In summer, lighter clothing will suffice, but always bring a windbreaker or waterproof jacket.
- Be Realistic About Sightings: Remember, these are wild animals, so sightings aren’t guaranteed. While you’ll likely see something, be prepared that it may not be exactly what you hoped for. Appreciate the experience and consider yourself lucky if you encounter multiple species.
- Tip the Crew: Though not required, tipping is a nice gesture if you enjoyed the tour. The crew works hard to ensure you have a great experience, from sharing knowledge about the animals to locating them in the vast ocean. A small gratuity is a great way to show your appreciation.
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F.A.Q.
- Why is Whale Watching in the Azores Some of the Best in the World?
The Azores is one of the top locations for whale watching due to its position in the Atlantic Ocean, where marine life frequently passes on migration paths. The region hosts a diverse and large population of whales and dolphins, many of which live here year-round. - When is the Best Time of Year for Whale Watching in the Azores?
The best time for whale watching in the Azores is during April and May. These months offer the highest chances of seeing a wide variety of marine life, especially larger whales. However, whale watching is possible year-round, with different species visible depending on the season. - Which Island is Best for Whale Watching in the Azores?
São Miguel, the largest island, is the best choice for whale watching in the Azores. It offers the most tour options and the greatest chance of seeing marine life. While tours are available on other islands, São Miguel provides the most opportunities. - What Marine Life Can You Expect to See?
The Azores is home to a wide range of marine species, including blue whales, killer whales, sperm whales, pilot whales, common dolphins, bottlenose dolphins, Risso’s dolphins, Atlantic spotted dolphins, and more. The diversity and abundance of marine life make it an exceptional whale-watching destination.
Conclusion
Whale watching in the Azores is an unforgettable experience and should be at the top of your to-do list, no matter the time of year. The Azores are a stunning part of the world, offering pristine natural beauty and incredible wildlife encounters.
I believe these islands are still a hidden gem in travel, with their unspoiled charm waiting to be discovered. If you’re planning a visit, be sure to explore my other content on the Azores to make the most of your trip.
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