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Dolphin and Whale Watching in the Azores

10 Days

Small Group Wildlife Holiday

Highlights

  • Explore the waters of the Atlantic around the Azores
  • Accompany the Whale Watch Azores Project to look for sperm, beaked, pilot and baleen whales, Risso's, bottlenose, common, spotted and striped dolphins, loggerhead turtles and much more
  • Enjoy beautiful, unspoilt island scenery
  • Relax in the sun on board the 'Physeter', a catamaran specially modified for whale watching and research
  • Learn about cetaceans from an experienced naturalist guide/researcher
  • Stay in picturesque Horta, the peaceful capital of Faial Island

Description

The archipelago of the Azores is a haven of calm and tranquility, just over two hours flying time from mainland Portugal. These lush, green volcanic islands are still relatively untouched by tourism, and the waters surrounding them are home to a wide variety of whales and dolphins. No fewer than 26 species have been seen in recent years, and six to eight species are normally seen on any one tour.

The catamaran 'Physeter' offers plenty of room to stretch out and relax, both in and out of the sun. Its wide bow and three deck areas are perfect for watching and photographing whales and dolphins. You'll be helping to search for sperm and pilot whales, Cuvier's and Sowerby's beaked whales, bottlenose, Risso's, common, spotted, and striped dolphins. There are even occasional sightings of false killer, blue, minke, fin and sei whales - and more besides!

There will also be an opportunity to spend time ashore and explore Faial, known as the Blue Island due to its plentiful hydrangeas, or even take a ferry across to the nearby island of Pico.

Itinerary

Day 1.
Arrive in Horta, on Faial - the island's only town. Welcome evening meal.
Days 2 to 9.
Six days at sea (weather permitting), watching whales & dolphins on board the catamaran 'Physeter'; two shore days to explore the island with an optional half-day guided taxi tour, or take a ferry across to nearby Pico.
Day 10.
Departure day.
Note: We can also offer a shorter 6 day version of this trip - please contact us for departure dates and prices.

While most departures follow the above itinerary, we reserve the right to change this to ensure a successful trip.

Sao Jorge, Azores

Click here to book online
Spotted Dolphins, Azores
  • Tour Code: BAZO
  • WDCS Donation Included: Trip cost includes a donation to the Whale & Dolphin Conservation Society (WDCS)
  • What's Included: 9 nights hotel accommodation in rooms with en suite facilities, 9 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 7 evening meals, all transfers, 6 full day whalewatching boat trips, naturalist guide.
  • Flight Inclusive Package includes: Return flights from London to Horta via Lisbon.
  • Guide: Lisa Steiner
  • Group size: 12 maximum

    "I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of this trip. The Azores are quiet unlike anything I've ever seen before, they're beautiful! Coupled with the cetaceans, it was heaven!"
    V.B.2007

    Trust the guide:
    "The wealth of cetacean species regularly seen here confirms the Azores as the European cetacean hotspot bar none, and the islands are comparable with the best locations worldwide. Without WDCS guests on board, the research into the whales and dolphins living and passing the Azores would simply not be possible."
    Lisa Steiner.

    Sperm Whale Tail, Azores