Private Whale Watching
Whale watching is one of the most popular things to do off Ponta Delgada and for good reason, spotting whales in the Azores is one of the easiest things to do. Your private boat will accommodate twelve guests in total and you will be provided with the absolute best up-close and personal experience with these giant, gentle creatures.
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.
- Duration
- 3 hours
- Operated by
- Shore Excursions Group
- A taxi (approximately 7 EUR each way, not included) may be needed to reach your departure location.
- We recommend wearing comfortable, weather appropriate clothing and to bring a light jacket. We also suggest comfortable, closed-toe walking shoes with a rubber sole, sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat.
- 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.
Excursion purchases are fully refundable outside of 14 days prior to the tour date. Beginning on the 14th day prior to the tour date, excursion purchases are non-refundable.