Experience the Azores Whale Watching Islet Boat Tour on Sao Miguel Island

Are you ready for an unforgettable marine adventure on Sao Miguel Island? Look no further than the Azores Whale Watching Islet Boat Tour for an exciting and educational experience.

Highlights of the Tour

On this tour, you’ll have the opportunity to see magnificent cetaceans, dolphins, and turtles in their natural habitat, and learn about marine biodiversity from professional staff on board the boat. Additionally, you’ll admire stunning views of volcanoes, sandy beaches, and islets during your Azores boat tour.

What to Expect on the Tour

Begin your tour with an introduction to cetaceans and other marine species, including their natural habitat, communication, migration, and behavioral patterns. Your briefing will help you understand these fascinating marine creatures that you may see during your tour. After the introduction, board your designated boat and head out to sea. Your naturalist guides and marine biologists on board will carefully approach the whales, ensuring their safety and minimizing any disturbances to their natural behavior. Their expert commentary will also provide you with fascinating insights into the behaviors, ecology, and conservation of these impressive animals. Next, tour around the Princess Ring Islet of Vila Franca do Campo, where you can admire its unique volcano and its resident wildlife up close. Throughout the tour, light food is permitted on board, and you should have your camera ready to capture the wildlife you spot on the tour.

Tour Inclusions

Your tour includes everything you need to make the most of your experience. It comes with a wildlife guide, an experienced skipper, a Zodiac RIB boat with a 12- to 28-person capacity, an impermeable full suit, and a life vest. Additionally, hotel pick-up and drop-off are available, making traveling to and from the tour site hassle-free.

How to Book the Tour

Ready to book the Azores Whale Watching Islet Boat Tour on Sao Miguel Island? Visit the booking page to reserve your spot on this exciting adventure. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to encounter some of the most magnificent creatures that the sea has to offer!

Frequently Asked Questions about Sao Miguel Island

Sao Miguel Island is the biggest of the Azores islands, a beautiful archipelago located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. The island is surrounded by stunning landscapes, breathtaking viewpoints, and fantastic natural parks, which make the tourists fall in love with this island. If you’re planning to visit Sao Miguel Island, we’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions that you might find helpful.

1. When is the best time to visit Sao Miguel Island?

Sao Miguel Island has mild temperatures throughout the year, but the best time to visit the island is from May to October. The weather during this time of the year is warm, and the rainfall is less frequent. However, if you’re interested in whale watching, the best months are from April to June, and September to November.

2. What is the currency used in Sao Miguel Island?

The currency used in Sao Miguel Island is the Euro. You can withdraw money from ATMs, and most stores and restaurants accept credit cards. It’s also a good idea to notify your bank that you’ll be traveling to prevent your credit or debit card from being blocked.

3. Do I need a visa to visit Sao Miguel Island?

If you’re a citizen of the European Union or the United States, you don’t need a visa to visit Sao Miguel Island. However, it’s always a good idea to check with your embassy or consulate to confirm whether you need a visa or not.

4. What’s the official language spoken in Sao Miguel Island?

The official languages spoken in Sao Miguel Island are Portuguese and Azorean. However, most people working in the tourism industry speak English, so communicating with locals won’t be a problem.

5. What are the top tourist attractions in Sao Miguel Island?

Sao Miguel Island has numerous tourist attractions that you can visit, but some of the must-see places include:

a. Sete Cidades

Sete Cidades is a beautiful village located in the western part of Sao Miguel Island. The village is famous for its stunning twin lakes, which are surrounded by lush green landscapes.

b. Furnas

Furnas is a village located in the eastern part of Sao Miguel Island. The village is famous for its bubbling hot springs, thermal pools, and mud baths.

c. Lagoa do Fogo

Lagoa do Fogo is a crater lake located in the center of Sao Miguel Island, between Ribeira Grande and Lagoa. The lake is surrounded by stunning landscapes, and it’s a great place to hike.

6. What are the best outdoor activities to do in Sao Miguel Island?

Sao Miguel Island is a paradise for nature lovers, and some of the best outdoor activities that you can do include:

a. Hiking

Sao Miguel Island has numerous hiking trails that you can explore. Some of the most beautiful hiking trails include the Sete Cidades Trail and the Salto do Prego Trail.

b. Whale watching

Sao Miguel Island is one of the best places in the world for whale watching. You can see different species of whales, such as humpback whales, blue whales, and sperm whales.

c. Scuba diving

Sao Miguel Island has crystal-clear waters, and scuba diving is a great way to explore the island’s marine life. You can see different species of fish, such as wrasses and morays, and you might even encounter sea turtles.

7. What’s the local cuisine like in Sao Miguel Island?

The local cuisine in Sao Miguel Island is a mix of seafood, meat, and vegetables. Some of the must-try dishes include:

a. Cozido das Furnas

Cozido das Furnas is a traditional dish cooked in hot springs. The dish consists of different types of meat and vegetables, such as beef, chicken, potatoes, and carrots.

b. Lapas grelhadas

Lapas grelhadas are grilled limpets, a type of seafood that’s very popular in the Azores.

c. Queijadas da Vila Franca do Campo

Queijadas da Vila Franca do Campo are small pastries made with sugar, butter, and cheese.

8. What’s the nightlife like in Sao Miguel Island?

Sao Miguel Island has a vibrant nightlife, especially during the summer months. There are numerous bars and clubs where you can enjoy live music and dance the night away. If you’re looking for a more relaxed atmosphere, there are also plenty of cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy a drink or two.

9. Where can I stay in Sao Miguel Island?

Sao Miguel Island has numerous accommodation options that cater to different budgets and preferences. Some of the best places to stay include:

a. Hotels and resorts

Sao Miguel Island has numerous hotels and resorts that offer excellent amenities, such as swimming pools, spas, and restaurants.

b. Guesthouses and bed and breakfasts

Guesthouses and bed and breakfasts are a great option if you’re looking for a more intimate and personalized stay.

c. Apartments and villas

Apartments and villas are a great option if you’re traveling with a group of friends or family, as they offer more space and privacy.

Book Your Tour Now

Sao Miguel Island is a beautiful and enchanting place that offers visitors the chance to explore stunning landscapes, enjoy delicious food, and experience a rich culture. We hope that this FAQ has been helpful in planning your visit to this beautiful island. Don’t forget to pack your camera and prepare to be amazed by the beauty of Sao Miguel Island!

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Sao Miguel Island

Sao Miguel Island is the largest of the nine islands in the Azores and the most popular tourist destination. From stunning natural landscapes to rich cultural heritage, there’s so much to see and do on this island. In this guide, we’ll explore various things that you can do and places you can visit while on the island.

1. Visit Lagoa das Sete Cidades

Lagoa das Sete Cidades is a volcanic crater lake located in the west part of the island. The lake is divided into two parts, one side is blue, and the other is green, which gives it its name, the “Lake of Seven Cities.” The lake is surrounded by lush green hills, making it a stunning place to take pictures, go hiking, or enjoy a picnic. There are various hiking trails around the lake that are suitable for all levels of hikers.

2. Swim at the Natural Pools of Ponta Delgada

If you’re a fan of swimming, then head over to the natural pools of Ponta Delgada. These are made up of volcanic rocks and are an excellent place for swimming and sunbathing. The water is crystal clear, and the views are phenomenal, making it ideal for some relaxation during your trip. There are also several restaurants nearby, so you can grab a snack or beverage as you spend the day at the pools.

3. Explore the City of Ponta Delgada

Ponta Delgada is the largest city and the capital of the Azores. Walking around the city’s streets and exploring its many sites is an excellent way to get to know the local culture. The city is known for its Baroque architecture, such as the Carlos Machado Museum, which houses the most extensive collection of Azorean art and artifacts. Another iconic site worth visiting is the Portas da Cidade, the gateway to Ponta Delgada dating back to the 1700s.

4. Visit the Lagoa do Fogo

Lagoa do Fogo is another volcanic crater lake located in the center of the island. It is considered one of the most beautiful lakes in the Azores and an excellent place to take pictures. The lake is surrounded by natural vegetation, rocky cliffs and is located at an altitude of 580 meters, making for great hiking views along the route.

5. Go Whale Watching

One of the most popular activities to do in Sao Miguel is whale watching. There are various tour operators on the island that offer guided whale watching trips. The waters around the Azores are home to more than 20 different species of whales and dolphins, making it a fantastic opportunity to experience these marine mammals in their natural habitat. Popular tours include the Blue Whale, Sperm Whale, and Orca watching.

6. Visit the Gorreana Tea Plantation

If you’re a fan of tea, then a visit to the Gorreana Tea Plantation is a must-visit. It is the oldest tea plantation in Europe and still uses traditional methods to cultivate tea plants. Visitors can take a tour of the plantation, which includes a visit to the tea factory and a tea tasting. You can buy tea and other related items from the shop as souvenirs.

7. Discover the Terra Nostra Park Botanical Gardens

Located in Furnas, the Terra Nostra Park Botanical Gardens are known for their diverse collections of plants and trees from around the world. The main attraction at the gardens is the geothermal pool, which is rich in iron and other minerals, giving the water a warm, orange hue. There are various picnic spots and benches throughout the gardens, making it a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery.

8. Enjoy Local Cuisine

The Azores are known for their delicious cuisine, and Sao Miguel Island is no exception. Here are some local dishes worth trying:

• Cozido das Furnas: cooked in the hot geothermal pools in Furnas.
• Alcatra: a beef stew cooked with local red wine.
• Bolo Levedo: a sweet bread made with sugar, eggs, and milk.
• Queijadas da Vila Franca: small cheese tarts.

Book Your Tour Now

Sao Miguel Island is a beautiful vacation destination with an abundance of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and delicious cuisine. By visiting the Lagoa das Sete Cidades, the natural pools of Ponta Delgada, walking to explore the local city of Ponta Delgada, taking a whale watching tour, tasting tea at the Gorreana Tea Plantation or enjoy some relaxation in Terra Nostra Park, and indulging in local food, you’re sure to have an unforgettable time on the island.