Sao Miguel Island is a beautiful destination known for its stunning landscapes, blue lagoons, and natural wonders. But one of the most popular and exciting activities to do in this Portuguese island is whale watching. With so many unique species living in the waters surrounding the island, including sperm whales, blue whales, and humpback whales, it’s no wonder that many visitors come to Sao Miguel Island to get a glimpse of these majestic creatures up close. In this post, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best whale watching experiences available on Sao Miguel Island, and what you can expect from each one. So grab your binoculars and let’s get started!

The 4 Best Whale Watching in Sao Miguel Island

1. Whale Dolphin Watching 3 Hour Trip from Sao Miguel
2. Azores Whale Watching Islet Boat Tour
3. Sao Miguel Azores Half Day Whale Watching Trip
4. Azores Swimming With Wild Dolphins

The 4 Best Whale Watching in Sao Miguel Island

1. Whale Dolphin Watching 3 Hour Trip from Sao Miguel

Set off from Ponta Delgada to witness the diverse marine life of the Azores on a 3-hour whale-watching day trip. Spot over 25 different cetacean species such as minke whales, dolphins, turtles and more while learning about the environment from your onboard marine biologist or nature guide. Choose between a catamaran or a Zodiac boat and enjoy the commentary and historical information provided by your guide. Prior to departure, receive a briefing about whale watching in the Azores, water safety rules of observation and respect for the animals. This tour includes a raincoat and pants, life jacket, hotel pickup and drop-off. Please note that this tour is not suitable for children under 8 years, pregnant women and people with back problems.

2. Azores Whale Watching Islet Boat Tour

Join a thrilling Azores Whale Watching Islet Boat Tour for an unforgettable adventure. On this tour, you will have the chance to spot whales, dolphins, and turtles with the help of a professional marine guide. While on board, you will also admire the stunning views of volcanoes, sandy beaches, and islets surrounding the boat.

The tour begins with an informative introduction to cetaceans and other marine species, including their habitat, communication, migration, and behavioral patterns. After the briefing, you will board the designated boat with an experienced skipper and begin the search for these amazing creatures. The naturalist guides and marine biologists on board will provide you with an insightful commentary of what you can expect to see.

Next, you will take a tour around the Princess Ring Islet of Vila Franca do Campo, where you will get an up-close look at the volcano and other wildlife in the area. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture all the amazing wildlife you encounter on the tour.

The tour includes a wildlife guide, experienced skipper, and a Zodiac RIB boat that has a capacity of 12 to 28 people. Impermeable full suits and life vests are also provided for your safety. Additionally, hotel pick-up and drop-off are available for your convenience.

Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity for an unforgettable adventure in the Azores.

3. Sao Miguel Azores Half Day Whale Watching Trip

Enjoy a half-day experience of whale watching in Sao Miguel, Azores, one of the top ten whale-watching spots in the world. Discover these ocean giants and playful dolphins in their natural habitat at a safe and respectful distance. Learn about marine life and the impressive geological formations that grace the island’s coastline from the knowledgeable crew. After a short safety briefing, put on your life vest and head out to sea as the crew follows the instructions given by radio from the lookouts placed at strategic points along the coastline to find and communicate the position of the animals. With a 99% success rate of sightings, take comfort in knowing that you’re in good hands. When whales are spotted, it’s time to marvel at the company of these magnificent creatures before returning to shore filled with unforgettable memories.

4. Azores Swimming With Wild Dolphins

Join the ultimate swimming experience on an encounter with wild dolphins in the clear blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean departing from the Azores on a Zodiac boat. This 2-hour activity is carried out in small groups, led by a qualified biologist or nature guide, who will also provide a briefing on how to interact responsibly with dolphins before each swimming tour. During the briefing, you’ll learn how to enter the water, use the mask and snorkel, and behave around the dolphins to get the most out of your swimming experience. The tour includes snorkeling masks, wetsuits, raincoat and pants, a life jacket, as well as hotel pick-up and drop off and meals. Don’t miss this chance to explore the ocean and learn more about the wonderful wild dolphins.

FAQs about Whale Watching in Sao Miguel Island

Whale watching in Sao Miguel Island, Azores, is one of the most popular activities for tourists. The island is known for its diverse marine life, particularly whales and dolphins. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a frequent traveler, you are likely to have some questions about whale watching. In this blog post, we will answer the most frequently asked questions about whale watching in Sao Miguel Island.

1. What is the best time for whale watching in Sao Miguel Island?

The best time for whale watching in Sao Miguel Island is from April to October. During this season, the sea is generally calmer, and the chances of spotting whales are higher. However, it is important to keep in mind that whales are wild animals, and their presence is not guaranteed.

2. What types of whales can I see in Sao Miguel Island?

Sao Miguel Island is known for its diverse marine life, and several species of whales can be spotted in the waters surrounding the island. The most common whales you can spot are the Sperm Whale, Fin Whale, Blue Whale, Sei Whale, and the Bryde’s Whale.

3. What is the duration of the whale watching tour?

The duration of the whale watching tour varies depending on the tour operator. However, most tours last for around 2-3 hours. Some tour operators also offer half-day and full-day tours for those who want to spend more time on the water.

4. What is the cost of the whale watching tour in Sao Miguel Island?

The cost of the whale watching tour in Sao Miguel Island varies depending on the tour operator and the duration of the tour. On average, you can expect to pay around 50-70 euros per person for a 2-3 hour tour.

5. Are there any age restrictions for whale watching?

Most tour operators do not have any specific age restrictions for whale watching. However, it is important to keep in mind that whale watching tours can be physically demanding, and passengers should be able to handle the boat’s movements. Additionally, young children and pregnant women are advised to consult their physician before going on a whale watching tour.

6. Will I get seasick on the whale watching tour?

Seasickness is a common concern for those going on a whale watching tour. However, modern boats are designed to minimize motion sickness, and most passengers do not experience any discomfort. Additionally, you can take over-the-counter seasickness medication or try natural remedies like ginger tea to prevent seasickness.

7. What should I wear on the whale watching tour?

It is important to dress appropriately for the whale watching tour. Even during the summer months, temperatures can be chilly on the water, so we recommend dressing in layered clothing. Additionally, wearing a hat and sunglasses is recommended for sun protection, and comfortable shoes with a non-slip sole are advised.

8. What should I bring on the whale watching tour?

We recommend bringing a camera to capture the incredible marine life you will see on the tour. Additionally, bringing a pair of binoculars is recommended to get a closer look at the whales. Some tour operators also provide snacks and beverages, but it is always a good idea to bring your own water bottle and snacks.

9. Is it ethical to go whale watching?

Whale watching is a popular activity, but it is important to make sure that it is done ethically. In Sao Miguel Island, all tour operators are required to follow strict guidelines to ensure the safety of the whales and dolphins. Additionally, some tour operators partner with research organizations to collect data on marine life, which helps promote conservation efforts.

10. What should I do if the tour is canceled due to bad weather?

If the tour is canceled due to bad weather, most tour operators will offer a full refund or reschedule the tour for another day. It is always best to check the cancellation policy before booking the tour to avoid any inconvenience.

How to do whale watching in Sao Miguel Island

Are you looking for a thrilling adventure during your trip to Sao Miguel Island? If so, whale watching is a must-do activity. This experience allows you to observe some of the most magnificent creatures on earth in their natural habitat. In this post, we will guide you through everything you need to know about whale watching in Sao Miguel Island, including the best time to go, what to pack, and how to choose the best tour company.

1. Choosing a whale watching tour company

Before heading out to sea, you need to find a reliable and experienced tour company that will provide a memorable and exciting adventure. Here are some tips to consider when choosing a whale watching tour company in Sao Miguel Island:

Read reviews:

Read reviews of previous customers to get an idea of their service and experience. Check out websites such as TripAdvisor and Google.

Check their certifications:

Make sure the tour company has all the necessary certifications and permits to operate legally. Certification by local environmental authorities is a must.

Ask about their boats:

Ensure that the tour company uses safe and comfortable boats. The size of the boat is also important, as smaller is generally better for viewing whales.

2. Best time for whale watching

The best time to go whale watching in Sao Miguel Island is from April to October. During this period, you will find a higher concentration of whales in the region. However, the peak season is from June to September, when there is a higher probability of spotting different whale species, such as blue whales, humpback whales, and sperm whales.

3. What to pack for whale watching

Whale watching is an outdoor activity that requires some preparation. Before you embark on your journey, you will need to pack a few essential items. Here’s what we recommend:

Warm clothes:

Although the weather may be warm on land, it can get chilly on the open sea, so make sure to pack warm clothes such as a jacket or sweater.

Comfortable shoes:

Choose comfortable shoes with non-slip soles for safety on the boat.

Sunscreen and sunglasses:

The sun can be strong on the water, so it is essential to apply sunscreen and wear sunglasses to protect yourself from harmful rays.

Camera:

Don’t forget to pack your camera or smartphone to take photos of these beautiful creatures and the stunning scenery.

4. Whale watching regulations in Sao Miguel Island

Whale watching is a highly regulated activity in Sao Miguel Island, and it is essential to follow all rules and regulations. The following are some whale watching guidelines you must adhere to:

Do not approach whales too closely:

Maintain a distance of at least 100 meters from the whales.

Do not make loud noises:

Avoid loud noise, which can disturb the whales and their natural habitat.

Do not throw any debris into the sea:

Keep the sea clean by disposing of litter properly.

5. Book Your Tour Now:

Whale watching in Sao Miguel Island is a unique and memorable experience that you do not want to miss. By following the guidelines above and choosing a reliable tour company, you will be able to enjoy an unforgettable experience. Remember to check the weather forecast, pack appropriately, and prepare to be amazed.