Azores Whale Watching Tour – Ponta Delgada
Active
2h - 3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Biologist-Guided Experience – Our tours are always accompanied by professional marine biologists who provide live commentary, species identification, and fascinating insights into whale behavior and marine conservation.
Land-Based Lookouts (Vigias) – We use traditional lookout points on land to spot whales and dolphins before the boats even leave the marina. This local method dramatically increases our chances of successful sightings.
Ethical Wildlife Observation – At Picos de Aventura, we prioritize respectful and non-invasive approaches to wildlife, ensuring that our encounters do not disturb the animals or their natural behaviors.
Scenic Azorean Backdrop – The dramatic coastline of São Miguel and the deep blue Atlantic create a stunning setting for your adventure.
Comfort & Choice – Whether you prefer the adrenaline of a rigid inflatable speedboat or the stability of a catamaran, we offer different vessels to suit your comfort level and adventure style.
Available options
Tour on Catamaran
Duration: 3 hours<br/>Catamaran: Stable and roomy catamaran designed for a smooth ride. Offers panoramic views, shaded areas, and an onboard restroom — perfec
Tour on Speed Boat
Duration: 3 hours<br/>Speedboat: High-speed, open-air zodiac boat for a more adventurous and close-to-the-water experience. Ideal for small groups and fast, a
Tour on Fiberglass Boat
Duration: 3 hours<br/>Fiberglass Boat: Spacious 30-seat fiberglass boat equipped with a suncover for shade. Comfortable and ideal for scenic
What's included
Two boat types available: Catamaran or Rigid Inflatable Speedboat.
Cetacean sightings guaranteed! Full-refund if we don't spot any whales OR dolphins.
Rain Coat and Life Vest (mandatory on the small boats)
Professional Marine Life Experts on board!
Detailed itinerary
1
Meeting Point:
Start your adventure at our headquarters in the Marina of Ponta Delgada. Please arrive 15–20 minutes before departure to check in and get ready for your experience.
Safety Briefing & Introduction (15–20 minutes)
Our team of expert marine biologists will welcome you and give a detailed safety briefing. You’ll also learn about the marine species you might encounter, local conservation efforts, and what to expect during the tour.
Departure from the Marina
After the briefing, we’ll board the boat and set off into the Atlantic Ocean in search of whales, dolphins, and other marine life. Our biologists will accompany you throughout the trip, offering fascinating insights and helping identify each species we encounter.
2
Whale & Dolphin Watching (2 to 3 hours)
Spend up to 3 hours at sea, guided by our experienced crew and biologists. Sightings vary depending on the day, but you may encounter sperm whales, dolphins, and possibly even baleen whales or other migratory species. The tour combines the thrill of spotting wildlife with informative commentary and breathtaking views of the coastline.
Return to the Marina
After the tour, we return to our headquarters where your guides are available for any final questions or to share more about the sightings of the day.
What's not included
Food and drinks
Hotel drop-off
Hotel Pick-up
Available languages
Guide guide
PT
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.6
168 reviews
5★
129
4★
22
3★
6
2★
6
1★
5
Tripadvisor
4.6
567 reviews
5★
436
4★
64
3★
33
2★
12
1★
22
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
We offer tours on 2 different types of boats: A zodiac-style rigid inflatable speedboat, designed for speed, safety, and a thrilling close-to-the-water experience OR or a modern Catamaran with plenty of space to move around where you can relax inside the covered cabin or soak up the views from the open-air upper deck. This larger boat offers a more comfortable experience and amenities like toilets for your convenience. Perfect for families with small children.
Children must be accompanied by an adult
May be operated by a multi-lingual guide
Weather conditions may limit the participation of children due to safety concerns.
Meeting point
We do not provide pick-ups from hotels for this activity.
About Ponta Delgada
Ponta Delgada, the largest city in the Azores archipelago, is known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Nestled on the island of São Miguel, it offers a unique blend of Portuguese charm and Azorean hospitality, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.
Top Attractions
Portas do Mar
Portas do Mar is a waterfront promenade and cultural center that offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the city's historic center. It's a great place to relax, dine, and enjoy local events.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free
Santa Bárbara Fortress
This 16th-century fortress offers panoramic views of Ponta Delgada and the surrounding coastline. It's a historic landmark and a great spot for photography enthusiasts.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free
Lagoa do Fogo
Lagoa do Fogo is a stunning crater lake surrounded by lush vegetation and dramatic cliffs. It's a popular spot for hiking and nature lovers.
Nature
Half day
Free
Goretti Market
This traditional market is a hub of local activity, offering fresh produce, seafood, and handicrafts. It's a great place to experience the local culture and sample Azorean cuisine.
Cultural
1 hour
Free to enter, prices vary for purchases
Azorean Whale Watching
Ponta Delgada is one of the best places in the world for whale watching. Join a boat tour to see various species of whales and dolphins in their natural habitat.
Adventure
3-4 hours
€40-€60 per person
Must-Try Local Dishes
Cozido das Furnas
A traditional Azorean stew cooked underground using geothermal heat, featuring various meats and vegetables.
Dinner
Contains meat and vegetables, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Bife à Regional
A tender beef steak marinated in garlic and wine, grilled to perfection.
Dinner
Contains beef, suitable for gluten-free diets if prepared accordingly.
Lapas Grelhadas
Grilled limpet, a local seafood delicacy often served with garlic and lemon.
Appetizer
Seafood, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Queijo São Jorge
A sharp, smoky cheese from the nearby island of São Jorge, often served with bread and wine.
Snack
Dairy product, not suitable for vegans or those with lactose intolerance.
Popular Activities
Whale watching
Hiking
Scuba diving
Hot springs
Beach lounging
Wine tasting
Visiting historic sites
Attending local festivals
Best Time to Visit
June to September
This is the best time to visit Ponta Delgada for warm weather and outdoor activities. The city is lively with festivals and events, and the sea is ideal for swimming and water sports.
18°C to 28°C
64°F to 82°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Portuguese
- Widely spoken: English, French
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+0 (Azores Time)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Ponta Delgada is generally a safe destination for travelers. Petty crime is rare, but visitors should take standard precautions to protect their belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps
- • Be cautious of strangers offering help or services
Getting there
By air
- João Paulo II Airport • 2 km from city center
By bus
Rodoeste, Central Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the primary mode of public transport in Ponta Delgada. They are affordable and connect the city center to major attractions and nearby towns.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Bolt
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
City Center
Arrifes
Lagoa
Day trips
Furnas
25 km from Ponta Delgada • Half day to full day
Furnas is known for its geothermal activity, hot springs, and the famous Cozido das Furnas. It's a great place for hiking, relaxation, and experiencing the island's unique natural phenomena.
Setes Cidades
40 km from Ponta Delgada • Full day
Setes Cidades is a stunning volcanic complex with two lakes and breathtaking views. It's a popular spot for hiking, photography, and nature lovers.
Nordeste
50 km from Ponta Delgada • Full day
Nordeste is known for its lush landscapes, waterfalls, and historic churches. It's a great place for hiking, exploring nature, and experiencing the island's cultural heritage.
Festivals
Festa do Senhor Santo Cristo dos Milagres • Easter week
Festival do Marisco • June
Pro tips
- Visit the Goretti Market for fresh produce and local handicrafts
- Try the traditional Azorean dish, Cozido das Furnas, cooked underground using geothermal heat
- Explore the historic center of Ponta Delgada, including the Portas do Mar and the Santa Bárbara Fortress
- Take a whale-watching tour to see various species of whales and dolphins in their natural habitat
- Hike to the stunning Lagoa do Fogo for breathtaking views and a unique natural experience
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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