Ultimate Guide to Whale Watching on São Miguel, Terceira & Faial Islands
- Tips and Tricks for Whale Watching
Do you love the ocean and all things in the nautical niche? If so, then we have the perfect vacation experience for you! Consider this your official invitation to come and experience the magic of the Azores Sea via a whale-watching excursion! You can also expect some cetacean watching, dolphin watching, and many more sightings as you launch out on what promises to be one of the most exhilarating boat trips of your life!
- Experience the Thrill of Whale Watching on São Miguel Island
While whale watching and boat trips are delightful experiences, none compare to the extraordinary sea excursions offered on São Miguel Island, the crown jewel of the Azores for ocean enthusiasts. As the largest island in the Portuguese archipelago, São Miguel is encircled by a shimmering azure sea, hosting an array of magnificent marine life.
Embarking on a cetacean-watching adventure here is not just an educational experience about Azorean marine life; it's a sensory extravaganza. You'll be immersed in learning while aboard one of the finest boat trips in the world, where stunning vistas await. The journey showcases the breathtaking beauty of São Miguel Island, from its captivating coastline to its awe-inspiring seascapes, making it a truly unforgettable experience.
- Sailing Vessels Used for Boat Trips and Whale Watching in the Azores
For your whale-watching adventure in the Azores, there are two types of vessels most commonly used for such boat trips: catamarans and semi-rigid.
The catamaran is the more popular and preferred choice for whale watching in the Azores. Many choose the catamaran due to its stability and speed, especially when compared to monohull boats. However, your whale-watching adventure in the Azores can also see you boarding a semi-rigid, smaller boat, which is the ideal choice for Azores boat trips for those passengers looking for more of a thrilling ride and a bit more edgy adventure and higher energy appeal.
- Whale Watching Experience in the Azores: What To Know Before You Go
To ensure your ideal cetacean-watching experience, you need to arrive at the boat trip launching site about 30 minutes before departure time. This way, you will have ample time to be given a brief introduction by an expert marine biologist, who will regale you with intriguing information, as well as give you a rundown on the code of conduct to follow while aboard all Azores boat trips, including this joyous jaunt!
Are you already in love with the Azores? Take a look at our stress-free packages that allow you to book your ultimate island adventure. All our packages are carefully curated by our team of local Azorean Experts so that you don’t need to worry about any details – just enjoy your trip!
As well as arriving to hear this important information, our top recommendations for your Azores whale-watching experience include:
- Bring comfortable clothes and shoes;
- Take a coat;
- Bring water and light snacks;
- Take a motion sickness pill about 30 minutes before the start of any boat trip;
- If you are pregnant, you should consult your doctor first. If your physician approves of the trip, you must make the trip aboard a catamaran and not a semi-rigid vessel. The same guideline applies if you have back problems;
- Respect all indications from guides and marine biologists;
- Don't forget to bring your camera.
Further parameters to expect include adopting a respectful and safe code of cetacean-friendly behavior, which includes being mindful of your noise levels (whale-watching boat trips tend to like keeping noise to a minimum to not disrupt our aquatic neighbors!). You should also avoid polluting the sea or feeding and disrupting/chasing marine animals. Speaking of not disturbing our sea neighbors, it may surprise you to learn that (with good reason) all boat trips for cetacean observation experiences in the Azores must also keep their vessels at a minimum distance of 50 meters from the sea creatures. But believe us, this is still close enough to see the entire magical world of the Azore's version of “Life Aquatic”!
- Azores History: From a Whaling World to a World of Whale Watching
Whaling was once among the primary economic activities in São Miguel, Azores. In fact, in São Vicente Ferreira, the remains of the old whale processing factory can still be seen. It is here that whale blubber was distilled for oils and flour was produced many, many years ago during the height of the Azores whaling era.
When whaling was officially abolished in 1970, the factory closed, leaving only the old chimney standing. Now, you can visit the lovingly preserved historic site to this day to remember and honor the heritage of the Azores' whaling tradition. This reason alone is a great incentive for history buffs to venture to São Vicente Ferreira on the Island of São Miguel.
- Whale Watching and the Islet of Vila Franca do Campo
There is just something extra magical about a whale-watching experience in Vila Franca do Campo, located just off the coast of the island of São Miguel. Embarking on one of these blissful boat trips affords you the unique opportunity to fully appreciate the beauty of this natural landscape up close and personal, not to mention getting introduced to the nearby aquatic life!
As well as being an excellent place to enjoy boat trips, whale watching and dolphin watching, the islet of Vila Franca do Campo also features a Protected Nature Reserve that is an excellent bathing area that overlooks the entire stunning south coast of the island. To protect the unique biodiversity of this place, access is prohibited to 400 people per day, and only during the summer hours, when it is a very popular attraction. We definitely would suggest adding this stop to your Azores Island vacation itinerary, just don’t forget your snorkeling mask!
- The Magic of Whale Watching on Faial Island
Although each of the Azores Islands has its unique appeal and draw, fans of sailing, boat trips, and even whale-watching excursions will especially adore Faial Island. And what exactly can you expect during a boat trip or whale watching experience on Faial, Azores? We’re so glad you asked…
Faial is surrounded by a sparkling azure sea that is home to some of the world’s most impressive nautical creatures. It also has a unique history that centers around the beloved pastime of sailing (but we will dive into that a bit later in this article).
Discover the wonders of the deep on a whale-watching tour around Faial Island. This isn't just an educational trip about marine life in the Azores; it's a complete sensory journey. Gain insights about oceanic creatures and the Azores' rich history while aboard one of the world's premier boat excursions, guided by knowledgeable and trusted local experts. As you cruise along the picturesque coastline of Faial Island, prepare to be captivated by its breathtaking seascapes.
- Faial Sailing Traditions, Whale Watching, and a Tribute Sports Bar
As for Faial Island specifically, it has its distinct roots connected with the ocean blue, with its beloved sailing traditions taking center stage. You don't have to look far upon arriving in Faial to witness evidence of this Azores Island’s special bond with the sea.
Case in point: The capital of Horta houses an iconic restaurant, Peter’s Cafe Sport, which has slowly become a world-famous institution in its own right. The owner, José Azevedo, has taken such great pride in establishing one of the most recognized and famous yachting pubs anywhere across the globe.
Since the beloved Faial Island pub was first established by his grandpa way back in 1918, Jose and his sports café have hosted travelers and locals alike, from the very first trading ships arriving on the Azores’ shores centuries ago to whalers working their trade, to now, where it still stands as a symbol of Faial’s historical part in the big picture of Azores Islands whaling, sailing, and world trade operations.
While you are visiting Faial, a stop by Peter’s Cafe Sport is an absolute must – not only for enjoying a delicious meal and refreshing libation but also to learn a bit more about the fascinating sailing and whaling history here.
Fun fact: This cozy cafe was once acting as a makeshift post office of sorts, as it began holding mail and packages for sailors passing through.
Discover the Wonders of the Sea: Boat Trips in Terceira Island, Azores
Some may be surprised to know that Terceira Island is among the most popular whale-watching islands in the Azores thanks to its high percentage of sightings reported by visitors and tourists alike. Due to this abundance of sightings, Terceira has quickly become the go-to destination for those seeking amazing bot trips and whale-watching and dolphin-watching excursions. The fact that Terceira Island also boasts the UNESCO city of Angra do Heroismo just adds more reason to make this Azores Island a must-see on your Azores Island vacation itinerary.
For your convenience, we've prepared a comprehensive whale-watching guide, ensuring a flawless experience that allows you to make the most of this unforgettable adventure. Get your Whale Watching Guide
Are you already in love with the Azores? Take a look at our stress-free packages that allow you to book your ultimate island adventure. All our packages are carefully curated by our team of local Azorean Experts so that you don’t need to worry about any details – just enjoy your trip!
