The Azores archipelago, a hidden gem in the Atlantic Ocean, boasts an abundance of marine life waiting to be discovered. Pico Island, in particular, offers an exhilarating opportunity to witness the grace and power of whales and dolphins up close. Adventurers can embark on a 3-hour Zodiac boat excursion, guided by knowledgeable experts, to explore the island’s coastal wonders and uncover the rich biodiversity that makes this region a premier destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
Key Points
- A 3-hour dolphin and whale watching excursion from Pico Island, Azores, with live guides in Portuguese and English.
- Opportunity to see over 25 different species of cetaceans, including pilot whales, bottlenose dolphins, and sperm whales.
- Guided approach to whales to ensure their well-being, with an introduction to cetacean habitats, communication, migration, and behaviors.
- Refreshments provided, with recommendations for appropriate clothing and seasickness medication for those prone to motion sickness.
- Overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 241 reviews, with highlights including wildlife sightings, customer service, and value for money.
Activity Overview
Experience marine biodiversity on a 3-hour dolphin and whale watching excursion from Pico Island.
Enjoy Pico Island’s marine diversity with a 3-hour dolphin and whale watching excursion.
The tour costs from €50.00 per person and offers live guides in Portuguese and English. Cancellation up to 24 hours in advance is free, and there’s a reserve now, pay later option.
The tour starts at Aqua Açores, Lda – Whale and Dolphin Watching in Lajes Do Pico. Guests receive a safety briefing, guided whale and dolphin watching, and welcome refreshments over the 3-hour experience.
Key highlights include sighting over 25 cetacean species and capturing photos of coastlines and marine wildlife.
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Itinerary Details
The tour starts at Aqua Açores, Lda – Whale and Dolphin Watching in Lajes Do Pico. After a 10-minute safety briefing, guests embark on a 3-hour guided dolphin and whale watching experience. During the excursion, they may spot various marine wildlife, including birds, turtles, whales, and dolphins. Refreshments are provided during the 10-minute welcome.
| Activity | Duration |
| — | — |
| Safety Briefing | 10 minutes |
| Dolphin & Whale Watching | 3 hours |
| Welcome Refreshments | 10 minutes |
Itineraries may change, so guests should check availability for starting times. The tour provides an opportunity to learn about cetaceans from the knowledgeable guide.
Marine Biodiversity Highlights
Visitors have the opportunity to see over 25 different species of cetaceans in the Azores, including whales, dolphins, and porpoises.
The Azores boasts an impressive array of over 25 cetacean species, including whales, dolphins, and porpoises.
The guides approach whales carefully to ensure their well-being, providing an introduction to cetacean habitats, communication, migration, and behaviors. Guests can capture stunning photos of the coastline and marine wildlife.
Sightings may include pilot whales, bottlenose dolphins, and the elusive sperm whale. The Azores are considered one of the best places in the world to see these majestic creatures in their natural environment.
Visitors are sure to leave with a newfound appreciation for the region’s incredible marine biodiversity.
Whale and Dolphin Watching Experience
Beginning on Pico Island, guests embark on a 3-hour dolphin and whale watching excursion with a live tour guide available in Portuguese and English.
The experience includes:
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A safety briefing, followed by 3 hours of guided dolphin and whale watching.
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Welcome refreshments to enjoy while observing birds, turtles, whales, and dolphins in their natural habitats.
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The opportunity to capture pictures of the coastline and marine wildlife, as well as learn about cetacean habitats, communication, migration, and behaviors from the knowledgeable guide.
With life jackets and waterproof tops provided, the tour isn’t suitable for certain groups, and guests are advised to take necessary precautions.
More Great Tours NearbyCetacean Introduction From Tour Guide
As the whale and dolphin watching tour departs, the guide provides an introduction to cetaceans, covering their habitats, communication, migration patterns, and behaviors. The guide explains that cetaceans, which include whales, dolphins, and porpoises, occupy diverse marine environments, from shallow coastal waters to deep open oceans. Their complex communication involves a range of vocalizations, such as clicks, whistles, and even songs, which they use for navigation, socializing, and foraging. The guide highlights the impressive migratory journeys of some species, as well as the unique behaviors observed, like breaching and bubble feeding.
| Cetacean Characteristics | |
|————————–|————-|
| Habitats | Coastal, Pelagic |
| Communication | Vocalizations, Body Language |
| Migration | Seasonal, Long-Distance |
| Behaviors | Breaching, Bubble Feeding |
| Taxonomy | Whales, Dolphins, Porpoises |
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Safety and Preparation
Life jackets are provided for all participants on the whale and dolphin watching tour.
To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, guests are advised to:
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Bring sun hat, sunscreen, and weather-appropriate clothing.
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Take seasickness medication 30 minutes prior if prone to motion sickness.
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Avoid bringing pets and refrain from smoking on board.
Light food is permitted, but the boat’s crew strictly prohibits individuals under 2, pregnant women, and those with back problems from joining the tour.
With these precautions in place, guests can fully enjoy the marine wonderland and capture stunning photographs of the coastline and wildlife.
Customer Feedback and Ratings
The whale and dolphin watching tour on Pico Island has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from customers, with an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 241 reviews.
Customers have praised the enthusiastic and knowledgeable guides, giving them a 4.9/5 rating. The transportation and value for money aspects of the tour have also been highly rated at 4.7/5 and 4.6/5, respectively.
Highlights from customer reviews include enjoying the wildlife sightings, including dolphins and sperm whales, as well as the overall good customer service and experience.
The tour provides a unique opportunity to witness the rich marine biodiversity of the Azores.
Reserve Your Pico Island Adventure
To reserve your unforgettable whale and dolphin watching adventure on Pico Island, simply visit the Aqua Açores website or contact them directly.
The booking process is straightforward:
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Select your preferred date and time for the 3-hour excursion.
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Choose between single or group bookings.
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Opt for the flexible "Reserve Now, Pay Later" option if desired.
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Review the terms, including free cancellation up to 24 hours prior.
With a knowledgeable live guide, comfortable boat, and the chance to spot diverse marine life, this Pico Island experience is sure to create lasting memories.
The Sum Up
Pico Island in the Azores offers a thrilling opportunity to witness the region’s rich marine life. Aboard a Zodiac boat, adventurers can spot diverse species like playful dolphins and majestic whales, while enjoying stunning coastal views. With knowledgeable guides, safety protocols, and refreshments, this excursion promises an unforgettable connection with nature. Don’t miss the chance to experience the Azores’ impressive whale and dolphin watching.
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