Azores Marine Birdwatching Expedition

The Azores Marine Birdwatching Expedition offers a unique opportunity to observe a diverse array of seabirds in their natural habitat. Combining a scenic drive and captivating boat cruise, this 3-hour guided tour allows participants to explore the stunning Islet of Vila Franca do Campo and spot species like Cory’s Shearwater and Bridled Terns. With high-quality equipment and the expertise of wildlife guides, birdwatchers can enjoy the region’s vibrant marine life. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or a curious nature lover, this expedition promises an unforgettable experience.

Key Points

• A 3-hour guided tour that includes a scenic drive, boat cruise, and wildlife viewing around the Islet of Vila Franca do Campo in the Azores.
• The tour focuses on observing local sea birds and coastal colonies with the help of experienced marine biologists and binoculars.
• Potential sightings include Cory’s Shearwater, Barolo Shearwater, Bridled or Sooty Terns, and Great Shearwater, with peak viewing seasons in spring and autumn.
• The tour provides all necessary equipment, including impermeable suits, life vests, and personal water supply, ensuring safety and comfort.
• The excursion is highly rated for its exceptional value, knowledgeable guides, and the unique opportunity to observe diverse seabirds in their natural habitats.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview and Pricing

The Azores Marine Birdwatching Expedition offers a 3-hour guided tour starting from $53.52 per person. Guests can reserve their spot and pay later.

The tour includes a scenic drive, a boat cruise around the Islet of Vila Franca do Campo, and wildlife viewing with a knowledgeable guide. Binoculars, an impermeable suit, and a life vest are provided.

However, the tour isn’t suitable for children under 4, pregnant women, or those with back problems.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The itinerary may change due to weather, and specific animal sightings aren’t guaranteed.

Itinerary and Locations

The Azores Marine Birdwatching Expedition starts with a scenic 30-minute drive from the selected location, typically Ponta Delgada, to Vila Franca do Campo. Guests then embark on a guided 2.75-hour boat cruise around the Islet of Vila Franca do Campo, where they can spot various sea birds and coastal colonies. During the cruise, the tour allows for wildlife viewing and photo stops. After the boat tour, visitors have 15 minutes of free time at the Marina de Vila Franca do Campo before the expedition concludes.

| Starting Location | Itinerary Highlights | Main Sites Passed |

| — | — | — |

| Depends on selected option, typically from Ponta Delgada | Scenic drive to Vila Franca do Campo (30 minutes), Guided boat cruise around Islet of Vila Franca do Campo (2.75 hours), Wildlife viewing and photo stops, Free time at Marina de Vila Franca do Campo (15 minutes) | São Miguel Island, Azores Whale Watching TERRA AZUL™ |

Birdwatching Experience

The expedition focuses on observing local sea birds and coastal colonies with the guidance of experienced marine biologists.

Participants can expect to see a variety of species, including Cory’s Shearwater, Barolo Shearwater, Common and Roseate Terns, Yellow-legged Gulls, Bulwer’s Petrel, and Wilson’s and Madeiran Storm-petrels.

There’s also a chance of spotting Bridled or Sooty Terns, Great Shearwater, and more.

The best viewing seasons are year-round, with peak sightings in spring and autumn.

Binoculars and an experienced skipper are provided to ensure an immersive birdwatching experience in the stunning Azores landscape.

Tour Inclusions and Equipment

One key inclusion in the Azores Birdwatching Expedition is Opticron 8×42 binoculars, which allow participants to get a closer look at the diverse seabird species. The expedition also provides a knowledgeable wildlife guide and experienced skipper to ensure a memorable experience. Travelers will have access to a Zodiac rib boat with a capacity of 12 passengers, along with an impermeable suit and life vest for their safety and comfort. Plus, the tour includes personal water supply and insurance, making it a comprehensive package. However, the expedition is not suitable for children under 4, pregnant women, or individuals with certain physical limitations.

| Included | Not Included |

| — | — |

| Opticron 8×42 Binoculars | Children under 4 years |

| Knowledgeable Wildlife Guide | Pregnant Women |

| Experienced Skipper | Individuals with Back Problems |

| Zodiac Rib Boat (12 pax) | Wheelchair Users |

| Impermeable Suit and Life Vest | |

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Important Information

When packing for the Azores Birdwatching Expedition, participants should bring warm clothing, a camera, snacks, sunscreen, water, and binoculars to fully enjoy the adventure.

Participants should pack warm clothing, a camera, snacks, sunscreen, water, and binoculars to fully enjoy the Azores Birdwatching Expedition.

The tour operates in English, though multilingual guides are available.

With a 4.8/5 customer rating, the expedition is praised for its transportation and value for money.

Guests should be aware the itinerary may change due to weather conditions, and specific animal sightings can’t be guaranteed.

The tour isn’t suitable for children under 4, pregnant women, individuals with back problems, or wheelchair users.

Customer Feedback

Customers rave about the Azores Birdwatching Expedition, awarding it an impressive 4.8/5 rating based on 12 reviews.

Highlights include:

1. Exceptional value for money, with praise for the reasonable pricing.

2. Knowledgeable, friendly guides who enhance the overall experience.

3. Well-organized transportation to the stunning locations.

4. Unique opportunity to observe a diverse array of seabirds in their natural habitat.

The tour’s standout features and customer satisfaction make it a must-do activity for anyone visiting the Azores archipelago.

Booking in advance is recommended to secure a spot on this popular excursion.

Seasons and Best Times

The Azores Birdwatching Expedition offers opportunities to observe a diverse array of seabirds year-round, though the spring and autumn seasons are particularly prime for spotting migratory species.

During these peak periods, travelers can expect to see Cory’s Shearwater, Barolo Shearwater, and a variety of terns and gulls, as well as the elusive Bulwer’s Petrel and Wilson’s Storm-petrel.

While sightings of rarer birds like Bridled or Sooty Terns are possible, the guides can’t guarantee specific species.

Regardless of the season, the expedition provides a unique chance to witness the rich avian life of the Azores’ coastal ecosystems.

Getting to the Azores

To reach the Azores for the birdwatching expedition, travelers can fly directly to Ponta Delgada Airport (PDL) on São Miguel Island, the largest and most populous of the nine volcanic islands that make up the Azores archipelago.

Travelers can fly directly to Ponta Delgada Airport (PDL) on São Miguel Island to reach the Azores for the birdwatching expedition.

Once there, travelers can:

1. Rent a car to drive themselves to the starting location for the tour.

2. Use public transportation such as buses or taxis to get to the meeting point.

3. Arrange private transfer services with the tour operator for a seamless start to the adventure.

4. Explore Ponta Delgada before or after the tour to experience the local culture and cuisine.

The Sum Up

The Azores Marine Birdwatching Expedition offers a captivating 3-hour tour that combines a scenic drive and a boat cruise around the stunning Islet of Vila Franca do Campo. Participants can explore the diverse marine birdlife, including Cory’s Shearwater and Bridled Terns, under the guidance of experienced wildlife experts. With high-quality binoculars and safety equipment provided, this expedition is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers.

You can check availability for your dates here: