This holiday includes our “Be a Marine Biologist for a Day” full day tour (picnic lunch on boat included). This is a fully immersive day and once in a life time opportunity allowing you to step inside the shoes of our marine biologists and assist them in their research. This is the perfect program for those with a keen appetite to learn and see some of the research techniques used by our experienced marine biologists. You will spend 4 hours at sea in a small group on a RIB zodiac boat learning about data collection, photo ID and listening to underwater acoustics using the hydrophone. After the trip the group will spend an additional 2 hours in the classroom at our boat base for presentations and talks and to ask our expert marine biologist lots of questions!

As you have a full day at sea you will be taken away from the main tourist trail, travelling further along the coast. Your experience will be more relaxed with more time to spend with the animals, giving you a closer look into the lives of these creatures. You will feel part of their world! 

Our boats are RIB hard hull boats with comfortable seats for an exhilarating ride to get you close to the action. The boats are very sturdy and can move easily even if the sea is choppy. On shore lookouts, called “Vigia” guide us by radio contact and direct the boats to the whales and dolphins. This makes for consistently excellent sightings, the best in the world some say!

Our knowledgeable local guides will be with you at sea and also on land so you will have a truly authentic experience!  They will take you to the geysers deep in the island’s interior at Furnas and teach you about the geothermal activity. Your visit will include a swim in hot thermal pools and lunch (cooked underground) in a local restaurant. Free time can be spent with yourfamily exploring the island at your leisure, on foot on bike or by kayak, visiting the stunning botanical gardens, enjoying presentations from our marine biologist guides or simply relaxing by the pool. 

We offer attractive child prices (12 years and under) when sharing a large quad room with adults and also teen discounts. You can select the style and budget of an accommodation option that suits your needs. Our standard 4* hotel is included in the package price and you can upgrade to a boutique 5* hotel or you can opt for a budget option to reduce the cost of holiday.

Learn about the biology, habitat and behaviour of the cetaceans. Participate in valuable research and conservation initiatives to preserve the oceans for future generations. Our whale-watching company has a research base offering a wealth of information and resources and it is possible to learn about the many research projects being conducted around the Azores. Our expert researchers and marine biologists make learning fun and accessible to all.

You will be accompanied by our expert local guides and marine biologists who love to share their extensive knowledge on the whales and dolphins you’ll meet – what they don’t know isn’t worth knowing. There will be talks before heading out to sea so you will be well prepared.

Spring is an incredibly exciting time in the Azores and definitely the best time to go. Take a voyage of discovery beneath the ocean with our local marine biologists. This holiday takes you out to the open seas to see these ocean giants and teaches you all about these incredible creatures and the creation of the islands, that took place over 20 million years ago.

You’ll all come away bursting with facts about the world’s largest whales and the unique biodiversity of the islands. We hope you will deepen your passion for the natural world and more importantly return home with memories that will last a lifetime.

“We were on the cat and a huge gasp went up from everyone on board; a fin whale had swum in front of the boat and opened its mouth out of the water to feed. It was only a split second but that sight is engraved on my memory.” Margaret Merris 

Cetaceans are drawn to the Azores as they know there is a plentiful food supply. In the Springtime there is a  phytoplankton bloom warmed by the temperate waters of the Gulf Stream around the Azores archipelago which has resulted in a unique gathering of huge, ravenous Blue, Fin, Sei and Baleen Whales (largest whales) on their migration routes to the feeding grounds of the northern Atlantic. This is one of nature’s great events, the whale equivalent of an all you can eat buffet – this is why we call it the “Gulp Stream”.

“The Azores is one of the best places in the world to see Blue Whales with such an abundance and variety of species. These fascinating Islands at sea and on land are easy to reach from Europe on a direct 3 hour flight!”  

The Azores archipelago is renowned as one of the best places to see dolphins and whales in the wild. Throughout the year, March to October being the best time to visit for abundant sightings and diversity of species. The whale numbers and sightings seem to be increasing around the Azores, as are the super pods of various species of dolphins riding in the bow wave of the boat and leaping and twirling with joy. All our trips are with responsible operators who have sensitivity and respect for the wellbeing of the whales and dolphins. The ethos on the Islands is to preserve the natural environment and develop responsible and sustainable tourism that contributes to conservation.

Our knowledgeable local guides will be with you at sea and also on land so you will have a truly authentic experience!  They will take you to the geysers deep in the island’s interior at Furnas and teach you about the geothermal activity. Your visit will include a swim in hot thermal pools and lunch (cooked underground) in a local restaurant. Free time can be spent exploring the island at your leisure, on foot on bike or by kayak, visiting the stunning botanical gardens, enjoying presentations from our marine biologist guides or simply relaxing by the pool.

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The dates of these holidays are the best time to see the largest whales on the planet as they migrate past the Islands ensuring you get the most amazing sightings and memories that will stay with you. LINK TO BEST TIME TO VISIT THE AZORES

You will be accompanied by our expert local guides and marine biologists who love to share their extensive knowledge on the whales and dolphins you’ll meet – what they don’t know isn’t worth knowing. There will be talks and presentations before heading out to sea so you will be well prepared. LINK TO MORE INFORMATION ABOUT OUR GUIDES

Our whale watching company has a research base offering a wealth of information and resources and it is possible to learn about the many research projects being conducted around the Azores which contribute to marine conservation. LINK TO MORE INFORMATION ABOUT MARINE EDUCATION AND CONSERVATION

You choose your preference of boats from the large stable catamaran with excellent viewing platforms, railings and a great vantage point for taking photos. There is plenty of space to walk around outdoor or indoor seating and toilet facilities OR our smaller RIB zodiac hard hull boats with comfortable seats for an exhilarating ride to get you close to the action. The boats are very sturdy and can move easily even if the sea is choppy.   LINK TO MORE INFORMATION ABOUT BOATS

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Follow in the footsteps of the first settlers as you trace your way across ancient foot paths and animal trails taking in dramatic coastlines, shimmering blue and green lakes, yawning calderas and ancient sub-tropical forests. Centuries ago the main way to travel around the island was by boat as terrain made it impossible to use oxcarts or carriages, smaller cargo and cattle was transported across land on foot. In recent years great care has been taken to restore these pathways so that you can marvel at glittering waterfalls, witness nature’s bounty of flowers plants and trees and look down into the depths of the deep green crater lakes as you hike along the rim of a volcano, all untouched for millennia.

Our incredible guides will enthuse you with their knowledge of numerous endemic species of birds, flora and fauna and the incredible biodiversity of these islands, which erupted from the ocean over 200 million years ago!

Walking difficulty levels range from gentle to strenuous, half day and full day options and you can opt for self-guided if you prefer. There are numerous routes and we can help you choose the best ones for you and your family.

The Azores are a perfect year-round destination. Located in the Northern Hemisphere, they enjoy a mild climate 12 months of the year. In the peak of summer temperatures tend to be around 22°C and don’t often drop below 13°C in the winter. Perfect conditions for walking!

Our whale watching boats operate all year round as well. Weather is, of course, changeable out in the middle of the ocean but our expert guides will arrange your week so that you take your whale watching excursions during optimum sea conditions. Walking options inland and along the coast mean you will always have great opportunities to see whale tails or walking trails whatever the weather.

This is an ideal winter holiday, leave behind the wind and the rain and take this opportunity to get some, very, fresh air and enjoy the great outdoors. The mild climate means there is no need for woolly hats and thermals and the biodiversity of the island blooms year round. You’ll see no bare trees here, only lush green foliage! At night gaze up at starry skies and indulge in the thermal hot pools, forty minutes away from your hotel. Some of the walking trails even lead you directly to them in the town of Furnas.

The Azores archipelago is renowned as one of the best places to see dolphins and whales in the wild. Throughout the year, March to October being the best time to visit for abundant sightings and diversity of species. The whale numbers and sightings seem to be increasing around the Azores, as are the super pods of various species of dolphins riding in the bow wave of the boat and leaping and twirling with joy. All our trips are with responsible operators who have sensitivity and respect for the wellbeing of the whales and dolphins. The ethos on the Islands is to preserve the natural environment and develop responsible and sustainable tourism that contributes to conservation.

We offer attractive child prices when sharing a one bedroom self catering apartment (with option to purchase breakfast at the hotel). You can select the style and budget of an accommodation option that suits your needs. Our standard 4* hotel is included in the package price and you can upgrade to a boutique 5* hotel. There is a budget option to reduce the cost of your holiday.

You’ll come away bursting with facts about the world’s largest whales and the unique biodiversity of the islands. We hope you will deepen your passion for the natural world and more importantly return home with memories that will last a lifetime.

This is a superb opportunity to truly experience everything the Azores has to offer. World renowned for it’s incredible ocean life the Azores is also infamous for it’s incredible biodiversity and geothermal activity. Exploring the island on foot with our expert guides, you will learn about the islands creation over 200 million years ago and witness it’s incredible beauty and majesty. Take a day off and visit Furnas, feel your muscles relax as you soak in the nourishing thermal hot pools.

Our whale watching company has a research base offering a wealth of information and resources and it is possible to learn about the many research projects being conducted around the Azores which contribute to marine conservation. Our guides and researchers have plenty of experience working with children and always make learning fun and accessible for all. 

You choose your preference of boats from the large stable catamaran with excellent viewing platforms, railings and a great vantage point for taking photos. There is plenty of space to walk around outdoor or indoor seating and toilet facilities OR our smaller RIB zodiac hard hull boats with comfortable seats for an exhilarating ride to get you close to the action. The boats are very sturdy and can move easily even if the sea is choppy.

Your experience starts with a briefing to learn how to swim in the open ocean with the wild dolphins. It is important you are familiar with wearing a mask and snorkel or learn before you go out. Our expert guides will ensure you know what to expect and your safety and confidence are at the heart of the preparation.  We supply wetsuits and snorkelling equipment as part of the holiday. You will go out to sea in small groups of 8 people and the way the boats approach the dolphins and swimmers enter the water follows responsible guidelines

“The numbers of boats were well regulated and the dolphins are approached responsibly with minimum disturbance. We found the guides looked after us and as confidence grew during the week we had some very exciting moments seeing the dolphins right beneath us, truly magical ” Anne Johnson and family

A short distance from the shore we will be guided to the dolphins with the assistance of our expert land based lookouts. It is an absolute joy see large pods of dolphins leaping with joy over the ocean waves, jumping and dancing in the bow waves just an arms’ length beneath your gaze. Both in the water and watching from the boats, you will feel part of the dolphin’s magical underwater world, seeing their exquisite movements and listening to a symphony of sound. It usually takes a little time to get confident and you will be assisted all the way as you climb off the boat and look beneath you. It is a very exhilarating feeling and we ensure all approaches by the boats and people are done with minimum disturbance where the encounters are on the dolphin’s terms. They are very curious and it is a delight to witness their natural behaviour hunting, socialising and playing.

The Azores archipelago is renowned as one of the best places to see dolphins and whales in the wild. Throughout the year, March to October being the best time to visit for abundant sightings and diversity of species. The whale numbers and sightings seem to be increasing around the Azores, as are the super pods of various species of dolphins riding in the bow wave of the boat and leaping and twirling with joy. All our trips are with responsible operators who have sensitivity and respect for the wellbeing of the whales and dolphins. The ethos on the Islands is to preserve the natural environment and develop responsible and sustainable tourism that contributes to conservation.

We offer attractive child prices (12 years and under) when sharing a large quad room with adults, and also teen discounts. You can select the style and budget of an accommodation option that suits your needs. Our standard 4* hotel is included in the package price and you can upgrade to a boutique 5* hotel. There is a budget option to reduce the cost of your holiday.

Our expert dolphin swim guides and marine biologists are there to ensure you get the most from this holiday. They have plenty of experience working with children and make learning and safety fun!

During your whale watching excursion you will be accompanied by our expert local guides and marine biologists who love to share their extensive knowledge on the whales and dolphins you’ll meet – what they don’t know isn’t worth knowing. There will be talks before heading out to sea so you will be well prepared.

The “Vigia” or land based lookouts on the shore guide us by radio contact to direct the boats to the whales and dolphins. This makes for consistently excellent sightings, the best in the world some say! We see whales & dolphins on 98% of our trips to sea.  Our guests are very impressed by the high standard offered by our boat company who are dedicated to offering you the best experience, nothing is too much trouble.

Before you embark on your Swimming with Dolphins adventure you will be given pre-trip preparation information and a safety briefing on board the boat. Our guides are there to look after your safety every step of the way. They will give you tips on how to behave in the water to ensure you have some incredible encounters with the dolphins and by the end of the week you will know so much about these beautiful marine mammals, their behaviour and communication as well as having lots of interesting scientific facts about how they live and information on conserving the habitat of the dolphins.

We do everything to minimize disturbance upon the dolphins and their habitat. We invite our guests to be involved, giving feedback when on the water and ensuring all operators are following the best practice guidelines.

Your experience starts with a briefing to learn how to swim in the open ocean with the wild dolphins. It is important you are familiar with wearing a mask and snorkel or learn before you go out. Our expert guides will ensure you know what to expect and your safety and confidence are at the heart of the preparation. As part of the holiday we supply wetsuits, which provide bouyancy, as well the snorkelling equipment and snorkelling life jackets. If you have younger children you may prefer to bring their own masks that they have practiced with. You will go out to sea in small groups of 8 people and the way the boats approach the dolphins and swimmers enter the water follows responsible guidelines.

A short distance from the shore we will be guided to the dolphins with the assistance of our expert land based lookouts. It is an absolute joy see large pods of dolphins leaping over the ocean waves, jumping and dancing in the bow waves just an arm’s length beneath your gaze. From both the water and watching from the boats, you will feel part of the dolphin’s magical underwater world, seeing their exquisite movements and listening to a symphony of sound. It usually takes a little time to get confident and you will be assisted all the way as you climb off the boat and look beneath you. It is an exhilarating feeling and we ensure all approaches by the boats and people are done with minimum disturbance – the encounters are on the dolphin’s terms. They are very curious and it is a delight to witness their natural behaviour while hunting, socialising and playing.

You can immerse yourself in the underwater world of the dolphins taking three to five trips (three hour duration) to the open sea with masks and snorkel. Each time is different and as you get the hang of it you will have more and more amazing experiences. We prefer people have as many opportunities as possible so the experience is not rushed and we can be calm as we share the underwater world with minimum disturbance.

“One of the best places in the world to see whales and dolphins”

We offer attractive child prices (12 years and under) when sharing a large quad room with adults, and also teen discounts. You can select the style and budget of an accommodation option that suits your needs. Our standard 4* hotel is included in the package price and you can upgrade to a boutique 5* hotel. There is a budget option to reduce the cost of your holiday.

You will take home some beautiful memories that you and your family will treasure. Special moments shared on this adventure of a lifetime will provide you with amazing stories to tell for years to come.

“When I asked my 10 year old daughter if this holiday was better than Disneyland, her answer was an astounding YES and a big smile.” Linda Dempsey.

You and your family will learn about responsible boat approaches from our expert skippers and how to behave in the water in a relaxed and confident way which results in minimum disturbance to the dolphins’ natural behaviour. This also means the animals will be calm with us rather than swimming away to avoid us.

Our expert dolphin swim guides and marine biologists are there to ensure you get the most from this activity. They give pre-trip preparation information and safety briefing on board, looking after your safety every step of the way. They will give you tips on how to have really great encounters so at the end of the week you will feel you really know a lot about these beautiful marine mammals, their behaviour and communication. You will learn interesting scientific facts about how they live with information on conserving the habitat of the dolphins.

We do everything to minimize disturbance upon the dolphins and their habitat. We invite our guests to be involved, giving feedback when on the water and ensuring all operators are following the best practice guidelines.

“A thriving, simply stunning natural environment at sea and on land that offers an incredible learning experience” Billy Whyte, Brighton

The week-long program ensures you get the best opportunities for sightings and that you become skilled and relaxed in the water swimming with wild dolphins. They will accept you as part of their world and can be very curious. The dolphins are often found close to the shore in smaller groups or you can meet the super pods of hundreds of dolphins. Your trips are booked in advance going out from less-crowded areas. If there is any bad weather you will be given priority replacement of trips.

“The wild dolphins can often be found close to the shore and they are very curious to ride in the bow wave of the boat – we were very close to their shimmering skin as they burst through the crystal clear water coming  up to breathe. 

There were so many dolphins leaping and twirling, it was as if the sea itself was alive!”