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 Baleen Whales: Blue, Fin and Humpback 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 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 talks from our marine biologist guides or simply relaxing by the pool.

You can select the style and budget of an accommodation option that suits your needs. We include a 3* or 4* hotel subject to availability in the package price but you can upgrade to a 5* hotel or boutique property if you wish.

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.

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. 

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. 

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.