Blue Whales, Fin Whales, Sperm Whales Exclusive Small Group Tour
Blue Whales, Fin Whales, Sperm Whales and Humpback Whales
Pico Island, Azores
2023 DATES: 29 April – 06 May, 06 – 13 May
2024 DATES: 27 April – 04 May, 04 – 11 May
Prices from £990
Join this exclusive small group tour to witness one of nature’s great events, huge gatherings of the biggest whales on the planet to this remote and unspoilt Island to feed in the nutrient rich waters – a breath taking spectacle!
Overview
Location: Pico Island, Azores
What’s included:
- Return airport transfers
- 5 half day trips to sea on a RIB boat
- 7 nights accommodation in 3* harbour hotel with breakfast included
- Group meals with tour leader and guide at the beginning and end of the tour
- Exclusive guide services of tour coordinator
- Services of expert guides on boats and throughout the holiday
- Marine Biologist talks and preparation information
- Full day Pico tour to explore the Island, mountains, lakes, volcano and stunning views
Extra nights: Option to extend your stay in the Azores with extra nights at your hotel or visit other islands
Accommodation:
- Choice of accommodation with breakfast in a luxury hilltop villa, 3*** village hotel or one bedroom apartment with sea view. Option to upgrade to 4**** village hotel with pool for a supplement.
Meals: Breakfast included. Self catered options available.
Flights are not included. We give you guidance on booking flights to Pico Island, Azores (PIX). See location and flights above
2023 dates: 29 April - 06 May, 06 -13 May
2024 dates: 27 April - 04 May; 04 - 11 May
Optional activities: book additional trips to sea and land tours
About this holiday
Pico Island Ocean Giants
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On this exclusive tour, you have a rare opportunity to go out with a whale researcher and expert guide on one of the more remote islands of the Azores, Pico. Spending time on Pico gives a real taste of the traditions and heritage of the Azores as it is one of the less populated, more isolated volcanic islands of the archipelago. Enjoy breathtaking views of the dramatic geological formations and caves surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean crashing on to the black craggy cliffs of volcanic rock below.
The sightings here are exceptional with very few other boats. Pico Island formed from a volcano and the majestic Mt Pico stands tall above the island, luring many people to make the ascent to the top, above the clouds. The sides of the mountain also descend deep into the ocean on the south coast of Pico which sets up the perfect conditions for an upswell of the phytoplankton where the whales can feed. Our whale expert chooses to conduct his research here as the sightings are so exceptional. You will be given talks about whale behaviour and recent discoveries, with opportunities to observe their feeding, hunting and socialising. The research boat will go to areas off the main whale watching trail and will frequently be surrounded by curious dolphins and whales.
We offer this special small exclusive group tour for two weeks in April and May. The tour dates are set at the best time to get some excellent sightings of Blue whales, Fin and Humpback whales when they stop over to feed on the nutrient rich-water close to shore.
Dedicated group tour leader, marine biologist and whale researcher
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You will be part of an exclusive small group tour where you will meet other like-minded whale enthusiasts, accompanied by a tour coordinator,as well as expert marine biologists on all trips to sea.
Tour group coordinator and Whale Research on Pico Island
Your group tour coordinator – David Royce
We are delighted to have David on board as tour coordinator. He has an immense dedication and infectious enthusiasm for all things whale and dolphin and in our opinion is something of a “lay” expert!! He is very perceptive with a dry and measured sense of humour. He shares a lot of fascinating knowledge about the cetaceans with our guests. He is our person on the ground who will respond to your questions and help ensure everything runs smoothly. Also our skipper and marine biologist on board the boat ( Caesar and Roxy) as well as the boat company are all on hand to ensure you have the best experience possible. We have a boat base at the harbour which will be the hub to prepare for your voyages out to sea.
“My role on this trip” – David Royce
“I am delighted to be joining the team as your tour coordinator, on what will be my sixth trip to the Azores and third trip to Pico. I consider myself to be an experienced novice.
I have been fascinated by the islands for over the 15 years, the volcanic geography, the deep-ocean coastline and abundance of species of the North Atlantic. I will be with you on the quayside and on the boat each day to help and assist the expert crew, Roxy and Caesar.
I will also be available during the day to advise and help if I can and will join you for the onshore island trip.
The North Atlantic is a vast space, exhilarating experience and Azorean weather can cover three seasons in one day. Its never Winter, you will be pleased to learn but you will need both sun-blocker and waterproofs for some sessions.
I do not see myself as a cetacean expert, but I am an enthusiast. I do not see myself as a tour guide, but I am enthusiastic about Lajes and Pico and can answer your questions or find the answer for you!
In modern theatre parlance, we would probably call this an ‘immersive experience’ – you are going to see and experience things close-up. This is neither a theme park ride nor a virtual reality moment and the close attention and preparations of the crew enable your experience in safety and without discomfort.
It is different and there to be enjoyed. The weather, the ocean, the animals. It is a classic experience that gives truth to the notion that having the right gear (clothing) affords (us) urban dwellers the chance to experience something away from our daily lives.
Oh, did I mention the weather? Mostly warm, never cold, often wet and occasionally the wind will drop! That’s when you are on the ocean, when you are ashore there are always plenty of places to find a welcome, some comfort and shelter!
But you will never see a blue whale from the shore ……
I have had but two moments of insight to share from the past 15 years.
- If you sit on the harbour wall or at a table beside the harbour and face to the south (having checked the compass on your phone) and decide to set off on a voyage, then the next landfall would be Antartica.
- When you have seen a blue whale up close then life as a human being will never be quite the same again.
Add to that the volcano towering over the village and the stars at night, and you can be quite certain that you are not on holiday on the Costa del Sol. “
Rui Peres dos Santos, University of the Algarve.
David wrote:
“To my great good fortune, I met Rui 4 years ago when he was a skipper for Futurismo in Lajes and I was a guest on this tour. This is the man who helped fulfil my dream of seeing the blue whale on the last day of the trip! We had seen many species and spent some extra hours on the water when we probably should have been heading back to port. But eventually we found the blue whale and returned tired, giddy but ecstatic.
Of course, this cemented the friendship.
Before I left Lajes I asked Rui’s advice. So it was that 4 months later we both ended up in Quebec on the MICS field trip, Rui as skipper and doctoral research student, me as the enthusiastic volunteer.
*Last year Rui and is colleagues found a new North Atlantic connection for Humpback whales, between the Azores and Mursmansk in the Arctic circle. Rui is also a published author and his book will be available on the tour.
Richard Sears, Director, Mingan Island Cetacean Study (MICS) Quebec
Richard is commonly regarded as one of the world’s experts on blue whales. He has been returning to Pico for the MICS annual field trip for almost 40 years. It started when he was here visiting a Portugese scientist on Pico; there began a civil but hotly disputed ‘difference of opinion’.
Do blue whales migrate across the ocean on southern face of Pico?
The legend goes that during a debate/dispute in a villa on the hillside above Lajes, Richard saw a blow and remarked ‘Well, there’s a blue whale blow, right there’.
So began not only the annual field trip from Quebec, but also the impetus for local people to establish whale watching and attract eco-tourists to Lajes do Pico.
The purpose of the field trip remains just as it was 40 years ago – to attempt to photo-identify individual animals as they pass the island. These photos are loaded onto the historic North Atlantic database held by MICS, to be matched if possible with blue whales already logged on the existing base. Its important to notice that the cetacean research community honour each other and the common cause to such an extent that they ‘share’ all of their data.
This allows the scientists an opportunity to match animals photographed anywhere across the North Atlantic. That in turn provides analysis of blue whale migratory destinations such as Norway, Iceland, Newfoundland, Quebec, New England, Bahamas, everyone contributing to the growth of knowledge, which is just as well as we know so little of this retiring deep ocean species*.
Richard will be conducting his research at the same time and place as our tours. David Royce will be sharing and coordinating opportunities to learn about Richard’s research and attend some presentations during your stay.
“We were given short seminars after the trips recapping on what we had seen and allowing us time to consider what we had seen and to ask the marine biologist questions. They were always passionate about sharing their fascination for these animals and all things nature in general”
We take care of all the logistics so you can relax and enjoy the experience
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From the moment you step off the plane, our team will ensure everything is taken care of. You will be met at the airport and taken to your hotel where you will meet your expert guide over welcome drinks. Your guide will be with you throughout the duration of your holiday ensuring you get the best experience possible. There will be regular briefings and updates, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions.
Why are the Blue Whales ‘Ocean Giants’ choosing the Azores?
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Cetaceans are drawn to the Azores by the fertile water, rich in phytoplankton, which is the perfect place for the ‘baleen whales’ to stopover to feed en route north. Every year, a spring phytoplankton bloom warmed by the temperate waters of the gulf stream around the Azores archipelago attracts 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. Their numbers are increasing around the Azores and Pico Island which boasts some exceptional sightings.
Exclusive Boat
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The boats used are hard hulled inflatable RIB boats (exclusive use). The boats are very sturdy and can move easily and reach the whales swiftly, even if the sea is choppy. However, there can be some jerky movements on rougher seas. If you have back problems, or feel you prefer a boat with toilet facilities, we recommend you go on the Ocean Giants small group tour on Ponta Delgada as this tour uses a large stable catamaran.
Often, our boat is the only vessel around the animals which is very special. The research boats go to the best places to see the whales and approach with minimum disturbance in order to see as much natural behaviour as possible.
“We were on the boat 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, May 2018
Island tour included in your holiday
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We will start our tour through the central part of the island. Once at the top, we will visit Lagoa do Capitão, one of the most beautiful lakes in Pico. It is part of the protected landscape area of “zona central” and also a good place to observe resident and migratory birds as well as the native vegetation. Crossing the high plateau to the North Coast, we can enjoy excellent views of the ocean and the neighbour island São Jorge. From here we continue in the direction of São Roque where we get to know one of the many natural pools that is very appreciated by the local community.
At the town of São Roque we visit the Whaling Industry Museum where we will learn more about our history. From here, we drive through the coastline with stops at Cachorro and Lajido – ancient wine production places. There, we will find typical adegas (wine cellars) and other places associated with the golden wine age. After lunch at a local restaurant in Madalena, we will stop in the vineyards of Criação Velha, the most emblematic place to understand why Pico’s vineyard landscape was classified UNESCO Heritage in 2004. On the way back to Lajes we still have time to stop at the Mistery of São João, one of the latest volcanic eruptions of the island. This tour has it all: interesting facts about whales, wine, beautiful landscapes, local culture and traditions. It will give you a global overview of Pico Island.
Flights from the UK and mainland Europe via Lisbon or Porto to Pico Island
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It is easy to get to The Azores on flights from many UK and European airports, as well as from the USA. You can also travel via Lisbon and Porto from mainland Portugal.

Location and Flights
Holiday location: Pico Island (PIX) Azores.
The Azores are an archipelago of 9 islands in the middle of the Atlantic – the only territory between America and Europe. There are 3 groups of islands: the eastern group (Sao Miguel, Santa Maria), the central group (Faial, Pico, Sao Jorge, Terceira and Graciosa) and the western group (Corvo and Flores).
This holiday takes place on Pico Island – central group in the archipelago.
The abundance of dolphins and whales around the islands make the Azores one of the key locations worldwide for whale and dolphin watching. Few locations in the world offer such immaculate landscape and exceptional marine wildlife. A Portuguese territory, the nine islands, dominated by a volcanic mountain range, offer a rare and unspoiled natural beauty, having retained their cultural integrity and escaped the ravages of commercial tourism. There is a wild and elemental quality here, the ocean’s presence is never far away and breathing the air alone is invigorating. Some say, it is the last vestiges of the lost continent of Atlantis! There are meadows filled with the scent of wild herbs and vivid, colourful flowers line the roads. It is the perfect setting to relax and slow down.
Flights are not included in the cost of our holidays. On most days of the week there are flights from the UK to Pico Island via mainland Europe. You can also fly to Pico from Ponta Delgada, Sao Miguel Island which can be reached by direct flights from the UK, Europe, America and Canada.
For ease we have a dedicated flight booking agent, Rupender Bhoday from The Flight Centre. Rupender knows our holidays and can book the best flights for you. Please email: [email protected] or call: 07442 857639. You can also reach her via The Flight Centre main contact number 0207 925 1114 (ask to speak to Rupender Bhoday on the “Associates” team).

Itinerary
Day 1
Arrival in the Azores. Transfers to hotel. Welcome briefing and introductions, complimentary drinks, orientation in the local area. You have time for a rest! Schedule of whale-watching boat trips will be discussed and you will have a chance to meet the whole team and your guide, Rui Santos, during your complimentary dinner a local restaurant with group in the evening.
Day 2
Board the RIB Zodiac for morning whale-watching. At convenient times during the week you will be given audio-visual briefing about the whales and dolphins of the Azores, with lots of visuals and information about the history of whaling and whale-watching in the Azores. Your on board guide will provide in depth information about the wildlife and will be available to discuss the sightings, share his research and help you get the best shots of the whales!
Days 3 to 7
Overall itinerary of the week will be announced when you arrive to fit with best weather. Each day will be either morning or afternoon boat trip. There will be opportunities for excursions around the island to fit with your five half-day trips to sea. If there is any weather disruption your trips will be moved to another day or later in the day so that you go out during the best possible weather and conditions. Evening meals will be a combination of eating in the hotel restaurant and eating with the group and guide (subject to group preference). There will also be further talks and presentations from the marine biologist giving you a rich understanding of the whales of the Azores, local history and culture.
Day 8
Departure day. Transfer to airport from hotel.
Other activities
A full day tour of the island is included to give you a chance to appreciate the island’s rugged beauty and charm. Learn about the local culture, the volcanic origins of the island and see the vineyards, caves and mountain villages There is access to swim in the sea from a sheltered lagoon (temperature permitting), nearby walks, bird watching, snorkelling and diving. We also offer talks and presentations on marine and land birdlife. There is a whaling museum giving the history of the old whaling culture which stopped 25 years ago.
Highlights
Expert marine biologists in Pico
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This exclusive small group is led by an expert marine biologist and guide. They will run a programme of talks and activities. They are very enthusiastic and passionate about dolphins and whales.
On this tour, you will have a chance to assist the marine biologist with research: for example, photo ID, acoustic sampling wit the hydrophone and data collection.
View the whales underwater in ‘real’ time using an underwater Go Pro as they pass beside the boat.
Exceptional sightings
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In recent years, we have been blessed with some exceptional sightings. Our groups have seen Blue, Fin and Humpback whales on many occasions, some so close to the boat you could smell their ‘exhale’ which had the aroma of their over-indulgent feeding on the krill. Even when the weather is challenging, we are usually able to reschedule cancelled boat trips to another day.
Land based lookouts to locate the whales
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Our expert lookouts or ‘Vigia’ can spot the whales from land as they pass close to the volcanic islands and they direct the boats by radio contact to locate the whales. This makes for consistently excellent sightings, said to be some of the best in the world. It is a much more efficient system than searching for whales when out at sea. The lookouts were historically used to sight whales for hunting which was banned in the Azores nearly 30 years ago. The lookouts are employed by the whale watching companies instead for tourists to appreciate the beauty of these magnificent creatures rather than killing them – a true win for conservation.
Abundance of species
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The Azores boasts a tremendous variety of species with these giant migrating ‘Baleen whales’ frequently sighted in the spring as well as the resident Sperm whales who make the Azores their home as well as their breeding grounds. We frequently see the nursery groups of females with young. The abundance of dolphins are a delight, riding in the bow wave of the boat, leaping and twirling with joy. It is also possible to observe short finned Pilot whales, Orca, Bottlenose whales, seven species of dolphin, sea birds and marine life such as turtles and manta ray.
Responsible boat operators
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Our whale watching company has a research base offering a wealth of information and resources for our guests and it is possible to learn about the many research projects and conservation efforts being conducted around the Azores. Our guests are very impressed by the high standard offered by our boat company who are dedicated to offering you the best experience, as well as ensuring that all boat approaches are done in a responsible way where the welfare of the whales comes first.
What people said!
The cost of this tour varies according to your choice of accommodation. The standard accommodation is our 3* harbour hotel or you can upgrade to a 4* hotel, luxury villa or private house.
Prices for this Holiday including Acccommodation
Use the tabs below to find out more about our different accommodation options
With views across the ocean and towards Mount Pico and just 3 minutes walk to the marina, this hotel is in a great location. Rooms come equipped with satellite TV and a private bathroom with shower. Buffet breakfast is included. Ocean Giants Small Group Tour, Pico Island, Azores Prices
Including 3* BB at Hotel Bela Vista
£990 per person
Single person supplement £120
2023 Dates:
29 Apr – 06 May (available) & 06 – 13 May (available)
This beautiful hotel which has a unique and dramatic setting is perched on cliffs high above the Atlantic ocean. It is renowned as one of the top hotels in the Azores and is classed 4**** The villas are nestled in the beautiful mature gardens. This “Nature Hotel” is the perfect way to enjoy the blue of the ocean and the green of the gardens. The hotel has a sauna and Gym, natural salt water swimming pool and access to the sea. It consists of separate villas made of the local volcanic stone set in beautiful landscaped gardens. It is a haven of tranquillity, beauty and rustic charm where you feel the island’s elemental origins and breathe the unpolluted ocean air. It is surrounded by forests and vineyards and has fabulous views of the spectacular volcano which is dormant. Its landscaped gardens lend themselves to socialising in the garden-restaurant under vines and orange trees. There are also many magical and tranquil hidden away places to relax in hammocks or gaze out to sea. There is also a swimming pool and barbecue looking out to the ocean. Dolphins and whales can often be sighted from here. The owners and staff are friendly and hospitable hosts and the hotel has a very good standard of comfort and amenities. The hotel has a reasonably priced, excellent restaurant serving local fish and seafood, superb international cuisine, and offers an extensive and imaginative vegetarian selection. The Rooms Other Facilities There is a gym, sauna and relaxation area as well as a masseuse by request. There are two bars, one with a large lounge with sofas, a library and internet café. The hotel has WiFi. There is a shop with local artisan crafts. The hotel can arrange a cultural tour of the island with the wife of the owner of the hotel who is an expert on local history, culture, flora and fauna. She is the inspiration behind the gardens which are very beautiful. There are many nature walks in the forests nearby. Access to the sea for swimming is a 5 minute walk from the hotel along the cliff path. The Restaurant
The accommodation comprises private en-suite twin rooms with tv, and seating area. There are also studio en suite rooms which are bigger than the twin have two beds, sofa chairs, tea making facilities, a fridge and many have access to a terrace with views to the ocean or gardens. The suites are like private apartments. They have a master bedroom with a separate lounge with sofa bed (third person) and armchairs with a kitchen and bathroom. This is ideal for three sharing. The bedroom, lounge and bathroom all lead to a private entrance hall.
Our guests have use of the swimming pool which is situated in a dramatic location looking out to the ocean. It is a saltwater pool and is a perfect spot to relax and read a book or for the children to play.
The hotel restaurant is situated inside or during the summer you sit outside under the vines on the terrace. Our guests love the food which is renowned as the best restaurant on the island. Local fish and meat dishes are served as well as a wide range of international and vegetarian cuisine. The meals are all freshly prepared so take time over your meal which will be served by the restaurant staff. The wine menu has a selection of impressive local wines.Ocean Giants Small Group Tour, Pico Island, Azores Prices
Including 4* BB at Aldeia da Fonte Nature Hotel
£1240 per person
Single person supplement £190
2023 Dates:
29 Apr – 06 May (available) & 06 – 13 May (available)
Our luxury cliff-top villa with beautiful landscaped gardens and private pool, overlooks the sea and Mount Pico. The split level interior is tastefully designed and local stone, materials and labour were used wherever possible during its’ construction. The villa is well equipped for the convenience of our guests and breakfast is delivered to the property each morning by our local supplier. The pool, although unheated, has been specially insulated and is located in a sun-trap. The fantastic plant resource on the island was used as a basis for the planting. The Island has only one beach. It does however have many safe natural swimming areas, enhanced and improved, for the public to use. The nearest of these is directly in front of the Villa, less than a minute walk away. Ocean Giants Small Group Tour, Pico Island, Azores Prices
Including BB at our Cliff Top Villa
£1050 per person
Single person supplement £120
2023 Dates:
29 Apr - 06 May (available) & 06 – 13 May (available)
Situated in a traditional quiet village in Pico, surrounded by nature and just 5 minutes drive from the boat base our private house is the perfect base for discovering this unique island.
Reconstructed from two very ancient typical houses, it now provides exceptional comfort in beautiful surroundings. Traditional features include basalt walls, wooden floors and wooden ceilings that are combined with abundant natural light, generous open spaces, and exquisite contemporary details, making for a very comfortable yet unique experience. Guests have access to a full kitchen, balconies and terraces, a large dining room and a living room with television and musical instruments.
A traditional Azorean breakfast of fresh local produce is served in the dining room each morning.
Ocean Giants Small Group Tour, Pico Island, Azores Prices
£1080 per person
This price includes B&B, return boat transfers and return transfers for meals with your tour guide.
Single person supplement £120
2023 Dates:
29 Apr - 06 May (available) & 06 – 13 May (available)