We are truly passionate and fascinated by these animals, and every day we try to pass on a little of this passion, and our knowledge, to all those who choose us to live this experience.

We organise morning and afternoon trips, lasting between 3 and 4 hours. The species sighted may vary depending on the time of year, but we do have some species that are “resident” all year round, such as the Sperm Whale.

THIS IS A PRIVATE TOUR!

This option allows you to personalise your experience by renting our boat.

It’s ideal for families or groups of 6 or more people, where you can decide the direction of the trip and, within the time available, carry out the activities you want.

Included: Boat trip (approx. 4 hours) – Skipper and crew – Waterproof jacket and trousers – Life jacket – Personal accident and liability insurance

CANCELLATION POLICY

Cancellations can be made at any time, provided the company is notified in writing (via email or WhatsApp). You will receive a refund based on the following cancellation policy:

– Cancellations requested 7 days or more before the date of the activity, the client will receive a full refund of the amount paid.

– Cancellations requested between 4 and 6 days before the date of the activity, the customer will receive a 50% refund of the amount paid.

– Cancellations requested up to 72 hours before the date of the activity, the customer will not receive a refund.

No-shows resulting from cancelled or delayed flights will be eligible for a refund in accordance with our cancellation policy.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

– All aboard for a unique experience! We want our company to be inclusive and provide the best services to all our clients. We consider whale and dolphin watching to be an inclusive activity for all ages. Children under 14 must always travel accompanied by a responsible adult.

– Availability and start times: Every day from 1st March to 30th November. 2 trips per day. From 1 March to 30 September, the morning trip starts at 8.30am and the afternoon trip at 2.30pm. From 1 October to 30 November, the morning journey starts at 9.00 and the afternoon journey at 14.00. If, for any reason, there is a change to the timetable, the company will always notify you in advance.

– The meeting point for Whale Watching is the Azores Experiences Base, located in Unit B1 of the maritime-tourism activities building at Horta Marina, Santa Cruz Quay. We recommend arriving 10 minutes before the start of the activity.

– The maximum capacity of our boat is 16 people (14 clients, 1 skipper and 1 guide). In the case of larger groups, please contact us.

– The realisation of the trip is subject to weather conditions, unforeseen events and the existence of animals in our areas of action. If it is not possible to go on the trip, the amount paid will be refunded or a voucher will be issued to reschedule the trip.

– Azores Experiences offers waterproof jackets and trousers in various sizes (from M to XXXL) designed to fit different body sizes. However, the sizes are quite large. Therefore, for very young children, we recommend bringing your own jacket. If you prefer to wear one of ours, we will always provide jacket and trouser sizes according to our clients’ sizes.

– Azores Experiences also provides approved life jackets that must be worn on board. It provides one-size-fits-all inflatable life jackets (automatically and manually) for adults and foam life jackets for children and babies.

– What happens if we don’t see any cetaceans on the trip? If there are no sightings of cetaceans (whales OR dolphins) by the lookouts on the Whale Watching activity, Azores Experiences may offer to reschedule the trip, cancel the trip or conduct a search with the hydrophone. Azores Experiences will always recommend the best option according to the weather and sea conditions on each day. If the client chooses to go out searching with the hydrophone, the full price will be charged.

– During the activity we will be taking photos for research purposes. We can also take photos and videos of people before, during and after the activity for social media, marketing and other purposes. Unless otherwise stated in writing before the activity begins, the participant gives all rights and permission to use the audiovisual material taken during the activity.

In the event of a no-show, the full price will be charged.

We are truly passionate and fascinated by these animals, and every day we try to pass on a little of this passion, and our knowledge, to all those who choose us to live this experience.

We organise morning and afternoon trips, lasting between 3 and 4 hours. The species sighted may vary depending on the time of year, however we do have some species that are “resident” all year round, such as the Sperm Whale.

Included: Briefing – Boat departure – Skipper and crew – Waterproof jacket and trousers – Lifejacket – Personal Accident and Liability Insurance

CANCELLATION POLICY

Cancellations can be made at any time, provided the company is notified in writing (via email or WhatsApp). You will receive a refund based on the following cancellation policy:

– Cancellations requested 7 days or more before the date of the activity, the client will receive a full refund of the amount paid.

– Cancellations requested between 4 and 6 days before the date of the activity, the customer will receive a 50% refund of the amount paid.

– Cancellations requested up to 72 hours before the date of the activity, the customer will not receive a refund.

No-shows resulting from cancelled or delayed flights will be eligible for a refund in accordance with our cancellation policy.

The journey starts with a short briefing introducing Cetacean (Whales and Dolphins) local species, their migration and behavioural patterns, and onboard safety.

Follow the Guide and Skipper to your designated boat, and go out to sea. Lookouts high inland help locate our friends, and provide directions via VHF Radio to where the boat will travel, initially at high speed. Carefully approaching our friends, your Guide will keep you informed, collect field imagery and data for local research, and is always available throughout to provide answers to any specific questions – feel free to ask.

Marine Wildlife can be observed yearlong. More than 25 cetacean species are possible to observe, Sperm Whales are resident alongside 3 dolphin species, and abundant marine biodiversity.

Upon return to the Marina, the boat will tour around the Princess Ring Islet of Vila Franca do Campo, for a close look at the volcanic marvel and resident wildlife.

Know before you go:
● Eat light, bring your personal water supply, sunscreen, chapstick, sunglasses and warm clothing. Light food is permitted, and a camera is essential – protect any personal equipment.
● NOT FOR anyone pregnant, with weak back, in a wheelchair, in delicate health condition, or under the age of 4.

Inclusions
● Knowledgeable Wildlife Guide
● Experienced Skipper
● Zodiac RIB Boat (12 or 28 pax)
● Impermeable Full Suit and Life Vest
● Insurance

Exclusions
● Hotel Pickup and Drop-off
● Personal Water supply