Whales and the ocean have always been pivotal to life in the Azores and, as recently as 1985, the hunting of these magnificent mammals was one of the largest industries in the archipelago. Around 24 of the world’s 81 cetacean species are seen in the Atlantic waters of the Azores with at least 4 species – the Sperm whale, Bottlenose dolphins, Common dolphins and Risso’s dolphins – making these waters their home. 

Throughout the year the Azorean waters attracts a number of migratory cetacean species. In April, May, late September and October larger whales such as the Blue whale, Fin whale, Humpback whale, Sei whale and Minke whale pass through the Azores, whereas during the summer months and in winter time pods of Sperm whales are more likely to be seen.

Sunvil Discovery works closely with an established whale and dolphin operator on Sao Miguel. The emphasis of our trips is not only to see the mammals in their natural habitat but also on teaching and conservation. Each excursion starts with a 20-minute briefing, by a marine biologist, introducing the cetaceans of the Azores discussing their habitat, communication and behavioural patterns.

In 2005 98% of our excursions recorded sightings of dolphins and 50% sightings of whales (in good weather this statistic rises to 80%).

Day One:

Arrive at Ponta Delgada airport. Transfer to the Hotel Sao Miguel Park.

Days Two & Three:

Depart for a 3 hour whale and dolphin watching excursion.

Day Four:

Free day. Opportunity to explore the cobbled streets of Ponta Delgada, join an island tour, participate in a swimming with dolphins excursion (pre-bookable through Sunvil Discovery or through our local agent), or just relax.

Days Five & Six:

Depart for a 3 hour whale and dolphin watching excursion

Day Seven:

Free day. Opportunity to explore some of the island’s most attractive sights, indulge in some last minute shopping, or simply relax. The choice is yours.

Day Eight:

Transfer to Ponta Delgada airport for return flight home.

Whales usually spotted are:

Sperm, Blue, Pilot, Fin and occasionally Orcas (as these are not native to the Azores). About eighty species of cetaceans live on our planet and twenty-four of them can be found in the waters around the Azores.

Price includes:

• Direct scheduled flights with SATA International from London Gatwick to Ponta Delgada (Sao Miguel)
• 7-nights accommodation on a bed & breakfast basis as detailed. The Hotel Sao Miguel Park is located within a 25-minute gentle walk of the marina
• Transfers to/from Ponta Delgada airport are included. Transfers to/from the marina are not included.
• Four 3-hour whale and dolphin watching excursions.
• It is possible to change one or more whale and dolphin watching excursions for a swimming with dolphins trip. A supplement of £15 per trip applies for Apr, May and Oct, and £12 per trip between May-Sep.

Notes:

• The boats used for these excursions are mainly Zodiac boats (small, 6 metre long, rigid hull inflatables) carrying 7-12 people. These boats have been carefully chosen to allow safe and fast access to the whales and dolphins and do not disturb the mammals.
• We can not guarantee that you will see a cetacean but it is unlikely that you should be so unlucky.
• Alternative accommodation in Ponta Delgada can be booked at a supplement, please telephone us for a quotation.
• Important: Children aged 4 yrs or under, pregnant woman or any person suffering from severe back problems are not allowed on the whale watching boats. 

All holiday activities available on Sao Miguel >