Portugal · BOAT TOURS IN THE AZORES
This is the shortlist to send a friend: 9 boat tours in the Azores worth the money, each with its price, its traveller verdict and the one thing to know before you commit.
Search for whales and dolphins with marine biologists, then circle Vila Franca Islet on a fast, scenic Azores boat tour.
“We saw lots of dolphins and even a blue whale. Our guide Mateo and our skipper Miguel were great”
Review the Azores whale-watching RIB tour from Vila Franca do Campo, with marine biologists, dolphins, whales, and the Princess Ring Islet.
“Great tour! Saw lots of dolphins. Unfortunately did not see whales but animals are unpredictable and sightings are not guaranteed. Saw the islet which is amazing. Overall it was a great morning.”
Explore São Miguel’s Vila Franca islet by glass-bottom boat, learn from marine biologists, and snorkel among fish, starfish, and volcanic rock.
“We had a lot of fun, first we thought the snorkeling might be a bit short, cuz the Guide talked alot about Fish & Vegetation, but we had a long time in the Water und even beyond the 2hours we were busy close up to 3 hours. The guide kept us as a group during the trip in the water and frequently asked if anybody wants ro go back to the boat. The Captain was also quite funny and very friendly. Totaly recommend that tour!”
Review of Pico Island’s $53 whale and dolphin Zodiac tour, with wildlife, guide tips, boat comfort, weather advice, and booking details.
“It was great experience and we really enjoyed it☺️ Thank you!”
Review of Terceira’s 2.5-hour zodiac whale watching tour, with dolphins, whales, expert guides, practical tips, price, comfort, and value.
“It was a fun tour. The boat was not ideal for watching but our guide was so accommodating and definitely was trying to make sure everyone was enjoying themselves and had somewhere to view from. We saw two whales and some dolphins.”
Review of Horta’s 3-hour university whale-watching RIB trip, with marine biologists, dolphins, sperm whales, seabirds, and practical tips.
“Amazing experience! Really enjoyed the tour, Guide was really knowledgeable and explained everything in details. We were lucky to sea a massive group of dolphins and 5 sperm whales 🐋😊 Our marine biologist was very knowledgeable and it was just great to hear about animals while we were able to sea them. It was a bit turbulent during the drive, because of the weather. But it all doesn’t matter once you spot a big whale on a surface and shortly after 4 more 🐋 Definitely would recommend! They really care about making sure that you will see the animals - twice after waiting captain was moving the boat to a…”
Sail from Flores to Corvo for caves, waterfalls, whales, and the Caldeirão crater, with five hours to explore the island at your own pace.
“The trip was absolutely amazing!! Hugo, our skipper, was absolutely fantastic and took us on an awesome trip around Flores when we were returning. The ride out was easy and Hugo was always checking in to make sure everyone was okay during the ride there and back. Once we arrived at Corvo, we were met with some drivers to take us to the top for €10/per person (cash) for round trip. It was well worth it for us and it was very easy. Once at the top, we were free to roam around as much as we wanted until our scheduled pick up time. After that, we got to explore…”
Review of Faial’s Capelinhos boat tour, with volcano views, sea caves, wildlife, practical tips, pricing, and family suitability.
“Overall the trip was good. Our guide - Camila - could not have been nicer and more informative. I felt she was genuinely interested in making sure everyone was comfortable and having a good time. The scenery is exceptional. Unfortunately, their regular boat was broken down so they utilized a zodiac which was a bit small and sometimes hard to see from. But it is definitely a trip work taking.”
Sail São Miguel’s southern coast at sunset with wine, swimming, snorkeling, paddleboards, and a private crew from Ponta Delgada.
“We went with a large group so the boat was private. The guide was amazing and very friendly. The waves are a bit choppy unfortunately so definitely prepare if you get seasick easily on small boats. The swimming section was amazing. Make sure you pick a day that’s less cloudy so you can see a proper sunset”
From the cave boats to the cellar tastings, and the best of each.
