Angra do Heroísmo’s Goat Islets offer a unique opportunity to take in the region’s natural and historical wonders. This 1-hour cruise allows visitors to witness the vibrant avian life and remnants of human habitation scattered across the islets. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, travelers can enjoy bird watching, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and exploring the crumbling stone walls and faded graffiti that hint at the islets’ past. Whether seeking adventure or relaxation, this wheelchair-accessible tour promises an unforgettable experience amidst the breathtaking beauty of the Azores archipelago. But beyond the allure of the islets themselves lies a deeper story, waiting to be uncovered.
Key Points
- A 1-hour cruise from Angra do Heroismo takes visitors to the Goat Islets, located 3.5 nautical miles away.
- The tour offers bird watching, sea bathing, and observation of human traces on the islets, with a knowledgeable local guide.
- The cruise follows a scenic, approximately 120-meter figure-eight pattern around the islets.
- The tour is accessible to wheelchair users and includes safety features like life jackets and insurance coverage.
- Customer reviews praise the tour’s reliability, unique wildlife, and historical insights provided by the guide.
Tour Overview
The tour is a 1-hour cruise around the Goat Islets, located 3.5 nautical miles from Angra do Heroismo.
Priced from $38.82 per person, the cruise is accessible to wheelchair users and offered in English, Portuguese, and Spanish.
Highlights include bird watching, bathing in the sea, and observing human traces on the islets.
The route follows an approximate 8-shaped path, covering around 120 meters.
Fuel, life jackets, and insurance are included, but the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women.
Visitors can book their spot without upfront payment and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Terceira.
Experience Highlights
Birdwatchers will delight in the diverse avian life found around the Goat Islets. A knowledgeable local guide leads the cruise, sharing insights about the islands’ history and ecology.
Visitors can enjoy a refreshing dip in the sea, as well as observe remnants of human habitation on the islets. The route follows an approximately 120-meter figure-eight pattern, allowing ample time to appreciate the stunning natural surroundings.
Key experience highlights include:
- Bird watching
- Local guide commentary
- Bathing in the sea
- Observing human traces
- Scenic figure-eight route
Booking Information
Customers can reserve a spot on the Goat Islets cruise without any upfront payment, thanks to the "Reserve now & pay later" option. Plus, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for travelers. To check availability and starting times, customers can conveniently view the schedule on the booking platform.
Booking Information | ||
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Reserve now & pay later | Free cancellation | Check availability |
Book spot without upfront payment | Cancel up to 24 hours in advance | View starting times |
Flexible booking | Full refund | Convenient scheduling |
Inclusions and Safety
The tour includes fuel, life jackets, and insurance to ensure the safety and comfort of participants. This comprehensive package means you can focus on enjoying the experience without worrying about additional costs or safety concerns.
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The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, as the boat ride and activities may pose a risk.
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Participants will receive a life jacket to wear throughout the tour, providing an extra layer of security while on the water.
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The fuel cost is included, allowing you to relax and take in the stunning scenery without having to worry about the logistics.
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The tour is covered by insurance, giving you peace of mind in case of any unforeseen events.
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The inclusions and safety measures ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit to the Goat Islets.
Customer Feedback
Visitors have praised the Goat Islets tour, awarding it an overall rating of 4.4 out of 5 based on 9 verified reviews.
Travelers from the United States and Germany have shared their positive experiences, highlighting the knowledgeable local guide and the opportunity to observe the unique wildlife and human traces on the islets.
The tour operates rain or shine, making it a reliable option for visitors.
While the experience isn’t suitable for pregnant women, the tour’s inclusions, such as fuel, life jackets, and insurance, ensure a safe and enjoyable trip around the scenic Goat Islets, located just 3.5 nautical miles from Angra do Heroísmo.
Bird Watching
Bird watching is a highlight of the Goat Islets tour, as the diverse range of avian species found in the area captivates visitors.
The tour guide’s expertise in identifying and sharing fascinating facts about the local birds enhances the experience.
Visitors can expect to spot:
- Seagulls gracefully gliding above the waves
- Shorebirds scurrying along the rocky coastline
- Cormorants perching on the islets, drying their wings
- Terns diving into the waters to catch their prey
- Migratory birds resting on the islets during their journeys
The tranquil environment and close proximity to the birds provide ample opportunities for birdwatchers to observe and appreciate the natural wonders of the Goat Islets.
Bathing in the Sea
During the Goat Islets tour, visitors have the opportunity to take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters surrounding the idyllic islets.
The tour route takes travelers close to the shoreline, allowing easy access to the inviting sea. Guests can enjoy a brief swim or simply wade in the shallow areas, cooling off from the warm sun.
The calm, sheltered coves provide a peaceful setting for this relaxing activity. Bathing in the sea is a highlight for many, offering a chance to connect with the natural beauty of the islets.
Whether staying in the water for a few minutes or longer, this experience adds to the overall enjoyment of the Goat Islets excursion.
Observing Human Traces
As visitors explore the Goat Islets, they’ll come across various human traces dotting the landscape.
These islands, once home to small settlements, now bear the marks of the people who once lived there. Visitors may spot:
- Crumbling stone walls and foundations, remnants of former structures
- Rusted metal objects, like old nails or tools, left behind by past inhabitants
- Weathered pottery shards and other discarded items, offering glimpses into daily life
- Faded graffiti or carved initials, testaments to the human presence on the islands
- Overgrown pathways and trails, once used by the islanders, now reclaimed by nature
These traces of human activity add to the captivating history and character of the Goat Islets, inviting visitors to imagine the lives and stories of those who came before.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?
The tour does not have any age restrictions, though it’s not suitable for pregnant women. Participants of all ages can enjoy the cruise around the Goat Islets from Angra do Heroismo.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat?
The tour allows passengers to bring their own food and drinks on the boat. However, the company recommends checking with them beforehand, as space may be limited on the small vessel.
Is There a Professional Photographer on the Tour?
The tour does not mention having a professional photographer on board. However, guests are free to take their own photos during the cruise around the Goat Islets.
Are There Any Stops on the Islands During the Cruise?
Yes, the tour includes stops on the islands during the 1-hour cruise. Travelers can go ashore and observe human traces, bathe in the sea, and enjoy birdwatching with the local guide.
Can I Swim Around the Islets During the Tour?
Passengers can swim around the islets during the tour, as the experience highlights "bathing in the sea" as one of its highlights. The cruise provides life jackets for safety.
Recap
The Goat Islets tour from Angra do Heroísmo offers a captivating 1-hour cruise showcasing the area’s stunning avian life and remnants of human habitation. Priced at $38.82 per person, this wheelchair-accessible experience provides opportunities for bird watching, swimming, and exploring historical traces. With a knowledgeable guide and flexible booking, the tour promises both adventure and relaxation amidst breathtaking natural beauty.
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