The crystal-clear waters around Sao Miguel Island serve up some of Europe’s best maritime adventures. The standout tour circles Vila Franca Do Campo Islet, where dramatic volcanic cliffs house countless seabirds. Marine enthusiasts will love snorkeling at Ilhú Das Cabras, while whale watching excursions offer practically guaranteed sightings of sperm whales and several dolphin species. My favorite outing combines a morning cave tour from Rabo De Peixe with afternoon dolphin swimming – it’s the perfect mix of culture and wildlife. For families, I recommend the glass-bottom boat tours, which keep everyone dry while revealing the underwater spectacle. Let’s check out the top-rated boat tours on the island.
Key Points
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The Vila Franca Do Campo Islet Boat Tour offers a 30-minute tour with unique rock formations and seabird nesting sites for $32.54 per person.
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The Ilhú Das Cabras Snorkeling Tour is a 1.5-hour small-group experience with diverse marine life in a Special Protection Zone, priced at $47.24 per person.
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The Whale & Dolphin Watching on Pico Island excursion is a 3-hour tour with a high chance of spotting over 25 cetacean species, birds, and turtles.
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The Cave Boat Tour from Rabo De Peixe is a 3-hour exploration of volcanic caves, including the Ribeirinha Lighthouse and secluded swimming/snorkeling spots, priced at $73.49 per person.
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Various whale and dolphin tours in the Azores range from 2.5 to 4 hours, with a 90% sighting success rate, and include options for swimming with dolphins.
Boat Tour Around Vila Franca Do Campo Islet in Azores
One of the popular boat tours in Sao Miguel Island is the 30-minute exploration of the volcanic Vila Franca do Campo Islet. Priced from $32.54 per person, this tour allows visitors to circle the island and view its unique rock formations and nesting sites of local seabirds.
The tour is available in Portuguese, English, and Spanish, and is wheelchair accessible. Guests can’t swim, but they’ll get to peek inside the crater filled with turquoise seawater.
With a 5/5 rating based on 11 reviews, the tour is praised for its knowledgeable staff and great photo opportunities.
Bookings must be made 18-24 hours in advance and follow medical requirements.
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From Ilha Terceira: Ilhú Das Cabras Snorkeling Boat Tour
Nestled off the stunning coastline of Ilha Terceira, the Ilhéu das Cabras Snorkeling Boat Tour offers adventurous visitors a chance to enjoy the island’s captivating undersea world.
Priced from $47.24 per person, this 1.5-hour small-group experience allows you to explore a Special Protection Zone known for its diverse marine life.
Led by professional instructors, the tour includes equipment like masks, fins, and breathing tubes, along with a briefing on snorkeling techniques.
While not recommended for non-swimmers or young children, the tour has received overwhelmingly positive reviews, with customers praising the guided experience and the opportunity to spot a variety of marine species, including fish and stingrays.
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Pico Island: Azores Whale & Dolphin Watching on Zodiac Boat
Venture out from the stunning coastline of Ilha Terceira and discover the captivating marine life of Pico Island.
Hop aboard a 3-hour dolphin and whale watching excursion, departing from Lajes Do Pico. This guided tour, offered in Portuguese and English, provides the chance to spot over 25 species of cetaceans, along with birds and turtles.
The Zodiac rib boat, equipped with safety gear, will take you on an unforgettable journey. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and rescheduling is an option if conditions are unfavorable.
With an overall rating of 4.7/5 from 241 reviews, this is a must-do activity for nature enthusiasts visiting the Azores.
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Rabo De Peixe: Cave Boat Tour on the North Coast
Departing from the charming fishing village of Rabo de Peixe, this 3-hour cave boat tour takes visitors along the rugged north coast of São Miguel Island.
Priced from $73.49 per person, the tour allows guests to explore volcanic caves, see the Ribeirinha Lighthouse, and swim or snorkel at beaches like Moinhos and a secluded spot.
Highlights include viewing top surfing spots Santa Bárbara and Monte Verde, as well as observing the island’s marine biodiversity.
With a small group size limited to 7 participants, the tour provides an intimate experience led by knowledgeable, friendly guides in English, Portuguese, and Spanish.
While not suitable for those with mobility issues, the cruise earns high praise from past travelers for its balanced blend of relaxation and culture.
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Third: Whale and Dolphin Watching in a Zodiac Boat
Visitors to the Azores Islands can enjoy a thrilling 2.5 to 4-hour whale and dolphin watching tour in a zodiac boat. The tour departs from the Marina de Angra do Heroísmo, with a 90% sighting success rate thanks to a dedicated whale spotter.
Participants can spot whales and dolphins in their natural habitat, learning about these marine creatures from enthusiastic guides. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, insurance, and food and drinks.
However, it’s not suitable for pregnant women. With an overall rating of 4.8/5 based on 157 reviews, this is an excellent way to explore the stunning Terceira Island coastline and encounter fascinating wildlife.
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Azores: Whale Watching and Islet Boat Tour
The Azores: Whale Watching and Islet Boat Tour offers visitors a chance to enjoy the region’s marine wonders.
This 2-3 hour excursion provides an up-close look at cetaceans and other wildlife in their natural habitat. The tour begins with an informative briefing before setting out on a zodiac boat cruise to spot whales, dolphins, and more.
Guests will also visit the picturesque Princess Ring Islet, with opportunities for shopping at the nearby marina. Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour is well-organized and suitable for most participants, though certain restrictions apply.
At $65.09 per person, it’s a popular activity that often sells out, so booking in advance is recommended.
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Third: Boat Tour and Swimming With Dolphins
What better way to experience the natural beauty of Terceira Island than a boat tour and the chance to swim with dolphins?
This 1.5-hour excursion offers just that. Join a small group of up to 8 participants and embark on a journey with a marine biologist, who’ll share insights about the local marine life.
Swim alongside dolphins in their natural habitat, and observe the underwater world. The tour provides all necessary equipment, and safety is ensured as you remain connected to the boat.
Priced at $131.23 per person, this experience can be booked with no upfront payment and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
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Sao Miguel: Glass Bottom Boat Tour With Snorkeling
For those seeking a more immersive marine experience on Sao Miguel, the Glass Bottom Boat Tour with Snorkeling offers a chance to discover the island’s underwater treasures.
Priced from €50.00 per person, the 2-hour tour provides a glimpse into the Azores Sea’s vibrant marine life. Guests can view colorful fish, sea cucumbers, and starfish through the glass-bottom boat, then snorkel to get closer to the action.
A live biologist guide shares insights about the volcanic activity and various species. With options for Portuguese and English-speaking guides, free cancellation, and hotel pickup, this tour delivers excellent value for money, as evidenced by its 4.6/5 rating across 419 reviews.
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Ponta Delgada: Private Sunset Cruise With Drinks
Travelers seeking a private sunset cruise along the captivating coastline of Sao Miguel Island can embark on a 2.5-hour experience from the Portas do Mar marina pontoon in Ponta Delgada.
Priced from $367.44 per group (up to 5 participants), the cruise offers the opportunity to enjoy local wine and Azorean snacks while sailing at dusk and witnessing the sunset’s beauty.
The tour includes anchoring in a bay for swimming and snorkeling, as well as sights like Ilhéu de São Roque and Praia das Milicias.
With a 5/5 rating based on 33 reviews, this private sunset cruise is a highly recommended activity, featuring excellent transportation, value for money, and positive experiences.
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Ponta Delgada Full Day Sailing Tour With Snacks
Although the Private Sunset Cruise offers a more intimate experience, the Ponta Delgada Full Day Sailing Tour with Snacks provides a comprehensive exploration of São Miguel Island’s scenic south coast.
Priced at $682.39 per group, the full-day tour departs at 10 a.m. and returns at 5 p.m., allowing ample time to sail along the coastline, stop for swimming and snorkeling, and admire the Islet of Vila Franca do Campo.
With an English-speaking instructor and complimentary drinks and snacks, the tour caters to private groups of up to 5 participants.
Reviewers praise the excellent organization, friendly crew, and scenic beauty, making this a recommended experience for those seeking an in-depth boat tour of São Miguel.
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Recap
São Miguel Island offers a variety of captivating boat tours and cruises. Whether you’re interested in exploring islets, snorkeling with marine life, or enjoying a sunset sail, there’s an excursion to suit your preferences. These tours provide an excellent opportunity to experience the Azores’ stunning natural beauty from the water. With so many options available, visitors are sure to find a boat tour that matches their interests and budget.