Boat Tour Around Vila Franca Do Campo Islet in Azores

The stunning volcanic islet of Vila Franca do Campo in the Azores archipelago offers a captivating boat tour that promises an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts. Gliding through the crystal-clear waters, visitors can marvel at the vibrant crater filled with turquoise seawater, while knowledgeable guides provide insights into the region’s remarkable geological history. But the true highlight of this excursion lies in the unique opportunity to observe the diverse seabird species nesting in their natural habitat, offering a rare glimpse into the rich wildlife of this remarkable island.

This experience made our list of the 10 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Sao Miguel Island.

Key Points

• The 30-minute boat tour offers stunning views of the unique volcanic landscape and nesting seabirds around the Vila Franca do Campo Islet.
• The tour explores the turquoise waters of the volcanic crater, providing an opportunity to witness the geological formation firsthand.
• The tour is accessible to wheelchair users with some restrictions, and pricing starts at €28.87 per person.
• Reservations can be made with a pay later option, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.
• Customers have rated the tour 5/5, praising the knowledgeable guides, high-quality transportation, and exceptional value for money.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The boat tour around Vila Franca do Campo Islet is an opportunity for visitors to explore the unique volcanic landscape off the south coast of São Miguel island in the Azores.

The 30-minute activity takes participants on a journey around the islet, where they can observe nesting sites of local seabirds and peek into the crater filled with turquoise seawater.

The tour is accessible to wheelchair users with some restrictions and is offered in Portuguese, English, and Spanish.

Priced from €2,887 per person, the boat tour provides a chance to discover the geological wonders of this captivating volcanic island.

Booking Information

To book the boat tour around Vila Franca do Campo Islet, customers can reserve now and pay later without any upfront payment.

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

However, the tour isn’t suitable for certain groups, including children under 8, pregnant women, wheelchair users, babies under 1 year, and people over 70.

The booking information highlights the flexibility and convenience for customers, while also setting appropriate expectations about the tour’s accessibility.

Experience Highlights

Journey around the volcanic island and explore unique rock formations. On this boat tour, guests will have the opportunity to observe nesting sites of local sea birds, including the Garajau-comum (sterna hirundo).

The highlight of the experience is the chance to peek inside the crater filled with turquoise sea water.

This tour offers:

1. Stunning views of the volcanic landscape
2. Up-close encounters with diverse seabird species
3. Exploration of the crater’s mesmerizing turquoise waters
4. Knowledgeable guides providing insightful commentary

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking a unique adventure, this boat tour around Vila Franca do Campo Islet promises an unforgettable experience.

Tour Inclusions

This boat tour includes everything needed for an enjoyable and hassle-free experience.

The tour provides a boat ride around the magnificent Vila Franca do Campo Islet, along with comprehensive insurance coverage. Guests don’t need to worry about transportation, as pickup and drop-off services are included.

While food and drinks aren’t provided, the tour ensures a memorable journey with its focus on the stunning natural scenery and wildlife.

Whether you’re interested in the unique rock formations, observing nesting seabirds, or exploring the crater’s turquoise waters, this boat tour offers a well-rounded experience packed into a convenient 30-minute excursion.

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Customer Feedback

With an impressive 5/5 overall rating based on 11 reviews, the boat tour around Vila Franca do Campo Islet has consistently satisfied customers.

Reviewers praised the tour’s transportation, noting it was 5/5 in quality. Customers also highlighted the exceptional value for money, rating it 5/5.

Key highlights from the reviews include:

• Knowledgeable and friendly guides providing insightful commentary
• Stunning landscapes and unique geological formations
• Opportunity to observe nesting seabirds in their natural habitat
• Overall, a memorable and enjoyable experience for visitors.

Volcanic Landscapes

As visitors embark on the boat tour, they’re immersed in the volcanic landscapes surrounding Vila Franca do Campo Islet.

The islet itself is the remnant of an ancient volcanic cone, with striking rock formations and a crater filled with turquoise seawater.

Throughout the journey, passengers can observe the unique geological features shaped by volcanic activity over time.

The boat navigates around the island, providing close-up views of the rugged cliffs and caves that have formed along the coastline.

This volcanic backdrop sets the stage for the diverse array of seabirds that nest on the islet, including the common tern, known locally as the Garajau-comum.

Birdwatching Opportunities

During the boat tour, visitors have the chance to observe the nesting sites of various seabirds that call Vila Franca do Campo Islet home.

The islet is a haven for local species, including:

1. Garajau-comum (common tern)
2. Rabo-de-junco (Phaethon lepturus)
3. Cagarra (Calonectris diomedea)
4. Freira-do-bugio (Pterodroma feae)

These birds thrive in the protected, rocky environment, providing an exciting opportunity for birdwatchers to catch a glimpse of their natural behaviors.

With the guidance of knowledgeable tour guides, visitors can learn about the unique characteristics and conservation efforts surrounding these remarkable seabird populations.

Crater Lake Exploration

The centerpiece of the boat tour is the opportunity to explore the crater lake nestled within the islet. This turquoise-hued caldera is a breathtaking natural wonder, filling visitors with a sense of awe and wonder. Visitors can peer into the serene waters, marveling at the unique geological formation. The tour provides an up-close look at this captivating feature, allowing guests to fully enjoy the island’s volcanic origins.

Crater Lake Features
Water Color	Turquoise
Water Depth	40-50 meters
Lake Diameter	Approximately 300 meters
Formation	Volcanic Caldera
Accessibility	Boat Tour Only

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There an Age Limit for Participating in the Tour?

The tour is not suitable for children under 8, pregnant women, wheelchair users, babies under 1 year, or people over 70. These age and mobility restrictions are in place to ensure the safety and comfort of all participants.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat?

Passengers can’t bring their own food and drinks on the boat tour. The tour includes all necessary provisions, such as insurance and pickup and drop-off services. It’s best to rely on the tour operator’s offerings.

What Type of Boat Is Used for the Tour?

The tour uses a boat designed for sightseeing around the islet. It’s a comfortable, open-air vessel that can accommodate passengers and provide them with panoramic views of the unique rock formations and wildlife.

Are There Any Special Requirements for Wheelchair Users?

Wheelchair users can participate in the tour, but with some restrictions. The tour is wheelchair accessible, though there may be limited space and maneuvering on the boat. Visitors should contact the provider for specific details on accessibility accommodations.

How Often Do the Boat Tours Depart?

The boat tours around the Vila Franca do Campo Islet depart regularly throughout the day, though the specific schedule may vary. Visitors are advised to check the tour operator’s website or inquire about departure times when making their booking.

Recap

The boat tour around Vila Franca do Campo Islet in the Azores offers a captivating 30-minute journey through a stunning volcanic landscape. Guests can observe diverse seabird species and explore the vibrant crater lake filled with turquoise seawater. With knowledgeable guides and a focus on the region’s geological history, this excursion promises an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts and adventurers.

You can check if your dates are available here: