Horta, a picturesque town in the Azores, offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the wonders of marine life. The whale and dolphin watching expedition takes adventurers on a 3-hour journey aboard a comfortable RIB boat, providing a chance to observe an array of captivating cetacean species. With knowledgeable guides and a marine researcher on board, participants can gain valuable insights into the diverse ecosystem and the important conservation efforts in the region. Whether it’s the resident dolphins or the majestic seasonal whales, this expedition promises an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Azorean waters.
Key Points
- 3-hour whale and dolphin watching tour departing from Horta, Azores, priced at €95.00 per person.
- Tour collaborates with Whale Spotters to locate and observe various cetacean species, including sperm whales and seasonal species.
- Guided by English, Portuguese, and Spanish-speaking experts, with a marine researcher providing insights on regional marine biodiversity.
- Suitable for participants aged 5 and above, with waterproof clothes and safety insurance provided.
- Tour has an overall rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars, with high customer satisfaction and transparent handling of weather-related cancellations.
Activity Overview
Offering a whale and dolphin watching expedition, this 3-hour tour departs from Horta and is priced from €95.00 per person.
Likely to sell out, the tour allows customers to reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
The RIB boat accommodates 16 participants, with morning tours at 09:00 and afternoon tours at 14:00.
Although the tours may be rescheduled due to weather conditions, a full refund is provided if the tour is canceled.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Faial Island.
Tour Details
The expedition embarks from Naturalist – Science & Tourism, Whale Watching, located in Horta.
Knowledgeable guides fluent in English, Portuguese, and Spanish (French upon request) lead the tours. The group size is limited to 16 participants on a RIB boat.
Morning tours depart at 9 AM, and afternoon tours set sail at 2 PM. Tours may be rescheduled due to weather conditions, with a full refund provided if canceled.
The expedition collaborates with Whale Spotters to locate whales and dolphins, and a marine researcher/biologist from the University of Lisbon and Azores joins the tour to provide insights on the region’s marine biodiversity and cetaceans.
Marine Life and Research
Through a collaboration with Whale Spotters, the expedition locates whales and dolphins in the region.
During the tour, a marine researcher/biologist from the University of Lisbon and Azores provides a briefing on the marine biodiversity and cetaceans found in the area.
Over 25 cetacean species inhabit the waters, and participants can typically observe 2-3 species per tour. These include Sperm whales, which can be seen year-round, as well as seasonal species like Blue, Fin, Bryde, and Sei whales.
The expedition also encounters various resident dolphin species, offering guests the opportunity to witness these captivating marine mammals in their natural habitat.
Safety and Restrictions
While the expedition provides an up-close encounter with diverse marine life, there are some important safety considerations and restrictions guests should be aware of.
The tour isn’t suitable for children under 5, pregnant women, individuals with back problems, or those who’ve undergone recent surgeries. Participants must arrive 15 minutes before departure, and waterproof clothes are required.
The small RIB boat accommodates 16 people, so early booking is recommended. Safety insurance is included, but food and drinks aren’t provided. Gratuities are also not included.
Guests should follow the instructions of the experienced crew and marine biologist to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyCustomer Reviews and Ratings
Travelers have rated the Whale and Dolphin Watching Expedition in Horta exceptionally well, awarding it an overall score of 4.9 out of 5 stars based on 105 reviews.
The transportation received a 4.9 rating, while the value for money was scored 4.7.
Positive feedback highlights the knowledgeable guides, memorable encounters with dolphins and turtles, and the expedition’s efficient organization.
Although some cancellations due to weather conditions occurred, the company handled them transparently and provided prompt refunds, further contributing to the tour’s positive customer reviews.
Collaboration With Whale Spotters
As part of the Whale and Dolphin Watching Expedition, the tour operators collaborate closely with the Whale Spotters organization.
This partnership allows them to leverage the expertise and extensive knowledge of the Whale Spotters, who monitor the region’s whale and dolphin populations year-round.
The Whale Spotters use a network of land-based observers and sophisticated tracking technology to identify the whereabouts of different cetacean species.
This information is then shared with the tour operators, enabling them to efficiently locate and observe these magnificent marine mammals during the tours.
This fruitful collaboration enhances the overall experience for the participants, who are more likely to witness diverse species of whales and dolphins during their excursion.
Briefing on Marine Biodiversity
During the Whale and Dolphin Watching Expedition, the knowledgeable marine researcher or biologist from the University of Lisbon and Azores provides a comprehensive briefing on the marine biodiversity of the region.
Participants learn about the diverse array of cetacean species that can be found in the local waters, including Sperm whales, Blue and Fin whales, Bryde and Sei whales, and various resident dolphin species.
The briefing also covers the overall marine ecosystem, highlighting the importance of conservation efforts to protect these magnificent creatures and their fragile habitats.
This informative session helps guests better appreciate the wonders of the local marine life and the significance of the Whale and Dolphin Watching Expedition.
Waterproof Clothes and Insurance
Participants receive waterproof clothes to ensure their comfort and safety during the Whale and Dolphin Watching Expedition. These clothes protect them from the elements and help maintain their body temperature during the sea excursion. In addition, the tour includes comprehensive safety insurance, providing peace of mind for all participants.
| Safety Features | Coverage |
|---|---|
| Waterproof Clothing | Keeps participants dry and warm |
| Safety Insurance | Protects against potential accidents or injuries |
| Life Jackets | Provided for all participants |
| Experienced Guides | Ensure safe navigation and responsible wildlife viewing |
This holistic approach to safety ensures an enjoyable and memorable experience for all who embark on the Whale and Dolphin Watching Expedition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
The tour doesn’t provide food or drinks, but participants are allowed to bring their own. However, the availability of storage space on the boat may be limited.
Is There a Minimum Number of Participants Required?
The tour does not have a minimum number of participants required. The RIB boat accommodates up to 16 people, so the expedition can run with as few as a single participant.
Do I Need to Book in Advance or Can I Buy Tickets on the Day?
You can book your tickets in advance, as the tours are likely to sell out. However, you can also purchase tickets on the day, subject to availability. It’s recommended to book in advance to secure your spot.
Is There a Discount for Students or Seniors?
The activity overview doesn’t mention any discounts for students or seniors. Visitors can expect to pay the standard price of €95 per person, regardless of age or student status, unless otherwise specified by the tour operator.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?
The tour has age restrictions – it’s not suitable for children under 5 years old. Pregnant women, individuals with back problems, or those who’ve had recent surgeries are also not permitted to participate.
Recap
A whale and dolphin watching expedition in Horta offers a unique opportunity to observe diverse marine life and learn about Azorean biodiversity. With experienced guides, a marine researcher, and a comfortable RIB boat, participants can enjoy a safe and informative adventure while catching glimpses of resident dolphins and seasonal whales. At €95 per person, this 3-hour tour provides an unforgettable experience in the stunning Azorean waters.
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