Private Marine Wildlife Boat Tour

Exploring the remarkable marine life of the Azores is a captivating experience that shouldn’t be missed. A private boat tour offers an intimate encounter with whales, dolphins, and seabirds in their natural habitat. Led by knowledgeable guides, this personalized excursion allows visitors to enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the archipelago’s waters. With wetsuits and snorkeling gear provided, participants can fully engage with the diverse marine ecosystems, creating unforgettable memories. As the boat departs from the Azores Whale Watching TERRA AZUL marina, the stage is set for an adventure that promises to enchant nature enthusiasts from all walks of life.

Key Points

• Personalized private boat tour to witness diverse marine life in the Azores, Portugal, with a maximum of 12 participants.
• Includes equipment such as wetsuits, snorkeling gear, and an experienced guide to provide insights on the wildlife.
• Tour departs from the Azores Whale Watching TERRA AZUL marina, with free parking available and pickup options for an additional charge.
• Not recommended for individuals with certain medical conditions or children under 4 years old, and adherence to safety instructions is emphasized.
• Flexible booking and cancellation policy, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.

Tour Overview

This private marine wildlife boat tour in Sao Miguel, Portugal offers visitors an intimate and immersive experience to explore the region’s diverse aquatic life.

With a maximum of 12 participants, the tour provides a personalized and exclusive outing aboard a Zodiac RIB boat. The tour has received excellent reviews, with a 5.0 overall rating from Viator and Tripadvisor.

Priced at €595 per group, the tour includes the services of a knowledgeable wildlife guide and experienced skipper, as well as all necessary equipment such as wetsuits, snorkeling gear, and safety gear.

Guests can explore the marine environment at their own pace, guided by the expert team. While sightings of specific species can’t be guaranteed, the tour offers a unique opportunity to witness the natural wonder of the Azores.

Inclusions

The private marine wildlife boat tour includes a range of equipment and services to ensure a comfortable and immersive experience for participants. Wetsuits (2 mm short-sleeved) are provided to keep swimmers warm, while snorkeling masks and tubes are available for up to 8 swimmers.

A knowledgeable wildlife guide and experienced skipper accompany the group, operating a zodiac RIB boat with a capacity of up to 12 participants. An impermeable top and life vest are also included, along with insurance and personal water supply.

Participants are required to bring their own personal swimwear. These inclusions aim to enhance the overall enjoyment and safety of the tour.

Meeting and Pickup Information

From Ponta Delgada city center, travelers head East along the coast to Vila Franca do Campo, then descend to the marina where the meeting point Azores Whale Watching TERRA AZUL is located.

Free parking is available at this convenient starting point. Pickup options are also offered, though charges apply and are subject to availability.

Travelers will receive confirmation of their booking within 48 hours, pending availability.

The tour operator emphasizes that participants must follow the skipper and guide’s instructions at all times for a safe and enjoyable experience.

With clear directions and flexible pickup options, getting to the marina is a breeze for this exciting marine wildlife adventure.

Participation Guidelines

Participants must receive confirmation of their booking within 48 hours of the experience, subject to availability.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though service animals are allowed. It’s not recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnant individuals, or those with heart conditions or other serious medical concerns.

Certain guidelines must be followed:

1. Children under the age of 4 aren’t permitted on the tour.

2. Participants must adhere to the skipper and guide’s instructions at all times for their safety.

3. While English is the official language, the team may accommodate other languages, but this isn’t guaranteed.

Wildlife Viewing Information

No guarantee exists of seeing specific species, as animal behavior in the wild remains unpredictable. While English serves as the official language, the team may accommodate other languages, though this is not assured. The tour focuses on marine wildlife viewing, which can be an exciting but unpredictable experience. Guests may encounter a variety of creatures, such as whales, dolphins, seabirds, and more. The following table outlines some of the potential wildlife sightings:

Potential Wildlife Sightings
Whales	Dolphins	Seabirds	Fish	Seals
Sperm Whale	Bottlenose Dolphin	Cory’s Shearwater	Tuna	Harbor Seal
Fin Whale	Common Dolphin	Gulls	Mackerel	Grey Seal
Pilot Whale	Striped Dolphin	Terns	Barracuda	Monk Seal

Departure Time and Duration

The tour typically departs at 9:00 AM and lasts approximately 3 hours, allowing ample time to observe the diverse marine life in the area.

Participants can expect:

1. A departure from the Azores Whale Watching TERRA AZUL marina, located just a short drive from the Ponta Delgada city center.

2. A journey aboard a Zodiac RIB boat, equipped with wetsuits, snorkeling gear, and life vests to ensure a comfortable and safe experience.

3. An expert wildlife guide and experienced skipper who’ll navigate the waters and provide insights into the various species that may be encountered, from whales and dolphins to seabirds and other marine creatures.

What to Bring and Wear

Packing the right gear is essential for a comfortable and enjoyable marine wildlife tour.

Participants should bring their personal swimwear, as well as towels, sunscreen, and any necessary medications or snacks. Weather-appropriate clothing, such as light, quick-drying layers, is also recommended, as the tour may encounter varying temperatures and conditions.

The tour provides wetsuits, snorkeling masks and tubes, and other essential equipment, including an impermeable top and life vest. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are advised, as the boat may dock on rocky terrain.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Booking the Private Marine Wildlife Tour is straightforward, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience begins. Guests receive confirmation of their reservation within 48 hours, subject to availability.

The booking process is as follows:

1. Customers can book the tour directly through the tour provider’s website or by contacting them.

2. Payment is required at the time of booking, and the tour can accommodate up to 12 participants.

3. If a customer needs to cancel, they can do so free of charge up until 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

This flexible cancellation policy allows guests to book with confidence, knowing they can adjust their plans if necessary.

The tour provider give you a seamless booking experience for all participants.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Photos and Videos Allowed During the Tour?

Photos and videos are generally allowed during wildlife tours, as long as they do not disturb the animals or interfere with the experience. Participants should check with the tour operator for any specific guidelines or restrictions.

Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Equipment?

Yes, participants can bring their own snorkeling equipment. However, the tour provides wetsuits, masks, and tubes for up to 8 swimmers if needed. Participants must follow the skipper and guide’s directions at all times during the tour.

Are There Any Restrictions on Group Size?

The tour has a group size limit of up to 12 participants. The size is restricted to ensure a personalized experience and to adhere to safety guidelines. Larger groups may be accommodated upon request, subject to availability.

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for Participation?

The minimum age requirement for participation is 4 years old. Children under 4 are not permitted on the tour. Participants must follow the skipper and guide’s directions at all times.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Unfortunately, the tour information does not indicate an option to extend the duration of the experience. The provided details suggest the tour has a fixed length that cannot be expanded.

Recap

The Private Marine Wildlife Boat Tour in Sao Miguel, Portugal, offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the Azores’ breathtaking marine life.

Guided by knowledgeable experts, participants can observe whales, dolphins, and seabirds in their natural habitats.

With comprehensive inclusions and flexible policies, this tour provides a truly immersive and unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts.