Terceira Island in the Azores archipelago offers a unique opportunity for marine enthusiasts to swim alongside dolphins in their natural habitat. This captivating 2.5-hour excursion allows small groups to encounter various dolphin species, guided by knowledgeable multilingual professionals. While swimming with whales is prohibited, guests can still marvel at these majestic creatures from a safe distance. With a focus on responsible wildlife interaction and participant safety, this unforgettable experience promises to leave a lasting impression. But what exactly can visitors expect during this once-in-a-lifetime adventure?

Key Points

Swimming With Dolphins in Terceira Island - Key Points

  • A 2.5-hour dolphin and whale watching activity is offered in the Azores archipelago, including the island of Terceira.
  • The activity allows for encounters with various dolphin and whale species, with a focus on responsible wildlife interaction.
  • The small group size of up to 8 participants provides a personalized and intimate experience led by a multilingual guide.
  • Necessary equipment and safety instructions are provided, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.
  • Swimming with whales is prohibited, and dolphin sightings are not guaranteed due to the unpredictability of wildlife.
You can check if your dates are available here:

Activity Overview

Swimming With Dolphins in Terceira Island - Activity Overview

Swimming with Dolphins in Terceira Island is a popular activity among visitors to the Azores archipelago. The 2.5-hour experience costs from $106.33 per person and includes the chance to encounter dolphin and whale species.

Groups are limited to 8 participants, ensuring a more intimate encounter. A live tour guide fluent in English, Portuguese, and Spanish provides equipment and safety instructions.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, and guests can reserve their spot without upfront payment. However, sightings aren’t guaranteed due to the unpredictable nature of wildlife, and alternative options are offered if no dolphins or whales are observed.

Experience Highlights

Swimming With Dolphins in Terceira Island - Experience Highlights

The experience highlights a chance to encounter dolphin and whale species in the Azores.

The small group size is limited to 8 participants, ensuring a more intimate and personalized interaction.

The live tour guide is fluent in English, Portuguese, and Spanish, providing valuable insights and information throughout the activity.

Participants will be provided with the necessary equipment and safety instructions to ensure a responsible and safe wildlife interaction.

The focus is on the wellbeing of both your and the marine life, prioritizing their protection and enjoyment of the experience.

Wildlife Interaction Policy

Swimming With Dolphins in Terceira Island - Wildlife Interaction Policy

According to the policy, swimming with whales is strictly prohibited, except when conducted under special government authorization.

While swimming with dolphins is the aim of this activity, sightings can’t be guaranteed due to the unpredictable nature of wildlife.

If no dolphins or whales are spotted, participants have the option to rebook or receive a full refund.

Even if at least one species is observed but swimming isn’t possible, a complimentary tour may be provided as compensation.

The focus is on responsible wildlife interaction, prioritizing the safety of both guests and marine life.

Participant Requirements

Swimming With Dolphins in Terceira Island - Participant Requirements

This activity isn’t suitable for certain individuals, including children under 8, pregnant women, and those with back or heart problems.

Participants should come prepared with swimwear, towel, and water. Smoking, glass objects, and alcoholic drinks aren’t allowed in the vehicle.

The meeting point for this tour is the OceanEmotion office, identified by its red cover. The small group size is limited to 8 participants, ensuring a personalized and responsible wildlife interaction experience.

Safety instructions and necessary equipment will be provided by the live tour guide, who’s fluent in English, Portuguese, and Spanish.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

What to Bring

Swimming With Dolphins in Terceira Island - What to Bring

Participants should bring a swimsuit, towel, and water for their swimming with dolphins experience on Terceira Island.

The tour operator emphasizes that only these essential items are allowed, as glass objects and alcoholic drinks are prohibited on the vehicle.

Visitors are advised to dress comfortably and in suitable attire for swimming. Towels can be used to dry off after the encounter with the marine life.

Staying hydrated is also crucial, so bringing water is recommended.

Meeting Point

The meeting point for the swimming with dolphins tour on Terceira Island is the OceanEmotion office, marked by a distinctive red cover.

Participants are required to gather at this location to begin the 2.5-hour adventure.

Once assembled, the tour guide, fluent in English, Portuguese, and Spanish, will provide the necessary safety instructions and equipment before setting out to encounter the marine wildlife.

It’s important for participants to arrive on time, as the tour departs promptly.

Visitors should avoid bringing prohibited items such as glass objects and alcoholic drinks to the meeting point, as these aren’t allowed during the tour.

Customer Reviews

Swimming With Dolphins in Terceira Island - Customer Reviews

Travelers’ enthusiastic reviews paint a vivid picture of the memorable swimming with dolphins experience on Terceira Island.

With an overall rating of 4.9 out of 5 from 18 reviews, it’s clear that participants thoroughly enjoyed the activity. Reviewers highlighted the friendly dolphins, knowledgeable guides, and the overall unforgettable nature of the experience.

Customers appreciated the safety measures and clear guidelines in place, which instilled confidence during the tour.

While sightings can’t be guaranteed due to the unpredictable nature of wildlife, the tour operator offers alternatives, such as rescheduling or a full refund, if no dolphins or whales are spotted.

Booking Details

Although the swimming with dolphins experience in Terceira Island is likely to sell out, customers can reserve their spot with no upfront payment by booking now and paying later. This offers flexibility to secure a spot without an immediate financial commitment. The activity runs for 2.5 hours and costs from $106.33 per person. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The experience highlights include encountering dolphins and whales in a small group setting with a multilingual guide and provided equipment.

Booking Details
Duration 2.5 hours
Price From $106.33 per person
Cancellation Free up to 24h for full refund
Payment Book now, pay later
Group Size Small (max 8)

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to See Dolphins?

The best time to see dolphins is typically during the warmer summer months when they are more active near the surface. However, sightings can vary depending on seasonal migration patterns and weather conditions.

Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Equipment?

Participants can’t bring their own snorkeling equipment. The tour provides all necessary equipment and safety instructions. Using the provided gear ensures proper fit and functionality for the responsible wildlife interaction.

Are Photos and Videos Allowed During the Activity?

Photos and videos are allowed during the activity. However, the use of flash photography is prohibited, and guests should avoid disturbing the dolphins or whales. Participants are encouraged to enjoy the experience without excessive photo-taking.

Is There a Minimum Number of Participants Required?

There is no minimum number of participants required for the activity. The group size is limited to a maximum of 8 participants, allowing for a small and intimate experience.

Can I Request a Private Tour?

While the standard tour has a small group size limit of 8 participants, private tours can be requested. Guests interested in a private experience should inquire with the tour operator for availability and pricing.

Recap

Swimming with dolphins in Terceira Island provides an unforgettable opportunity to encounter these captivating creatures in their natural habitat. Guided by knowledgeable experts, participants can observe the dolphins up close while adhering to responsible wildlife interaction policies. With the necessary equipment and instructions provided, guests can enjoy a memorable and safe experience, making it a must-visit destination for marine life enthusiasts.

You can check if your dates are available here: