See: Azorean Whale Watching
A magical wildlife spectacle that made the journey worthwhile.
Angra do Heroísmo, Terceira
The top attraction for most visitors in the Azores is to cruise the pristine, sapphire Atlantic waters for whales. So whale and dolphin watching is what we did...with what we found as one of the most respectable tour operators in the Azores. This group, whom is very communicative prior to your experience on the water, offers Marine Biologists who come onboard the zodiac boats as your escort and narrator.
We zipped out on the water to the iconic Ilhas das Cabras, and within minutes past sunrise, we were surrounded by a pod of 1000 Common Dolphins, jumping and splashing, zipping around under our boat and then off into the distant waves. It was absolutely magical.
From there, the boat headed nearly 10 miles directly out into the water so we could be in deep enough waters to chance upon passing whales. Unfortunately, even using sonic detection devices under water, we didn't find any whales nearby that day, but being on the chopping waters was a bit too long for my taste. Still, I'd do it over again to see that magnificent dolphin show. It was like seeing a double rainbow in the sky.
Tours last 3 hours, and start around 8am from the central port in Angra do Heroísmo, 60 euros cash.
Warning: my spouse used FOUR vomit bags on our 3-hour-tour. Being on the choppy seas is not for everyone, so proceed cautiously.
Photo Source: Syllogi
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