Terceira is a prime spot for boat tours in the Azores. Its waters teem with marine life, including 28 whale and dolphin species, making it one of the world’s best places for whale watching. But there’s more to explore: from snorkeling in caves to scenic island trips, Terceira’s maritime options offer something for every type of traveler. We particularly liked the Whale and Dolphin Watching boat excursion for its chance to see the ocean’s giants in their natural environment, along with the Ilheus das Cabras boat trip, which combines beauty and wildlife in a compact tour. Whether you’re after wildlife, scenic views, or relaxing sunset sails, Terceira’s boat tours deliver real value and memorable moments.
Quick Overview
On this list, you’ll find six top boat tours and cruises in Terceira, each offering a different angle on the island’s marine environment:
- Whale and dolphin watching excursions
- Scenic boat trips around Ilheus das Cabras
- Snorkeling and cave exploration
- Short boat trips to Ilhéu das Cabras
- Snorkeling adventures from Angra do Heroísmo
- Sunset cruises with local drinks
Each tour is evaluated based on its content, reviews, and uniqueness to help you pick the best fit for your interests and schedule. Now, let’s dive into the details.
1. Terceira Island : Whale and Dolphin Watching boat excursion
This whale and dolphin watching tour is a standout activity, especially given that the Azores have 28 cetacean species, about a third of the world’s whales and dolphins. The tour lasts around 2.5 hours and offers the chance to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. The boat, operated by Ocean Emotion, is praised for safety and organization, making it a reliable choice.
What makes this trip special is the chance to see multiple whale species, including sperm whales, and dolphins in large numbers. Marine guides share insights along the way, turning what could be a simple boat ride into a fascinating educational experience. The tour has a 4.7-star rating based on 24 reviews, with many visitors noting how close they got to whales and dolphins, and how impressed they were with the persistence of the crew in spotting whales. Costing about $74 per person, it offers excellent value given the high probability of spotting marine life and the quality of the guides.
Bottom line: If you’re eager to see whales or dolphins and want a trusted, well-organized tour, this excursion is hard to beat. Book early as boat trips can fill up fast, especially in peak season.
2. Terceira Island: Ilheus das Cabras – Boat Trip
For a scenic cruise that combines marine wildlife with breathtaking volcanic landscapes, the Ilheus das Cabras boat trip is a top choice. Lasting 1.5 hours, this tour departs from Marina de Angra do Heroísmo and covers the largest islets of the Azores. The tour is designed to give you insights into local marine life and regional history while enjoying the natural beauty.
What sets this tour apart is the combination of speedboat travel—the fastest in Terceira—and a stop at Ilhéus das Cabras, where you can observe wildlife and the volcanic landscape. The guides are local instructors who show you the best spots, making this tour both educational and visually stunning. Many reviews highlight the excitement of snorkeling and the variety of fish and sea creatures seen in the waters, with a reviewer noting, “very nice skipper and knowledgeable snorkeling guide.”
This tour offers great value at a competitive price, especially considering the short duration but rich experience. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a quick yet immersive marine outing.
Bottom line: This is a lively, fast-paced trip perfect for those who want a taste of both marine life and volcanic scenery in a half-day adventure.
3. Third Island: Ilhéu das Cabras Boat Tour + Snorkeling
This boat tour combined with snorkeling at Ilhéu das Cabras is a favorite among travelers who want more than just a boat ride. With a 5-star rating, it emphasizes customized experiences suited to different skill levels, whether you’re an experienced diver or a first-time snorkeler.
The tour lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes and is praised for the stunning underwater environment. Participants are taken to caves and rocky formations where they can see starfish, sea urchins, and even eat a fresh limpet. The crew is dedicated to safety and making sure everyone feels comfortable exploring underwater. One reviewer described the experience as “very exciting,” especially noting the informative guide and the opportunity to see goat island close up.
Pricing at around $52.04 per person makes this an excellent value for a personalized snorkeling adventure. It’s perfect for travelers who want to explore marine life up close and enjoy the scenic beauty of Ilhéu das Cabras.
Bottom line: If snorkeling in caves and seeing underwater creatures is your priority, this tour offers a memorable, tailored experience.
4. Third Island: Ileus of the Goats – Boat Trip
Offering a relaxed and scenic boat ride, the Ileus of the Goats boat trip is a quick, roughly 1-hour excursion. Starting from Terceira’s coast, it provides panoramic views of the coastline and the Ilhéu das Cabras, with a focus on birdwatching and natural scenery.
The tour’s simplicity and comfort make it appealing to travelers looking for a laid-back experience. The boat is comfortable, and during the trip, you get the chance to see seabirds and possibly crabs on the islets. Reviews mention the expert guidance of James, who makes sure everyone enjoys the ride and points out scenic spots. It’s an excellent, affordable option at around $40.49 per person.
This tour is best suited for those wanting a short, relaxing cruise rather than an active wildlife search. It’s ideal if you’re pressed for time but still want to experience the coast from the water.
Bottom line: A straightforward scenic cruise perfect for a quick, relaxing introduction to Terceira’s coastal views and biodiversity.
5. Angra do Heroísmo: Snorkeling Tour by boat
For those interested in underwater exploration, the Snorkeling Tour from Angra do Heroísmo is an excellent choice. Lasting about 1.5 hours, this tour takes you along the coast where you can see marine life up close and capture stunning photos of the crystal-clear waters.
The tour highlights include the possibility of diving with rays at certain times of the year and learning about Azorean marine species from knowledgeable guides. Many reviewers appreciate the biodiversity and the vibrant underwater scenes. It’s suited for snorkelers of varying experience levels, making it accessible for families and first-timers alike.
At $45 per person, this tour offers good value for the chance to experience the Azores’ underwater biodiversity firsthand. The focus on marine life makes it ideal for nature lovers or anyone wanting a hands-on marine adventure.
Bottom line: If snorkeling appeals to you and you’re keen to learn about marine species, this tour provides a hands-on, immersive experience.
6. Angra do Heroísmo: Sunset Cruise with Local Drinks
A sunset cruise combines relaxation with spectacular views. For about $40 per person, you’ll sail along Terceira’s southern coast as the sun dips into the Atlantic. The cruise lasts about 1 hour and offers a chance to sip local liqueurs, listen to music, and enjoy the peaceful beauty of the island at dusk.
Reviewers mention loving the dolphins they saw and the stunning hues of the sunset. The relaxed atmosphere makes this a good choice for couples or travelers seeking a romantic, low-key experience. The boat’s environment encourages enjoying the scenery without rushing, making it ideal for those who want a calm, scenic break.
While it’s the lowest-rated tour on this list (3.7 stars), many find it a lovely and affordable way to end a day in Terceira, especially if you’re looking for something casual.
Bottom line: Perfect for a relaxing evening, this cruise offers beautiful sunset views and local drinks—a gentle way to unwind.
$40 per person
How to Choose the Best Boat Tour in Terceira
Selecting the right boat tour depends on your interests, budget, and time availability. If marine wildlife is your top priority, the Whale and Dolphin Watching excursion offers a high chance of sightings and a well-organized experience. For a short, scenic trip, the Ileus of the Goats boat trip is ideal. If underwater exploration excites you, the Snorkeling Tour provides a personalized, engaging experience.
Consider the duration and type of scenery you want—whether it’s wildlife, volcanic landscapes, or a sunset view. Booking early is especially wise in peak season, and check availability for times that fit your schedule. For a broader experience, combining a wildlife tour with a sunset sail might give you both adventure and relaxation.
Final Thoughts
Terceira’s boat tours offer a rich variety of ways to see the island’s marine environment and coastline. The Whale and Dolphin Watching excursion and the Ilheus das Cabras boat trip stand out for their combination of wildlife and scenic beauty, making them top picks. For a more personal underwater experience, the snorkeling tour is perfect. And if you’re after a relaxing end to your day, the sunset cruise provides stunning views with a laid-back vibe.
No matter your preferences, booking early will help ensure you secure the best spot. These tours promise memorable moments that highlight the unique maritime character of Terceira—so don’t hesitate to pick the one that excites you most and enjoy your time on the water.