São Miguel: Whale Watching & Wild Dolphins Swimming Full-day

If you’re heading to São Miguel in the Azores and looking for a way to connect with the ocean’s most majestic creatures, this full-day tour offers a compelling mix of adventure, education, and respect for nature. For around $246 per person, you’ll spend the morning on a boat searching for whales and dolphins, guided by marine biologists, and the afternoon swimming alongside wild dolphins in their natural habitat.

What we love about this experience is the chance to see up to 28 species of cetaceans that inhabit these waters throughout the year. The expert guides make all the difference—they’re passionate, knowledgeable, and committed to sustainable viewing. Plus, the opportunity to swim with dolphins responsibly offers a truly memorable, emotionally powerful moment that few other tours can match.

One thing to consider is that this tour is quite full-on and may not suit travelers with mobility issues, pregnant women, or young children under 12. The activity involves fast boats and some physical activity, so be prepared for a lively day. It’s best suited for those who love nature, are comfortable on boats, and want an authentic, respectful encounter with marine life.

If this sounds like your kind of adventure, you’ll find that it offers excellent value—especially given the guidance of marine biologists and the high likelihood of seeing diverse cetaceans. It’s particularly perfect for nature lovers eager to experience the Azores’ incredible marine biodiversity firsthand.

This experience made our article of 8 Of The Best Dolphin Watching Tours In Sao Miguel Island.

Key Points

• Expert-guided experience with marine biologists increases understanding and appreciation of marine life.
• Respectful swimming with dolphins allows for authentic, eco-friendly encounters.
• The tour combines scenic coastal views with wildlife viewing, adding visual beauty to the experience.
• The group sizes—up to 24 on whale watching and 8 for swimming—help ensure a more personal, less crowded experience.
• All equipment (wetsuits, masks, snorkels) and a picnic lunch are included, simplifying your day.
• The tour is not suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, or those with certain health issues, so check your personal comfort level beforehand.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Meeting Logistics

The adventure kicks off at the marina near Ponta Delgada, right next to the Picos de Aventura office. You’ll want to follow the main boulevard until you see the marina and descend the stairs beside the sign. This location offers a relaxed start, with the chance to meet your guides and get your gear sorted before heading out on the water.

The Morning Whale Watching

Once aboard, the excitement builds. The boat is a fast, semi-rigid rubber vessel, designed for both speed and stability, which is key for covering the waters efficiently and safely. The number of participants—up to 24—means you’ll likely see other boats, but the guides seem dedicated to making sure everyone gets a good view.

Guided by marine biologists, the morning’s search for whales and dolphins is both educational and thrilling. The guides’ expertise means they can often identify the species and share fascinating details about their behavior and habits. The Azores are home to 28 cetacean species, so if you’re lucky, you might spot everything from common dolphins to elusive larger whales.

Coastal Scenery and Wildlife

Throughout the trip, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the rugged Azorean coastline—cliffs, volcanic formations, and green islands in the distance. It’s a visual treat that complements the chance encounters with marine life. We loved the way the guides pointed out features of the landscape, making the scenery part of the story.

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Midday Break and Picnic

Back on land, you’ll have time to relax and re-energize with a picnic lunch provided—baguette, fruit, and a beverage. This simple meal offers enough fuel for the afternoon’s activities and allows a moment of downtime before the next adventure.

Afternoon: Swimming with Dolphins

The highlight for many is the opportunity to swim with wild dolphins. After a briefing and a quick lesson on snorkeling equipment, you’ll board a smaller boat that accommodates just eight people. This more intimate setting allows for a closer, more personal experience.

The water is open and the environment natural, so the dolphins might come close out of curiosity. The guides emphasize respecting the animals’ space and natural behavior, making the encounter both safe and responsible. The chance to see these intelligent creatures in their environment, swimming just feet away, is genuinely moving.

Considerations for the Swimming Portion

While exhilarating, this part of the tour involves some physical activity—snorkeling and floating in open water. You’ll need swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a change of clothes. The equipment is provided, but bringing your own (if you prefer) might enhance comfort.

Overall Experience

The tour balances fun, education, and environmental responsibility. The guides’ knowledge adds depth to the experience, turning a simple boat ride into a lesson about marine life and conservation. Many travelers mention how Aida and other guides make the day memorable, sharing their enthusiasm and insights.

Analyzing the Value

At $246, this tour isn’t cheap, but considering the expert guidance, all gear included, and the possibility of seeing multiple whale and dolphin species, it offers good value. The small group size for the swimming portion enhances safety and intimacy, making it more than just a generic boat trip.

The included picnic helps cut down on extra expenses, and the overall organization ensures a smooth, enjoyable day. The fact that you can reserve now and pay later adds flexibility, especially for travelers with uncertain schedules.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for nature enthusiasts and animal lovers who want a genuine, respectful encounter with marine life. It’s perfect for travelers comfortable on boats, eager to learn from marine biologists, and interested in seeing multiple cetacean species.

It’s less suitable for young children under 12, pregnant women, or anyone with specific health concerns involving the back or heart. If you’re after a laid-back boat ride, this might feel too active and engaging—but if you want an authentic, educational adventure, this tour fits the bill.

The Sum Up

This full-day whale watching and dolphin swimming tour in São Miguel offers a meaningful way to experience the Azores’ marine riches. Guided by experts, you’ll enjoy stunning coastal scenery, learn fascinating facts about cetaceans, and, with a bit of luck, have breath-taking moments swimming with wild dolphins. The emphasis on environmental responsibility ensures you’ll leave with not just memories but a deeper appreciation for these gentle giants.

For travelers who love animals, adventure, and nature, this tour provides a well-balanced mix of fun and education, all wrapped in a respectful and eco-conscious package. It’s a worthwhile investment for anyone wanting to see the ocean’s most captivating creatures in their natural environment.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour is not suitable for children under 12, mainly due to the physical activity involved and safety considerations.

What should I bring for the swimming activity?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a change of clothes. The tour provides wetsuits, masks, and snorkels.

Can I book the tour now and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay closer to your travel date, offering flexibility in planning.

What if I have health issues?
The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, or those with back or heart problems. Always check your own comfort level before booking.

How many people are on the whale watching boat?
Up to 24 people share the whale watching experience, providing space for everyone to enjoy the scenery and wildlife.

How many people can swim with dolphins at the same time?
A maximum of 8 participants swim with dolphins each time, ensuring a more personal and safe experience.

What is included in the price?
The price covers guided marine biologists, wetsuits, masks, snorkels, a picnic lunch, and safety equipment like life vests.

You can check availability for your dates here: