The Azores’ best dolphin encounters happen right off Sao Miguel’s coast. These waters teem with Atlantic spotted, bottlenose, and common dolphins year-round. We especially like Picos de Aventura’s swim-with-dolphins program for their safety-first approach and knowledgeable guides.
The southern coast boat trips deliver reliable sightings of multiple species, often including sperm whales and, in season, blue whales.
For maximum value, we recommend the Among Whales Dolphins and Volcanoes tour, which smartly combines marine wildlife viewing with visits to Furnas’ steaming valleys and the lush Terra Nostra gardens. This combo saves both time and money while showcasing the island’s top attractions.
Check out our favorite Sao Miguel dolphin watching tours below.
Good To Know
- The “Swim With Dolphins” tour by Picos de Aventura offers small-group opportunities to swim alongside Atlantic spotted, bottlenose, and common dolphins in the Azores.
- The “Half-Day Whale and Dolphin Watching Tour” in Ponta Delgada allows travelers to spot a variety of cetacean species, including bottlenose dolphins, along the southern Azores coast.
- The “Whale and Dolphin Cruise Plus Furnas and Terra Nostra Trip” combines a marine life cruise with visits to Furnas and Terra Nostra, providing the chance to see dolphins and whales.
- The “Among Whales Dolphins and Volcanoes Full Day Tour With Lunch” offers a comprehensive experience, including coastal whale-watching in search of whales, dolphins, and turtles.
- Many Azores tour operators, such as Picos de Aventura and Terra Azul, offer knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and necessary equipment for optimal dolphin and whale watching experiences in Sao Miguel.
Swim With Dolphins in the Azores
Visitors can often swim alongside the playful pods of Atlantic spotted dolphins, bottlenose dolphins, and common dolphins that thrive in the waters around São Miguel in the Azores. Picos de Aventura – Animação e Lazer offers small group tours that allow up to 8 people to get up close with these magnificent creatures. The tours depart either in the morning or afternoon, providing flexibility for travelers’ schedules.
After a brief orientation on how to interact with the dolphins without disrupting their habitat, guests climb aboard the boat to view the dolphins along the coast. The highlight is the opportunity to swim in the water alongside the pod, an unforgettable experience. However, the tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with back problems, and guests must be able to swim to join.
With over 160 positive reviews and a 95% recommendation rate, this dolphin watching tour is an excellent way to connect with nature and observe these intelligent marine mammals in their natural environment.
Read our full review: Swim With Dolphins in the Azores Review
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Half-Day Whale and Dolphin Watching Tour in Ponta Delgada
This half-day whale and dolphin watching tour in Ponta Delgada allows travelers to search for a variety of cetacean species along the southern coast of the Azores. The tour boasts 570 reviews and a Badge of Excellence, promising an excellent experience.
Participants will travel in an open boat with an experienced captain, giving them the chance to spot bottlenose dolphins, sperm whales, sei whales, bearded whales, and even blue whales. The tour includes live commentary from a professional guide and provides rain coats and life vests, which are mandatory.
After a brief itinerary overview, the boat will depart to explore the coastline and observe over 20 different cetacean species. The meeting point is at Picos de Aventura – Animacao e Lazer in Ponta Delgada, and no hotel pickup is available. This tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions, and a maximum of 65 travelers are allowed.
Read our full review: Half-Day Whale and Dolphin Watching Tour in Ponta Delgada Review
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Whale and Dolphin Cruise Plus Furnas and Terra Nostra Trip – Sao Miguel
Sao Miguel’s Whale and Dolphin Cruise Plus Furnas and Terra Nostra Trip offers a comprehensive exploration of the island’s natural wonders. This full-day tour combines a marine life cruise with visits to the island’s renowned botanical gardens. Travelers can expect to spot dolphins and whales under the guidance of an onboard expert, learning about the local cetacean population.
The tour also includes a geyser-cooked “cozido” lunch and a visit to the Caldeira das Furnas, a stunning volcanic crater. With 50 reviews and a 92% recommendation rate from travelers, this tour has earned a Badge of Excellence from Azores Whale Watching TERRA AZUL. Convenient hotel pickup, knowledgeable guides, and all necessary inclusions make this an efficient and well-rounded experience.
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking a memorable day in Sao Miguel, this tour provides an exceptional opportunity to learn about the island’s captivating landscapes and wildlife.
Read our full review: Whale and Dolphin Cruise Plus Furnas and Terra Nostra Trip – Sao Miguel Review
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Among Whales Dolphins and Volcanoes Full Day Tour With Lunch
For an immersive experience combining whale-watching and volcanic exploration, the “Among Whales Dolphins and Volcanoes Full Day Tour With Lunch” offers a comprehensive journey across Sao Miguel’s captivating natural wonders. This 8-hour tour takes travelers along the coastline in search of whales, dolphins, and turtles before visiting the volcanic Caldeira Velha and Lagoa do Fogo crater lake.
Guests will also stop at a pond fire area to witness geothermal activity. The tour includes a buffet lunch and drinks, with restrooms and air-conditioning provided on the boat and van. Pickup is available from select locations, though additional fees may apply for areas outside the main towns. The tour can accommodate up to 24 travelers and isn’t recommended for pregnant individuals.
Confirmation is subject to availability within 48 hours of booking, and the experience is dependent on favorable weather conditions.
Read our full review: Among Whales Dolphins and Volcanoes Full Day Tour With Lunch Review
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The Sum Up
Sao Miguel offers numerous opportunities to witness dolphins in their natural habitat. From half-day tours to full-day excursions, visitors can choose from a range of dolphin watching experiences. These tours allow travelers to get up close and personal with these magnificent creatures while also exploring the island’s volcanic landscapes. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking an unforgettable adventure, Sao Miguel’s dolphin watching tours are a must-do activity.