Whale watching in the Azores is truly an extraordinary adventure, standing out as one of the world’s most beautiful and unique destinations for whale watching, offering visitors the chance to witness a wide array of whale species in their natural habitat, from majestic blue whales to playful dolphins and lots of Sperm Whales.
Choosing when is the best time to visit the Azores Islands for Whale Watching is difficult just by looking after good weather. It would be to oversimplify stating that the best time for whale watching in Azores islands is between months of March and June (the Spring months), with April and May being on the higher numbers. Ofc, this period is widely considered the best season for whale watching, as springtime brings increased conditions to be out at sea for sightings. However and always, not all is in numbers and in the end it much depends on your personal interests and experiences you look for in the Archipelago, and ofc also the species observable while visiting.
When planning your trip, you can avoid peak crowds or rough seas by choosing less busy times or checking sea conditions for a better experience.
Here are insider tips on the main factors that will help you find the best time to go Whale Watching in Azores islands on your visit to Portugal, including planning to avoid peak crowds or rough seas:
Location and The Weather, and ofc, Species Seasonality Monthly Calendar. We’ve also included possibly helpful Travel Information.
The Best Time to Visit Azores Islands
One of the best Whale Watching and Swim with Dolphins locations in Europe, in beautiful Adventure playground in a very top sustainable islands archipelago holidays destination.
2 to 4 hours away from most European airports and the US lies the westernmost point of Portugal and Europe. An archipelago of 9 islands located right in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, each island with its very unique natural and cultural features. A paradisiac and exotic scenario of the great Blue, with luscious velvet green craters of extinct island volcanoes that now form sculpted fairy-tale worthy lakes, waterfalls, naturally heated spring water pools, beautiful volcanic dark sand beaches, and a great variety of Nature’s monuments and Wildlife. Fun fact: Some believe these islands to be what remains of the ancient civilization Atlantis!
The Azores archipelago is well known as one of the world’s largest whale sanctuaries, but there’s more. The unique geographical position and rich waters of the Gulf Stream represent a vital migratory pathway and feeding ground for a remarkable diversity of cetaceans. The Azores stand out as one of the fastest-growing whale-watching destinations in the world. Year-round sightings of resident species are a testament to the Azorean waters’ bounty, certain months truly stand out maximizing chances of witnessing specific, often Giant whale species, while enjoying optimal weather conditions on your holidays.
The Azores Islands archipelago strategic location
The Azores are renowned for attracting a large variety of whale species, thanks to the strategic position nestled in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, the Azores benefit from a remarkable location—close to the equator yet influenced by the cold, nutrient-rich waters of the North Atlantic.
Nestled in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, the Azores benefit from a remarkable location—close to the equator yet influenced by the cold, nutrient-rich waters of the North Atlantic. This rare combination creates an ideal area for whales, including magnificent fin whales and the iconic blue whale, to pass through on their migratory journeys. With so many species to spot, every whale watching activity in the Azores promises to be enjoyable and memorable, making it a must-do for visitors of all ages seeking a unique and beautiful experience.
The luscious velvet green craters of extinct island volcanoes complete a stunning backdrop for your whale watching adventure trip. Whether you’re a seasoned wildlife enthusiast or a first-time visitor, whale watching in the Azores is an experience that will leave you with lasting memories and a deep appreciation for the wonders of the natural world.
One of the Best Places to watch Whales around the World
Places and Things to do
The Azores islands experience is known for the tranquility, and genuine laidback quality of life of its people, with a twist of Adventure, a widespread variety of Food & Wine festivals, and summer Music festivals.
There are World-class Adventure activities for everyone, at sea and inland from Nature Photography to Golf, Canyoning, Kayaking, Hiking, Mountain Biking, uncrowded Surfing, Rock Climbing, Sailing, Paragliding, Diving, Bird Watching and of course Whale Watching, and Swimming with Dolphins!
Main Natural Attractions not to be missed are the craters of Sete Cidades (Seven Cities), Furnas , Lagoa do Fogo (Lake of Fire), the Islet of Vila Franca do Campo, in the main island of São Miguel – rated 4 of the most incredible natural wonders in the World. Don’t forget to visit the surrounding volcanic beaches and natural spring heated water pools!Excellent local products are Cheese, Wines, Brandies, Fruit, and food in general (whether you prefer Beef, grilled Seafood or Vegetarian), homemade linens, woolen goods, lace, pottery and general craftsmanship.
The Weather and Climate, on Whales
The Azores climate is moderate sub-tropical, with mild average temperatures year-round ranging from 15ºC/60ºF in the Winter, to 26ºC/80ºF in the high Summer. You’ll be glad to know that there are no dangerous animals or night dominating mosquitoes. |
Now that you have all the information you need to plan for your perfect whale watching vacation holidays:
How to get there
You can get to the Azores islands using most holiday travel agents, or with your own travel arrangements. You can book your flight online from the US and Canada with Azores Airlines or Delta, and from UK & Europe with Azores Airlines or Ryanair to São Paulo II Airport in the capital city Ponta Delgada, main island São Miguel. Flights and rates vary throughout the year, so be sure to book ahead!
Where to Stay
Sunny Vila Franca do Campo is 15 minutes away from the airport in Ponta Delgada, and is known for it’s coastal living, excellent restaurants, beautiful terrace views, and for having most of the best leisure beaches in the Azores Islands. Accommodation in the area goes from rental Houses and Villas, to Marina Apart-hotels and Beach Hotels, away from the city buzz and 15 to 30 minutes away from the best attractions and activities the island of São Miguel has to offer. Please contact us if you need any advice.
Is Whale Watching in Azores Islands Ethical?
Whale watching is and extremely important issue in the Azores as protected world heritage area, and there are restrictive safety measures in place to protect whale conservation from whale watching activity.
A code of conduct was developed to further protect the whales in the Azores, which prohibits chasing, disturbing or feeding cetaceans during whale watching trips.These guidelines ensure that whale watching boats maintain a respectful distance, avoid disturbing the animals, and operate in small groups to minimize impact.Whale Watching Tours approaching Cetaceans from behind while keeping constant speed reducing disturbance and avoidance.
Whale Watching Boats stay 50 metres away, or 100 metres if there are babies present.
Whale Watching trips are restricted and limited to government-licensed operators. Reputable companies adhere to strict guidelines and agreements designed to prioritize the welfare of whales and dolphins.
Visitors not only benefit from expert-led activities and the chance to see extraordinary animals, but also contribute to the ongoing protection of the Azores’ marine life. Truly Responsible Eco Tours ensure that the beauty and peace of the area are preserved for future generations and that every adventure experience out to sea is both enjoyable and sustainable.
Human interference with whales and dolphins in their natural habitat is even further minimized on TERRA AZUL’s certified responsible tours and sustainable operations, for an even lower footprint. Ask Why.
The Best Time to visit Azores Islands for Whale Watching?
Anytime – it is possible to see up to 28 different cetacean species within the year – a third of all known species, 4 of which are resident (including Sperm Whales), with a spotting success rate of 98% and average 3 species encountered per tour, TERRA AZUL’s Whale watching excursions are guaranteed all year.
How about Bird Watching?
Anytime – many Birds find oasis in the Azores Islands to breed and raise chicks, or as on-route refuge. Up to 400 species can be observed within the year. Marine birds can be observed yearlong, peaking in Spring with the arrival of migratory species, and in Autumn with rare american vagrant shorebirds.
How about Dolphin Swimming?
From October to April it’s Dolphin Swimming Season in Azores Islands. With water temperatures averaging between 16ºc to 20ºc and away from Calving season – it is the most vulnerable and energy-consuming time for dolphin Calves during the initial development of survival skills, and for their vigilant stressful lactating mothers!
If you prefer a more tranquil experience or want to increase your chances of seeing specific species, consider planning your travelling to avoid the peak summer months on your trip.
It is important to understand that, although we can count on scientific grade research data collected on occurrences in the Azores Islands, and our fast Zodiac boats and lookouts can guarantee sightings almost every time, the likelihood of spotting animals depends on environmental variables affecting the distribution of species. Sea surface temperature, primary productivity, sea currents and thermal fronts are dynamic variables that influence spatial and temporal distribution, resulting in differences in frequency of sightings between years and seasons. Changes in seasonal Weather, Sea conditions and visibility conditions can also affect the probability to detect and find wildlife.
You never know exactly what you can find in the vast Atlantic Ocean, but remember, we are committed to your satisfaction and offer guarantees to ensure you have a positive experience when sightings are not as expected.
Best time of the year for Whale Watching in the Azores?
What Month is The Best Time?
Main Season
In autumn, the vibrant changing colors of the trees create a picturesque scene, adding to the scenic beauty of the islands, enhancing the landscape during and overall of whale watching experiences on your trip. While winters can feel cold compared to summer, outdoor whale watching and nature activities are excitingly adventurous during this season, with weather and sea conditions allowing boats out to sea.
Resident Species (Yearlong)
Sperm whales are present in the Azores all year long., Common Dolphins, Common Bottlenose Dolphins, Risso’s Dolphins.
Occasionally: Orcas in February and March, and the hard to spot deep diving Beaked Whales – Blainville’s Beaked Whales, Gervais Beaked Whales, Sowerby’s Beaked Whales, True’s Beaked Whales and Cuvier’s Beaked Whales.
Peak Season
Springtime climate, weather and temperatures significantly influence species’ migrations, as well as the abundance of food – Krill, Squid, … around the Azores archipelago, This ultimately determines a higher chance in numbers and overall probability of having a memorable experience observing Whales and Dolphins.
It is when the area becomes a bustling highway for migrating happy giants often traveling in large groups with their young, also bringing the excitement of acrobatic displays and the occasional appearance of rare species.
[Mar-Jun] Spring – Giants
Baleen Whales – Blue whales are the largest animals and can be seen usually in March April and May, Sei Whales, Fin Whales.
Occasionally: Humpback Whales and Minke Whales – although not common.
[Jul-Sep] Summer – Pods
Striped dolphins, Atlantic Spotted Dolphins, Short-finned Pilot Whales, Bryde’s Whales, Northern Bottlenose Whales.
Occasionally: False Killer Whales.
