Whale watching a weather dependant activity !!!!

Whale watching is for some an activity one will experience only once in their lives and for others it’s a true passion.

It really does not matter how you experience whale watching but I would give some advice that might help some of you to plan your next whale watching tour in Azores or anywhere else in the world !

Whale watching depends on weather, the wind and swell are big factors that alter the ocean waves. Even though it can be nice weather at land, out at sea the story might be different. Because the weather varies the ability to observe animals, one needs to understand that the ocean is always a changing environment. For this very important reason it is always advised not to book on your last day of vacations in case of cancellations for safety reasons.

This saturday we were able to go out because the sea conditions allowed us to, the waves were high but our “Vigia” spotted a group of Atlantic Spotted dolphins (Stenella frontalis). But not only Filipe our lookout man spotted the animals, but also our enthusiastic and adventurous guests spotted not one but three Loggerhead turtles (Caretta caretta).

Loggerhead turtle – Caretta caretta

We all really enjoyed so much our tour and appreciated the ocean and the navigating skills of our skyper.

So always remember weather dependent activities need planning for all scenarios possible, as well as I encourage everybody to keep whale watching any time one is confronted with the opportunity to observe marine wildlife in their natural environment.

Anaïs Builly

About Anaïs Builly

Anais Builly is Marine Biologist and Master of Biology, Ecology and Ecosystems, and of Bioproducts & Bioproduction of Marine Ecosystems, studied in France and South Africa. She is also Marine Wildlife Guide & Community Manager at TERRA AZUL. She is passionate about conservation of marine mammals, and loves being out in the ocean everyday.