About this experience
Join a university-linked marine research team (MARE-start Up) and take part in ongoing Cetaceans monitoring. Depart from Madalena, Pico to explore one of the world’s most important cetacean hotspots.
Highlights
- Get a chance to see different species of whales and dolphins
- Spot whales, dolphins, and birds in their natural habitat
- Enjoy a whale and dolphin watching tour in the Azores
- Learn about the marine life from a marine biologist
- Benefit from a briefing about the marine biodiversity
What's included
- 3-hour boat trip
- Live commentary by a marine biologist
- Opportunity to see whales, dolphins, and birds
How to use
- Show Mobile Ticket
- At Redemption Counter
What to expect
We are a start up from the University of the Azores and Univ. of Lisbon where some of the staff still works. Naturalist is managed by two PhD marine researchers that decided to link Science and Tourism covering Marine Ecology and Climate Change. A Marine Biologist or a Marine Researcher will be on board to collect data and to provide you a unique experience with up-to-date information on marine life. When possible, a briefing precedes the trip, covering marine biodiversity and cetaceans occurring in the region and our project goals. These expeditions will be conducted in English, Portuguese. Tours in French, German, Spanish, Romanian or Italian need to be requested in advance and according to our availability. Value paid here is according to this platform and do not represent our public price.
Species/Species: With over 25 cetacean species in the region, normally 2 to 3 different are observed on each tour. Sperm whales year-round, Blue and Fin whales in spring, while Bryde and Sei whales can occur also in the summer + several dolphin species that are resident.
Transport: RIB boat 12-14 pax
Our expeditions take an average of 3 hours. We have tours in the morning at 09h00 and in the afternoon at 14h00.
As our boat is a semi-rigid, we do not recommend this activity in case of severe back problems or in case of pregnancy. Please note that trips depend on the weather conditions and can be rescheduled, with full refund in case of cancellation. Information about the presence of species is provided before each trip.
The weather is always in charge. If you contact us with your dates in Pico/ Faial and we will try to give you the best weather forecast.
Things to note
- Hat
- Water
- Comfortable clothes
- Camera
- Sunscreen
Terms & conditions
Weather-dependent activity; May be rescheduled due to weather conditions
Full refund for cancellations due to weather; Nature sets the schedule. To ensure the best experience, please share your dates in Faial or Pico—we’ll recommend the optimal days based on conditions and availability.
Tours run in English and Portuguese. Other languages on request, subject to availability of a marine researcher or biologist on your chosen date.