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Pico is a fascinating island both scenically and geologically. Vews of Fin and Sperm Whales earlier in the week were eclipsed by a dazzling day of Loggerhead Turtles, Common, Bottlenose and sparring Risso's Dolphins with an afternoon gazing in awe at the incredible length of not one, but two Blue Whales. Luck plays a part of course, but Naturetrek and the expertise of the local partners enabled views that would be hard to beat anywhere in the world. Memorable - another tick on anyone's wildlife 'bucket list.' But much more than that - a real insight into a cetaceans world about which we still know comparatively little.
N.J. London
Tour Itinerary and Reports
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Great Whales of the Azores (Pico)
Tour Code: PRT12A 9-day holiday to the island of Pico in the centre of the Azores archipelago, timed to coincide with the arrival of migrating Fin, Sei and Blue Whales, which join resident Sperm Whales and dolphins each spring.
9 days
from
£2,595 (Inc flights)
£2,595 (Inc flights)
Land only price
from
£2,295
£2,295
Highlights
Tour Itinerary and Reports
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Summary
For this whale-watching holiday to the Azores we are offering two separate itineraries. The first, based on São Miguel, involves direct flights from London to Ponta Delgada (on São Miguel), a short transfer to a marina-side hotel and whale-watching excursions focusing on Fin and Sperm Whales, with a chance of seeing a passing Blue Whale and other cetaceans. The second is based on Pico, which is reached by a flight from London via Lisbon (with an overnight stay in the vibrant Portuguese capital) and is more suited to those who are very keen to have a higher chance of seeing Blue Whales, as statistically this iconic species is more frequently recorded in this central part of the Azores than in the east. Both Fin and Sperm Whales, as well as other cetaceans, are also seen regularly off Pico. The Azores archipelago is thought to provide a convenient ‘midway stopover’ for populations of Blue and Fin Whales to refuel during their journey between southern breeding grounds and their summer foraging sites in eastern Greenland and Iceland to the north, and this holiday (both itineraries) is timed to coincide with their migration. There will be a day’s birdwatching on each tour, as well as a leisure day for relaxing or doing additional activities.
PLEASE NOTE: This tour can be combined with our Great Whales of the Azores (Sao Miguel) tour. See PRT11.
- Blue Whales stop over in Azorean waters on migration each spring
- Fin, Humpback, Sei and Bryde's Whales all possible in May
- Sperm Whales, plus Bottlenose, Risso’s & Short-beaked Common Dolphins seen year-round
- Striped & Atlantic Spotted Dolphins possible in May
- Roseate Tern and island ‘races’ of birds such as Chaffinch & Goldcrest
- A leisure day with optional activities
- Choice of combining with our 8-day tour to São Miguel focusing on more great whales and Azore's Bullfinch
- Led by expert naturalist guides throughout
Far out in the Atlantic Ocean, where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates meet, the nine islands of the Azores archipelago lie in an arc along the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, rising to just over 2,351 metres at their highest point, Mount Pico. The Azores offers the best whale-watching opportunities in Europe, and each spring the resident Sperm Whales are joined by other great whales, including the largest animal thought to have ever lived, the Blue Whale. The islands are also home to many breeding seabirds such as Cory’s Shearwater, and several endemics including Azores Bullfinch and Azores Chaffinch. All of the islands in the archipelago have volcanic origins. Situated in the eastern Azores, São Miguel is the largest and boasts impressive bubbling calderas and iron-rich thermal pools as well as gardens nestling in secluded valleys and hiking trails with wonderful vistas at every turn. Pico lies in the centre of the archipelago, on the Azores Platform, just to the east of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, and its surrounding seas are a particularly important stopover for migrating whales heading north to their summer feeding grounds.
Based on Pico, which is reached by a flight from London via Lisbon (with an overnight stay in the vibrant Portuguese capital), this tour is more suited to those who are very keen to have a higher chance of seeing Blue Whales, as statistically this iconic species is more frequently recorded in this central part of the Azores than in the east. Fin, Sei and Sperm Whales as well as other cetaceans are also seen regularly off Pico and neighbouring Faial. Several species of large baleen whale migrate annually north and south through the Atlantic Ocean, their journeys taking them across vast areas where food is seldom abundant. The Azores archipelago is thought to provide a convenient ‘midway stopover’ for populations of Blue, Sei and Fin Whales to refuel during their journey between breeding grounds further south, and their summer feeding sites in eastern Greenland and Iceland to the north. Studies have shown that individuals typically remain around the Azores from between a few days and two months and that the highest number of baleen whale sightings occurs in May. Fin Whales are the most frequently recorded species at this time, although small numbers of Minke, Sei, Bryde's and Blue Whales are also seen each spring. They join the resident Sperm Whales, plus three dolphin species: Bottlenose, Risso’s and Short-beaked Common Dolphin. Striped and Atlantic Spotted Dolphins arrive with the warmer currents during the late spring and early summer.
During our stay in the Azores, we will join expert local marine biologists and guides — on exhilarating RIBs — to search for Fin, Blue and Sei Whales, as well as other species of cetacean, on half-day boat trips (weather permitting). We will scan the ocean for signs of these cetaceans, which are attracted here by the annual spring plankton bloom. Being close to these huge animals is one of life’s most moving and exciting experiences. Whale-watching guidelines are strictly adhered to in the Azores, allowing us to only approach within a comfortable distance for the whale. Feeding animals move quickly, however, and we may find that a whale chooses to swim alongside our vessel; it is an unforgettable thrill to see the vast outline of an animal the length of two school buses end to end just metres away!
There will also be an opportunity to explore some of the different birdwatching sites on the island, and there will be a ‘free day’ during each tour which may be spent at leisure. We are also likely to come across a variety of other species during our stay including Barolo Shearwater, Roseate Tern, Whimbrel, Atlantic Canary and the Azorean race of Common Buzzard.
Please note that our exact itinerary will be kept flexible, taking into account the weather conditions during the course of each holiday. After a week of exciting whale-watching, some gentle birdwatching on land and tasty Azorean cuisine and wine, it will be time to leave our island home and make the short drive back to the airport for our flight to London.
Outline Itinerary
Day 1
Fly London to Lisbon. Overnight Lisbon.
Day 2
Fly Lisbon to Horta, Faial. Transfer Pico. Afternoon whale-watching.
Day 3/4
Morning and afternoon whale-watching.
Day 5
Full-day birdwatching excursion.
Day 6
Day at leisure with optional activities.
Day 7/8
Morning and afternoon whale-watching.
Day 9
Transfer Horta. Fly London, via Lisbon.
What's Included?
- Flights
- Accommodation: A comfortable hotel near the sea. All rooms have private facilities.
- Food:
Breakfasts are included, lunches and dinners are excluded from the tour price. Allow £45 per day for these.
Reviews
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Our whale watching trip in the Azores exceeded expectations with over 40 cetacean sitings. CW Azores, the local company, are a very professional operation and all the staff were fully committed to giving us the best experiences while fully respecting the animals. The Naturetrek guide Cathy Harlow was second to none.
M.D. London -
I think the small group worked really well on this holiday. I enjoyed most getting close to the sperm whales, blue whales, fin whales and the common dolphins.
G.S. Dorset -
The organisation was amazing, especially when the weather was against us. The friendliness of the local guides and the trip leader. Having never been into wildlife, this was a fun and inspiring trip that's opened my eyes.
B.B. Dorset -
Fantastic sightings of whales of four species plus lots of other animals. Really nice group of people - just the right size too. Very nice, helpful people at the whale watching organisation.
C.B. Hampshire -
Sara's knowledge, enthusiasm, good humour and organisational abilities ensured a very enjoyable trip. Highlights - all cetacean sightings, especially Blue Whale close to the boat.
Mr & Mrs M. Wiltshire -
Very good itinerary but unfortunately the weather was a challenge with wind, rain and rough seas, however we did have excellent sightings and close sightings of blue and fin whales and dolphins.
S.B. West Yorkshire -
I thought the whole trip went smoothly, Naturetrek working with the local whale watching company and getting the job done. Our guide Cathy was always on hand to sort any minor hiccup out, or organise the day events or just talk and discuss things with.
G.R. Lincolnshire -
From start to finish, everything was excellent. Cathy was a pleasure to be with, her knowledge and help invaluable. She worked non stop to make sure everyone had a fantastic holiday. An excellent tour leader. One of the best so far with Naturetrek.
Mr & Mrs A. Derbyshire -
What a trip - many thanks to Ed for such good organisational and leadership skills. No one can organise the weather but luck was with us for a superb whale and dolphin spectacular - the 'blue' icing on the cake - to see not one but two of the largest animals that have ever lived. Wow! The local guides were brilliant too!
J.B. Norfolk
Dates & Prices
2025
Departures
Availability
Cost
Fri 2nd May – Sat 10th May
FULL
£2,595
Flights:
Most Naturetrek tours include flight costs ex-UK. If flights are not included, we indicate that here.
Flights are included in the tour cost
Regional Departures:
On certain tours it is possible to depart from a regional airport (rather than London). If a regional departure is possible, we indicate that here.
Regional Departures are available. Call 01962733051
Land only cost:
The "Land Only" cost is the tour price you will pay if you choose to arrange your own flights/transport.
£2,395
Single Room Supplement:
Single Room Supplement.
£395
Fri 9th May – Sat 17th May
2
£2,595
Flights:
Most Naturetrek tours include flight costs ex-UK. If flights are not included, we indicate that here.
Flights are included in the tour cost
Regional Departures:
On certain tours it is possible to depart from a regional airport (rather than London). If a regional departure is possible, we indicate that here.
Regional Departures are available. Call 01962733051
Land only cost:
The "Land Only" cost is the tour price you will pay if you choose to arrange your own flights/transport.
£2,295
Single Room Supplement:
Single Room Supplement.
£395
Tour Leader:
Please note that, whilst we assign leaders to particular tours well in advance, we reserve the right to make changes if necessary
Hazel Pittwood
Tour Leader: Hazel Pittwood
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[description] => Whale Watching Cruises – See Whales in their Wild Habitat
Seeing whales in the wild is one of the top 10 things most people want to do during their lifetime. Scanning the water, waiting to hear a blow or see a dorsal fin, is one of the top wildlife experiences in the world, and it can get addictive! A sighting of whales in their natural habitat is consistently rated in the top 10 wildlife experiences in the world. These gentle giants of the ocean hold a special place in our hearts. Our dedicated small group tours offer the thrilling opportunity of an up-close-and-personal encounter in the wild; scanning the water, waiting for the sound of a blow or the sight of a dorsal fin is both thrilling and addictive.
Naturetrek Whale Watching Tours
Our dedicated small group whale-watching holidays encompass a range of destinations all over the world to offer the best chance of sightings on short trips or longer cruises. Whether it’s a day excursion in the UK or an extended 14-day cruise to an exotic far-flung location, we offer the chance to encounter these giant cetaceans in all of the world’s oceans, from the tropics to the Polar regions.
Depending on the location, our itineraries can focus on one or several of the planet’s 86 key species, including Blue and Killer Whales, or form part of a broader wildlife-watching experience to encounter dolphins, birdlife and other marine species. Led by expert biologist or naturalist guides, our tours often allow participants to get thrillingly close to one of the most fascinating animals on Earth. We've been organising specialist wildlife tours for 32 years and our experience, passion and knowledge have earned us a reputation as the best in the business. Our range of whale-watching holidays is so popular that we are rapidly expanding our programme to include some of the most exciting, wildlife-rich places in the world.
Why book a Naturetrek whale & dolphin watching holiday?
- Expert biologist-led & wildlife photographer-led holidays
- Dedicated whale-watching tours focusing on one or a few key species
- Many of our whale-watching tours offer the chance to see dolphins as well (and vice versa)
- A range of tours from day trips out on small boats to week-long liveaboard cruises
- A chance to look for cetaceans in all of the world’s oceans, from polar waters to the tropics
- A wide range of the world’s 86 species are seen on our whale-watching holidays, including Blue Whales & Killer Whales
- A wide range of the world's dolphin species have also been seen, from Bottlenose and Risso’s, to Spinner, Striped and Heaviside’s
Our specialist recommends...
"In the UK I'd recommend our full-day dolphin tours to look for White-beaked dolphins off Lyme Bay. Madeira offers a good variety of dolphins close to shore including Risso's, Atlantic Spotted and Common, while if you fancy warm tropical waters Sri Lanka or the Maldives offer a good range of acrobatic species in sunny conditions!"
Sara Frost - Tour Leader & Marketing Manager
Sara Frost - Tour Leader & Marketing Manager
Family Wildlife Tours – Education and Adventure in the Wild
Integrating some of the world’s top wildlife spectacles into a family holiday with your children or grandchildren is an inspirational way to spend a half term or longer holiday and we offer tours focusing on a range of iconic wildlife from Tigers to Brown Bears, often with a little culture thrown in. We believe older teenagers will enjoy the majority of our group holidays, although unfortunately not all of our group tours are suitable for young children. We would be very happy to adapt any of our group tours to create bespoke itineraries to meet your family’s requirements and our expert team are always on hand to offer some fresh ideas for private holidays that can be enjoyed by families of any age, allowing you to curate those precious memories that will last a lifetime.
Naturetrek Family Wildlife Tours
It can be tricky for families to find a good wildlife holiday that meets their needs during school holidays. We are always pleased to provide suggestions for holidays that fit around the family calendar and also coincide with the best chances for wildlife sightings. Many of these holidays offer significant discounts for children. Whether you choose to travel as one family, or join your friends to form an extended group, we are here to help every step of the way.
Here’s a selection of our family wildlife tours:
- South Africa – a big game safari in Kruger National Park
- Visit the Taj Mahal and look for Tigers in northern India
- Watch Brown Bears in Sweden from a purpose-built cabin
- Enjoy the whales & dolphins of the Azores
Can I take children on other Naturetrek tours?
Some of our tours are more suitable for children than others. Some holidays may involve very long days spent out in the field, and a great deal of patience can be required as we quietly sit, wait and scan for our quarry. Experience teaches us that this is something many young children tend to struggle with, and so to be fair to them and our other guests, we are unable to accept young children on most of our group tours. Having said that, we love nothing more than nurturing the interests of intrepid young naturalists and once interested children reach secondary school age (11+) then generally our group tours work well and an interested child can get a great deal out of a Naturetrek group holiday. Please bear in mind, however, that the average age on our group tours is 60+! Alternatively, we are often asked to tailor our itineraries to ensure suitability for children of any age. If there is a group tour that you think would be of particular interest to you and your family party please contact one of our Operations Managers to discuss the possibility of a private departure.
Our specialist recommends...
"We offer a good choice of short-haul holidays for families such as Bear watching and whale and dolphin trips. However, if you fancy something further afield, I’d recommend our ‘Tigers & the Taj’ Tailormade tour. The combination of culture, wildlife and adventure is a perfect one.”
David Mills - Managing Director
David Mills - Managing Director
Dolphin Watching – See Dolphins in the Wild
Seeing dolphins in the wild consistently ranks high on people’s lists of ’10 Things To See Before I Die’. Dolphins have captured the public imagination arguably more than any other animal – we marvel at their intelligence, grace and agility, as well as their apparent curiosity of their human observers.
Naturetrek Dolphin Watching Tours
Naturetrek offers the chance to watch dolphins all over the world, from the UK to the tropics and polar regions. Many of our dolphin tours also offer the opportunity to see whales. We offer:
- Dedicated dolphin tours focusing on one or a few key species
- Dolphin watching as part of a broader wildlife watching tour
- A range of tours from day trips out on small boats to week-long liveaboard cruises
- Expert biologist-led, photographer-led and researcher-led tours
- A wide range of the world’s dolphin species seen, from Bottlenose and Risso’s, to Spinner, Striped and Heaviside’s
Our range of dolphin watching holidays includes:
- A Maldives Cruise – a cruise through the turquoise waters surrounding the Maldives, searching for dolphins and whales as well as snorkeling over the reefs
- Monterey Bay – enjoying the dolphins, whales and bird life of California’s Monterey Bay
- The Azores – Look for Sperm Whales and other cetaceans
- Madeira – a 5-day holiday focusing on dolphin watching
Our specialist recommends...
"In the UK I'd recommend our full-day dolphin tours to look for White-beaked dolphins off Lyme Bay. Madeira offers a good variety of dolphins close to shore including Risso's, Atlantic Spotted and Common, while if you fancy warm tropical waters Sri Lanka or the Maldives offer a good range of acrobatic species in sunny conditions!"
Sara Frost - Tour Leader & Marketing Manager
Sara Frost - Tour Leader & Marketing Manager
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Why Naturetrek?
At Naturetrek we craft expertly-guided group and tailor-made wildlife holidays and cruises to all seven continents. On one of our holidays, you can be assured that our passionate team will enable you to experience and enjoy the best of the world's wildlife and natural spectacles in as comfortable and rewarding a manner as possible, caring as best we can for the environment in the process. We are proud to provide:
- The widest choice of wildlife holidays worldwide
- Tours managed and led by naturalists, for naturalists
- Outstanding value and exceptional customer service
Furthermore, as a Naturetrek client, our office team are always to on hand to help you – so if you have any queries about your holiday, whether before or after you have booked, we will be delighted to answer them on the phone. Please just give our team a call!
