Azores: Swim with Wild Dolphins & Biologist Guide

Summary

Swim alongside wild dolphins in the Azores open sea guided by experts

You’ll join a small group in Ponta Delgada and head out with marine biologists to swim with wild dolphins in open Atlantic waters. After a safety briefing and some laughs with your guide, you’ll float quietly as dolphins glide past—sometimes curious, sometimes playful—and return with salt on your skin and something new inside you.

What’s the experience like?

We’d barely zipped up our wetsuits at the Ponta Delgada marina when our guide, Joana—a marine biologist who somehow manages to be both gentle and quietly hilarious—started explaining how we’d meet the dolphins on their terms. I liked that right away. The air had that salty tang you only get near deep water, and I remember my hands shaking a little from a mix of nerves and excitement. There’s something about knowing you’re not at an aquarium, but actually heading out into the Atlantic for a real encounter.

The boat ride itself was half the adventure—wind whipping around us, everyone clutching their masks and snorkels while Joana pointed out distant splashes (“That’s probably common dolphins… or maybe they’re just showing off,” she grinned). When we finally stopped, it was quiet except for gulls and the slap of water against the hull. We took turns slipping into the sea in small groups—no crowding, no shouting. Just floating there, mask fogging up a bit, waiting.

I didn’t expect how peaceful it would feel. The dolphins showed up almost out of nowhere—sleek shadows first, then flashes of silver as they circled below. Sometimes they came close enough to hear their little squeaks underwater (I swear one looked me right in the eye). It wasn’t some choreographed show; sometimes they just cruised past, other times they spun around like they were curious about us too. Joana kept checking on us from the boat, making sure everyone felt safe and reminding us to let the dolphins lead. She even laughed when I tried to say “golfinho” in Portuguese—probably butchered it.

Back on deck I sat dripping and grinning like an idiot, salt drying on my skin while someone passed around hot tea. It hit me then how rare it is to be so close to wild animals without feeling like you’re intruding. I still think about that quiet moment floating above them—how small I felt, but in a good way.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Swim with wild dolphins in Azores

• Arrive at Marina of Ponta Delgada
• Attend safety and briefing session
• Board Zodiac-style speedboat
• Search for dolphin pods at sea
• Swim with dolphins in small groups

Top questions

Do I need to be an experienced swimmer for this dolphin tour?

You must be able to swim confidently as you'll be snorkeling in open water during the tour.

Are the dolphins captive or truly wild?

The dolphins are completely wild; you’ll encounter them in their natural ocean habitat.

Is there a guide or expert on board?

Yes, tours are led by professional marine biologists who provide guidance and information throughout.

How many people are allowed per group?

The experience is limited to small groups for safety and respect toward the animals.

Where does this swim with wild dolphins tour start?

The tour begins at Picos de Aventura headquarters in Marina de Ponta Delgada.

What equipment is provided for swimming?

Your snorkeling gear—including mask and snorkel—is included with your booking.

Is this activity suitable for pregnant travelers?

No, it's not recommended for pregnant travelers due to physical requirements.

How do you find dolphin pods during the tour?

The crew uses lookout points on land along with their expertise to locate dolphin pods at sea.

What’s included

Your day includes expert guidance from marine biologists, use of all necessary snorkeling equipment, and careful supervision throughout your time at sea before returning to Ponta Delgada marina after your dolphin swim adventure.