Pico Island: Whale & Dolphin Watching Tour with Marine Biologists

Summary

Whale watching in the Azores with local guides and real ocean moments

You’ll ride out from Pico Island with marine biologists and local guides, learning about whales and dolphins before heading onto open water. Watch for pods racing by or a whale surfacing nearby—it’s unpredictable but unforgettable. Includes all fees and a pre-tour briefing so you can focus on spotting wildlife, feeling the sea air, and maybe catching yourself smiling at nothing in particular.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered what it’s like to just sit on a boat off Pico Island, waiting for a whale to break the surface? I hadn’t really pictured it until we were there, clutching our rain jackets and listening to Ana (our guide) explain how the “vigia” up on the hill would radio in if he spotted anything. The sea was restless that morning—wind sharp but not cold, and I could smell salt everywhere, even before we left the harbor. There was this nervous excitement in our group, you know? Like nobody wanted to say out loud how much we hoped we’d actually see something.

The briefing was more interesting than I expected—Ana talked about 27 species of cetaceans around the Azores, but she also told stories about her own favorite encounters. She had this way of laughing at her own jokes that made everyone relax a bit. Once we got out onto the water, time started to feel weirdly slow. At first, all I noticed was the slap of waves against the hull and someone’s sunscreen mixing with diesel fumes. Then suddenly—someone shouted “there!” and everyone scrambled to one side (probably not what you’re supposed to do). A pod of dolphins zipped by so close I could hear their breaths puffing out. It was quick but somehow felt longer than it was.

We did spot whales too—just for a few moments, a dark back arching up before sliding under again. Not gonna lie, I almost missed it because I was fumbling with my camera (classic). Ana pointed out which species it was—I think sperm whale?—and explained how they use spotters on land because the ocean is just too big otherwise. The whole thing felt kind of humbling; you’re just this tiny person floating above these huge animals doing their thing below.

I still think about that silence after the dolphins left—the boat rocking gently, everyone sort of lost in their own thoughts for a second. It wasn’t flashy or dramatic but it stuck with me more than I expected. If you’re looking for whale watching in Pico Island and want something real (not staged), this half day trip is worth it—even if your hair ends up salty and wild by lunchtime.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Whale and dolphin watching tour

• Attend briefing presentation
• Board boat for 2.5-hour tour
• Search for marine mammals

Top questions

How long does the whale & dolphin watching tour last?

The boat tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours, plus time for a pre-tour briefing.

Is this Pico Island whale watching tour suitable for kids?

The tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels but not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal injuries.

Are professional guides included on this tour?

Yes, marine biologists and experienced skippers lead the experience along with local “vigia” spotters.

What’s included in the price of this Azores whale watching trip?

All fees and taxes are included in your booking price.

Where does the Pico Island dolphin watching tour start?

The tour starts at the harbor on Pico Island after an initial briefing session.

What’s included

Your half-day includes a detailed pre-tour briefing led by marine biologists, all necessary fees and taxes covered upfront, plus a 2.5-hour guided boat trip from Pico Island into Atlantic waters—so you just show up ready to watch whales and dolphins alongside local experts.