The Azores · CRUISES & BOAT TOURS
Good cruises & boat tours fill up weeks ahead and the great ones go first. Below: the 15 to book early, what each includes and how they differ.
Marine biologist-led whale watching from Vila Franca do Campo with guaranteed sightings, zodiac comfort, and a volcanic islet loop on São Miguel.
“Enjoyed it very much. Our guide was very enthusiastic. We saw a sperm whale, pilot whales, and white spotted dolphins. Great trip”
Marine biologist whale cruise from São Miguel with ethical spotting, a fast search by lookout radio, and refund help if whales don’t show.
“It was so much fun exploring the waters on the zodiac boat. You go fast and it can be bumpy so not for those wanting a smooth ride. We saw so many dolphins and got to see two whales as well. Overall the team is excellent and really did all they could to make our time enjoyable.”
Glass-bottom boat and guided snorkeling near São Miguel, led by biologists, with real marine spotting and protected-islet views.
“My husband and I had the best time! They helped us to reschedule our tour for an earlier time due to the weather conditions. The captain was the BEST CAPTAIN! if you want to have a great time and have an amazing experience- BOOK IT ASAP!”
A quiet electric e-boat circles Vila Franca Islet with a biologist guide, teaching geology and wildlife on a 1-hour outing.
“Superb and very informative. Was a bit apprehensive about the boat as not the greatest of sea travelers however there was no need. Thoroughly enjoyed it. 😁”
Zodiac whale and dolphin watching from Lajes do Pico, Pico Island. Spot whales, dolphins, turtles, birds in 2.5 hours.
“So plenty of dolphins and Whales. The guides were friendly and informative.”
Glass-bottom boat plus guided snorkeling near Vila Franca do Campo islet in São Miguel, Azores. Marine biologist, gear, and sea-life viewing.
“Great experience for the kids. Everything was great from start to finish. All equipment that we needed was provided by oceaneye.”
Terceira, Azores zodiac whale watching with Water4fun. 2.5 hours, Monte Brasil spotter guidance, whales and dolphins.
“Guide looked after everyone from start to the end perfectly. We saw dolphins , false killer whales and a sperm whale. Does what is says on the tin.”
3-hour RIB trip from Horta with university biologists. Look for sperm, blue, and fin whales, dolphins, turtles, and seabirds.
“Great experience and a guide who explained a lot. The Skipper moved carefully and in a certain distance to the whales. I can recommend it 100%. Also the water proofed clothes were super.”
Boat trip from Flores to Corvo with caves, waterfalls and marine life, small group, 7.5 hours, around $41 per person.
“Capitano molto esperto e simpatico, la gita è stata molto bella ed in linea con quello che mi aspettavo. Abbiamo visto la costa di Flores e poi diretti a Corvo. (Niente delfini o altro, ma fa niente!!)”
Boat from Flores to Corvo in a Zodiac, with cave and waterfall time plus marine sightings. Small island walking, big Atlantic thrills.
“PLS CHOOSE THIS BOAT to go to Corvo. I sailed the sea all of my life and was really impressed by Fabian. His eye for safety and skills are apprent from the first moments you step on his boat. On top of that he and his wife Katy are very friendly and will do everything in there power to give you a great experience. 10 out of 10, we even spotten a flock of dolfins!”
Small group English boat tour from Rabo de Peixe to surf beaches and volcanic caves, with safe driving, tea, and jaw-dropping views.
“Awesome time all around! We even got to see some dolphins which was a little rare for the time of year. Everyone made sure we were comfortable and safe onboard. Highly recommend for couples and groups! Very cool sightseeing and great tour guides with lots of information.”
From Horta Marina, sail close to Capelinhos volcano on a 3 hour Faial boat tour with expert guides, sea life chances, and coastal stops.
“Dit was de leukste ervaring sinds we op de Azoren zijn. De gids, Kamila is de meest enthousiaste en innemende gids die ik ooit heb gezien. Ze vertelde met zoveel plezier alles over het eiland Faial, de kust, vulkanen en bezienswaardigheden vanaf het water. Met de boot kom je op plekken waar je anders vanaf land nooit kan komen. Er absolute aanrader om deze tour te boeken!”
Half-day Sete Cidades tour from Ponta Delgada with glasshouse pineapple tasting, Blue and Green Lake viewpoints, and volcano caldera stops.
“Took a half-day tour with Andrea who was friendly and courteous. Visited the Santo Antonio pineapple plantation, vista do Rei Miradouro and the Blue and Green Lake at Sete Cidades. Amazing views and experience. Highly recommended!”
Private boat ride from Vila Franca do Campo to the volcanic islet, guided walk onshore, and Atlantic views plus marine and bird insights.
“Well worth the cost! Tiago and Miguel were amazing and very knowledgeable tour guides. Highly recommend!”
Snorkel at Ilhéu das Cabras from Angra do Heroísmo on Terceira, guided with gear and wetsuits, with time for birds and marine life.
“Ci siamo trovate benissimo a bordo e nel fare snorkeling supportate e guidate da un esperto!:)”
Every kind of day out across the islands, and the best of each.
