This trip searches the same rich Atlantic waters off Ponta Delgada for dolphins and whales as our catamaran option, but does so aboard a smaller, faster speedboat for a livelier ride.
The waters off São Miguel drop away quickly into deep Atlantic channels, which is a large part of why the island has built a reputation for dolphin and whale watching. This trip uses a speedboat rather than a catamaran, covering ground faster and giving a more exhilarating, hands-on feel to the crossing.
A trained crew searches for marine life using the same local knowledge and spotting techniques as any responsible whale-watching operator, scanning the water and listening for reports from other boats in the area.
The trade-off for the livelier ride is a firmer, bumpier experience than a catamaran, especially if the sea has any swell on the day. Passengers who prefer a smoother, more stable few hours at sea may find our catamaran option more comfortable.
As with any wildlife-watching trip, sightings depend on the animals themselves rather than the boat — the crew will search likely areas, but nothing in the ocean can be promised in advance.
Why cruise passengers choose this excursion
It suits passengers who've already tried a calmer wildlife-watching trip on a previous visit and want to experience the same waters from a faster, more hands-on angle.
- Faster, more exhilarating speedboat format
- Search for dolphins and whales in Azorean Atlantic waters
- Crew commentary and local spotting knowledge
- A livelier alternative to the catamaran trip
Cruise passenger snapshot
- Duration
- 3 Hours
- Best for
- Passengers who want a livelier, faster boat ride alongside the search for dolphins and whales
- Region
- Coastal waters off Ponta Delgada
- Pace
- Easy
- Stays near Ponta Delgada
- Yes — mainly within Ponta Delgada
- Weather considerations
- Marine conditions apply; Atlantic weather can affect comfort and sailing
Meeting instructions and return arrangements are confirmed by the excursion provider.
Highlights
- Faster, more exhilarating speedboat format
- Search for dolphins and whales in Azorean Atlantic waters
- Crew commentary and local spotting knowledge
- A livelier alternative to the catamaran trip
Included
- Return speedboat trip from Ponta Delgada
- Trained crew searching for marine life
- Safety equipment and briefing
Planning notes
As with any wildlife-watching trip, sightings of dolphins and whales are searched for, never guaranteed. The speedboat format is also firmer and wetter than a catamaran, so it may not suit passengers with back or neck concerns, or those particularly prone to seasickness.
Berth, gangway and meeting arrangements in Ponta Delgada can change. Follow your cruise line and excursion provider’s latest instructions. Always compare the excursion duration and meeting time with your ship’s all-aboard time.
Cruise suitability: At around three hours, this fits comfortably within most standard Ponta Delgada calls, just as the catamaran option does.
Wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed because the animals are in their natural environment.
Tips
- This is a firmer, faster ride than a catamaran; it may not suit passengers with back or neck issues, or those who are particularly prone to seasickness.
- Sightings of dolphins and whales are never guaranteed on any wildlife-watching trip, whichever boat you choose.
- Expect to get wetter and windier than on a catamaran — waterproof clothing and a secure bag for valuables are sensible.
- If you've already done a calmer wildlife-watching trip on a previous visit, this is a way to see the same waters from a different, faster perspective.