PICO Whale Watching – Madalena – Join our Research Team

Discover the opportunity to see whales, dolphins, and seabirds in their natural habitat with the PICO Whale Watching tour departing from Madalena, Pico Island. Priced at $85 per person and lasting 3 hours, this tour combines wildlife viewing with the chance to support marine research conducted by a team linked to the University of Lisbon. With a stellar rating of 4.9 out of 5 from 36 reviews, the experience emphasizes education, conservation, and respectful animal observation. The boat departs from Bar da Gare and is suitable for those who enjoy nature, learning, and marine life.

While the tour is weather-dependent and not recommended for pregnant women, people with back problems, or children under 4 years, it offers a meaningful way to encounter over 25 species of cetaceans in the Azores. Expect to see sperm whales year-round, blue and common whales in spring, and Bryde’s and Sei whales during summer. The experience is ideal for those who appreciate knowledgeable guides, scientific insights, and responsible wildlife viewing.

Key Points

• Supports marine research tied to the University of Lisbon, adding an educational and conservation dimension
• 3-hour boat trip departing from Madalena, Pico Island
• Learn from MSc or PhD marine biologists about cetaceans, sea turtles, and seabirds
• Likely to see 2-3 whale or dolphin species per trip, including sperm whales year-round
• Weather-dependent activity, full refunds available if canceled due to weather
• Not suitable for pregnant women or those with serious back problems or children under 4

You can check availability for your dates here:

Departing from Madalena’s Bar da Gare

The tour begins at Bar da Gare, located outside the Ferry Terminal on Pico Island. The exact GPS coordinates are 38.5356, -28.5295, facing Faial. This central meeting point makes it easy for travelers arriving by ferry or on local transport. The departure involves boarding a semi-rigid boat that is suitable for wildlife viewing and supports active data collection by marine researchers.

The meeting point is straightforward, and the tour staff emphasize punctuality due to weather considerations. The boat trip covers a scenic stretch of the Azores waters, offering views of the coastlines and marine environment. Group sizes tend to be manageable, fostering an intimate atmosphere for wildlife observation and learning.

The 3-Hour Whale Watching Experience in Pico

The core of this tour is a 3-hour boat trip that focuses on wildlife spotting and marine biology education. The boat is equipped for viewing and is operated by a team of marine biologists supporting research efforts. During the trip, a live commentary in English or Portuguese is provided, highlighting species identification, behavior, and conservation issues.

The boat’s design and approach prioritize the wellbeing of animals, maintaining respectful distances and avoiding disturbance. Travelers can expect to see whales and dolphins in their natural environment, with 2-3 species typically visible during each outing. The marine biodiversity briefing enriches the experience, making it more than just a sightseeing tour.

What Marine Species Are Commonly Sighted?

Over 25 species of cetaceans inhabit the Azores waters, and the tour often captures sperm whales at any time of year. In spring, blue and common whales are more frequently spotted, while Bryde’s and Sei whales tend to appear during summer. Resident dolphins are also part of the sightings, along with seabirds and possibly sea turtles.

The guides’ expertise ensures that viewing respects the animals’ space. This responsible approach has earned praise from previous participants, who appreciate the consciousness and knowledgeable explanations of the wildlife. The chances of seeing multiple species make each trip unique and exciting.

The Marine Biologist Guides and Their Role

Each tour is led by marine biologists pursuing MSc or PhD degrees, often affiliated with the University of Lisbon or partner universities. These guides provide in-depth information about the species encountered, their life cycles, and behavioral patterns.

The guides also collect data as part of ongoing research, contributing to marine conservation efforts. The live commentary is engaging and educational, with many reviews highlighting the guides’ knowledge and friendliness. This professional expertise elevates the experience beyond typical whale watching, making it informative and respectful of the environment.

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The Boat and Viewing Conditions

The semi-rigid boat used for this tour is designed for stability and good visibility. It accommodates small groups, ensuring a more personal experience. Since the activity is weather-dependent, trips may be rescheduled or fully refunded if conditions are unsuitable.

Passengers are advised to bring a hat, camera, sunscreen, water, and comfortable clothing. The tour is not recommended for those with serious back issues or pregnancy, and children under 4 are discouraged from participating. The tour’s pacing allows ample time for wildlife observation, with plenty of opportunities for photographers and nature enthusiasts.

Meeting, Pacing, and Group Size

The meeting point at Bar da Gare offers easy access for visitors arriving by ferry or local transportation. The group sizes typically remain manageable, fostering an interactive environment where guides can focus on each participant’s questions and interests.

The pacing ensures travelers have enough time to spot and enjoy marine life without feeling rushed. The full 3 hours allow for a relaxed yet engaging experience, with room for educational commentary and wildlife watching. The activity is family-friendly for children over 4, though the boat’s semi-rigid design may not be suitable for those with severe back problems.

The Cost and What’s Included

At $85 per person, the tour offers excellent value considering the expert guides, research support, and wildlife encounters. The 3-hour boat trip includes live commentary by a marine biologist and the chance to see whales, dolphins, and seabirds.

What isn’t included are food and drinks or hotel pickup and drop-off—participants meet directly at Bar da Gare. Optional child discounts are available; interested travelers should reach out for more details.

Responsible Wildlife Viewing and Conservation Efforts

This tour takes pride in its conservation ethic. The guides are trained to maintain a respectful distance from the animals, ensuring their wellbeing is prioritized. The research component means that data is collected to support marine biodiversity studies, and participants contribute directly to these efforts.

Previous reviews praise the guides’ attentiveness to animal welfare, noting that animals are never chased or rushed, and their natural behaviors are observed in comfort. This responsible approach makes the tour particularly appealing to those interested in eco-tourism.

Weather, Cancellations, and Practical Tips

The activity is weather-dependent, so trips may be rescheduled or canceled if conditions are unsafe. Full refunds are available if cancellations occur due to weather. Travelers are advised to check weather forecasts and communicate directly with the tour provider as the trip date approaches.

For a comfortable experience, bring a hat, sunscreen, camera, water, and comfortable clothes. Since the activity involves being on the water, it’s best for those with good mobility and no significant seasickness.

Who Might Enjoy This Tour Most?

This tour is perfect for marine life enthusiasts, conservation-minded travelers, and those eager to support scientific research. It appeals to adults and older children over 4 who are comfortable with boat rides and outdoor activities. The presence of knowledgeable guides and scientific data collection makes it an engaging option for educational experiences.

However, it may not suit pregnant women, people with back issues, or very young children. The weather dependency requires some flexibility in planning, but the full refund policy offers peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the whale watching tour?
The tour lasts 3 hours from departure to return.

Where does the tour depart from?
The meeting point is Bar da Gare outside the Ferry Terminal in Madalena, Pico Island.

What species of whales and dolphins might I see?
You could see sperm whales year-round, blue and common whales in spring, Bryde’s and Sei whales in summer, and resident dolphins.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It is not recommended for children under 4 years old. The boat is semi-rigid and better suited for older children and adults.

What should I bring?
Prepare hat, camera, sunscreen, water, and comfortable clothes for a day on the water.

Is the activity weather-dependent?
Yes. Tours may be rescheduled or canceled if weather conditions are unsafe, with full refunds for cancellations due to weather.

How knowledgeable are the guides?
Guides are marine biologists pursuing MSc or PhD degrees, offering expert insights into marine life and conservation.

What makes this tour different from others?
Its research support component and connection to universities make it stand out, combining wildlife viewing with scientific contribution.

Are food or drinks provided?
No, food and drinks are not included. Participants should bring their own.

Can I participate if I have back problems or am pregnant?
No, the activity is not recommended for pregnant women or those with serious back issues.

This PICO Whale Watching tour offers a balanced mix of wildlife discovery, education, and conservation in the stunning waters surrounding Pico Island. Its expert guides and scientific focus make it a meaningful choice for those eager to support marine research while witnessing the majesty of whales and dolphins in their natural environment.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby