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Whale Watching Tour + Vila Franca Islet: Full-day with lunch

90 Reviews 4.53 out of 5 stars Based on 90 reviews collected by City Boat Tours and TripAdvisor |
Badge of Excellence |Badge of Excellence This experience is highly rated by travelers and has met our top quality standards.
Ponta Delgada, Portugal

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7 hours (approx.)
Mobile ticket
Instant confirmation

Overview

This tour combines two of São Miguel’s most iconic experiences in one seamless day: ethical whale watching guided by marine biologists and a visit to the stunning, volcanic Vila Franca Islet.

Few tours offer this mix of ocean wildlife and time to swim or relax inside a volcanic crater lagoon. You'll be guided by knowledgeable staff throughout, enjoy a tasty lunch, and explore a protected nature reserve that’s only accessible by boat.

It's the perfect balance of adventure, learning, and relaxation—all in one unforgettable day by sea and land!

Highlights:
- Whale and dolphin watching tour with marine biologists
- Learn about marine species and conservation during the briefing
- Cruise the Atlantic in search of whales, dolphins, and more
- Visit Vila Franca Islet, a protected volcanic crater island
- Swim or snorkel in the islet’s natural lagoon (seasonal access)

What's Included

  • Lunch
  • Boat Tour
  • Islet Tickets
  • Hotel Pick up
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Meeting Location

Meeting point

Bosco Mota Amaral
Avenida Dom João III, 9500-767 Ponta Delgada, Portugal

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Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

What To Expect

Discover the best of São Miguel on this full-day ocean adventure combining whale watching and a visit to the iconic Vila Franca Islet.

Start your day at the marina with a safety and species briefing led by our marine biologists, then head out to sea in search of whales and dolphins in their natural habitat. After the morning tour, enjoy a delicious lunchbox at the marina while we wait for our boat heading to Vila Franca do Campo Islet.

After a short boat ride, we arrive at a protected nature reserve and crater islet with crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or relaxing on the natural beach. Our guides will accompany you throughout the day, providing insights into local wildlife, geology, and culture. This experience offers the perfect mix of marine life, scenic beauty, and island discovery—all in one unforgettable day.

The type of boat used on this activity varies. It can be a Rigid Inflatable Speedboat or a Fiberglass boat. If you would like to know which boat we're using on a specific day, please send us an email.

Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Cetacean sightings are guaranteed. A partial refund will be offered if we don't spot any whales OR dolphins. The value of this refund is the equivalent of a regular whale watching tour.
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 30 travelers

Frequently Asked Questions

(14)

Q: Do you take pregnant customers snorkeling?

A: Yes, we allow pregnant women to go on snorkeling. However, it’s crucial to consult with your healthcare provider before doing so to assess your individual health and pregnancy stage. Read more Jan 2022

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

Still have questions?

We're here to help.
Activity code: C-11197P24

Traveler Photos

Reviews

4.53
90 reviews

Average 4.53 out of 5 stars based on 90 traveler reviews collected by City Boat Tours and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
66
4 stars
12
3 stars
7
2 stars
4
1 star
1

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What's Included

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

  • Lunch
  • Boat Tour
  • Islet Tickets
  • Use of Snorkelling equipment
  • Hotel Pick up

Additional Info

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Cetacean sightings are guaranteed. A partial refund will be offered if we don't spot any whales OR dolphins. The value of this refund is the equivalent of a regular whale watching tour.
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 30 travelers

Report Product Issue

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

Language & Country

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

Free Cancellation

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

100% refund
No refund

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

  • For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.
  • If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
  • Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.
  • Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (+00).
  • This tour requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

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American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

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