Whale and dolphin-watching in the Azores

Dive Worldwide, in association with the Whale & Dolphin Conservation Society (WDCS), offers a 10-day holiday exploring the waters surrounding the Azorean archipelago aboard the specially-chartered catamaran Physeter, accompanied by some of the world’s most experienced cetacean experts.

The lush, green volcanic islands of the Portuguese Azorean archipelago still remain untouched by mass tourism and the surrounding waters are home to a wide variety of whales and dolphins. No fewer than 21 species have been seen in recent years of which 7 are regularly sighted.

Between 5 and 6 days will be spent whale and dolphin-watching aboard the catamaran Physeter, accompanied by experienced naturalists and scientific researchers engaged in the Whale-Watch Azores Project (one of a worldwide network of WDCS’ vital cetacean conservation projects).

Passengers will help the experts search for Sperm Whales, Bottlenose, Risso’s, Common, Spotted, and Striped Dolphins, together with rarer Rough-toothed Dolphins, Cuvier’s and Sowerby’s Beaked Whales, False Killer Whales, Humpbacks, Minkes, Fin and Sei Whales. The Physeter offers plenty of room for watching and photographing whales and dolphins thanks to its wide bow and three spacious deck areas. A further 2-3 days will be spent ashore enjoying land-based activities. Throughout the holiday, guests will be accommodated in an environmentally-friendly eco-lodge in Horta town, on the island of Faial.

The holiday costs from £1,295 p/p including transfers, accommodation, all meals excluding lunch and dinner on 2 shore days, whale and dolphin-watching onboard the Physeter and expert guiding. Last departure for 2008, from Horta - 11th August 08. Flights are not included.

For more information, visit Diveworldwide.com.