Awards & Distinctions

Futurismo Azores Adventures was represented by our Commercial, Sales, and Impact Director, Carlos Picanço, at the first edition of the Forbes Green ESG Awards, an initiative promoted by Forbes Portugal in partnership with BCSD Portugal, supported by Prio and Cimpor.

We were nominated in the Storyteller for Sustainability category, which recognizes projects that effectively and coherently communicate sustainability values. Our submission included the Futurismo website, the People | Planet | Wildlife brochure, the Futurismo Guidebook, videos, and articles—showcasing how communication can serve as a tool for education, awareness, and transformation toward responsible and impactful tourism for all.

The final award in this category was given to Natural Business Intelligence, recognized for its solid work in biodiversity, ecosystem services, natural capital, and climate adaptation. We extend our congratulations to them!

We are proud to be among the finalists, alongside nationally recognized projects and organizations, in an award that highlights sustainable best practices across the Portuguese economy, both public and private.

This recognition reaffirms the path we have been following—bridging science, education, culture, and responsible tourism. It also underscores the power of marketing and communication when used correctly, consistently, and honestly to create positive impact.

We remain committed to strengthening our work and increasing the impact we can achieve.

Each year, TripAdvisor recognize the world's best destinations, hotels, dining establishments, and experiences through our Travelers' Choice Best of the Best awards.
These distinctions are solely influenced by travelers - real travelers who've shared their opinions and stories based on the past year's reviews and ratings.
The winners encapsulate the essence of our collective journey, reflecting the places we ventured to and the new adventures we embraced.
Stay tuned throughout the year as we unveil winners across categories, a testament to the power of authentic travel experiences.

The World Travel Market (WTM) Responsible Travel Awards stand as a beacon of recognition for responsible and sustainable practices within the travel industry. For a distinguished Azorean tour operator like Futurismo Azores Adventures, these awards hold immense significance. Being acknowledged on this prestigious platform not only validates our commitment to ethical and sustainable tourism but also amplifies the Azores' profile as a leading sustainable travel destination. These awards provide an invaluable opportunity to showcase our efforts in preserving the pristine Azorean environment, fostering community well-being, and offering transformative experiences that have a positive impact on both travelers and the local ecosystem.
WTM Responsible Travel Awards cast a spotlight on exceptional efforts that embrace the delicate balance between exploration and preservation. As a tour operator based in the Azores, a region known for its unique natural beauty and biodiversity, participation in these awards reinforces our dedication to safeguarding the Azorean environment while offering travelers authentic and impactful experiences. The recognition garnered through these awards not only affirms our responsible approach to travel but also fuels our ongoing commitment to contribute to the sustainability and regenerative growth of the Azores' tourism sector.

We are proud to have been recognized as a finalist for the 2025 Arival Spotlight Awards in the Social Purpose / Community Engagement category.
Held during Arival 360 | Washington DC, one of the world’s leading events for tours, activities, and experiences, these awards celebrate innovation, excellence, and impact across the global travel industry.

Being selected by Arival’s independent panel of experts places Futurismo among the most inspiring and forward-thinking companies shaping the future of travel. This recognition highlights our ongoing commitment to sustainable development, meaningful community engagement, and creating transformative experiences that connect visitors with the essence of the Azores.

We are proud to share that The Carpenter of the Sea was selected as a Nominee in the July 2025 competition of the World Film Festival in Cannes, a renowned international platform that celebrates creativity and storytelling in cinema.

Being recognized among global filmmakers highlights the film’s universal message — one of heritage, craftsmanship, and sustainability — and shines an international spotlight on the Azores as a source of cultural richness and environmental stewardship.

This nomination is yet another milestone in the journey of The Carpenter of the Sea, reaffirming Futurismo Azores Adventures’ commitment to meaningful storytelling and the preservation of local traditions through film and tourism.

The ATTA Adventure In Motion World Short Film Competition holds a special place for pioneering Azorean tour operator Futurismo Azores Adventures. This esteemed competition serves as a dynamic platform to showcase our commitment to adventure travel and sustainable exploration. As a participant, this event not only provides a global stage for our innovative approach to adventure tourism in the Azores but also reinforces the region's reputation as an unparalleled adventure destination.
For a tour operator situated in the captivating Azores archipelago, renowned for its awe-inspiring landscapes and abundant natural wonders, the ATTA Adventure In Motion World Short Film Competition aligns seamlessly with our ethos. Through our film entries, we spotlight the raw beauty of the Azores, unveiling its potential for adventure seekers while promoting responsible travel practices. Winning or being featured in this competition substantiates our dedication to curating transformative adventures that harmonize with the environment, offering an experience that captivates travelers while nurturing the Azores' unique ecosystem.

Futurismo Azores Adventures emerges as a finalist in the 2023 Regenerative Travel Impact Awards, nominated for Regenerative Agency of the Year. Regenerative Travel, an American company, has led the charge since 2019, uniting the tourism industry in a journey towards a regenerative future. Initially connecting travelers with impactful hotels, it has evolved into a unifying association, fostering collaboration among hotels, travel agents, DMCs, and tour operators.
The awards spotlight pioneers steering tourism towards sustainability and regeneration. In a world increasingly affected by travel's ecological footprint, these honors acknowledge entities reshaping exploration for the greater good. For Futurismo, this nomination transcends recognition, aligning with their commitment to merging tourism with research and education, thereby preserving and celebrating Azorean culture and heritage.
Futurismo is the sole Portuguese nominee, joining 65 international contenders from diverse corners of the world. The esteemed jury includes notable figures like Bruce Poon Tip (Founder Of G Adventures) and Kelley Louise (Founder Of Impact Travel Alliance). More than just a bid for victory, the nomination stands as a testament to Futurismo's pursuit of impactful, environmentally conscious tourism, which enriches experiences, communities, and the environment. While vying for the People's Choice award, Futurismo underscores its dedication to transformative, responsible travel. Visit the website https://www.regenerativetravel.com/impact-awards-2023/ to participate in the global vote.

We are thrilled to announce that Futurismo Azores Adventures has been honored with the "Companies and Organisations" award at the Meaningful Tourism Awards 2023. The prestigious accolade, revealed during the QTM Qatar Travel Mart in Doha, recognizes our commitment to meaningful tourism practices.

Prof. Dr. Arlt, CEO of the Meaningful Tourism Center, expressed delight in witnessing global stakeholders shaping innovative tourism approaches. Futurismo Azores Adventures stands at the forefront of tomorrow's tourism development, aligning diverse stakeholders' interests to create a positive future for the industry.

According to the Prof. Dr. Arlt, "Futurismo Azores Adventures has proven its commitment to creating a new approach towards tourism: neither to see the customer as king, nor to concentrate on short-term profits as well as treating environmental issues not as the only concern will create a positive future for the industry. The task is not to ‘balance’ the different stakeholders’ interests, but aligning them in a way that benefits and satisfies the interests of all stakeholders".

Our documentary The Carpenter of the Sea has been distinguished with an Honorable Mention at the Bracciano Film Festival 2025, in Bracciano, Italy.

This international recognition celebrates the film’s artistic and cultural contribution to preserving Azorean maritime heritage and promoting sustainable tourism. Through the story of João Tavares, one of the last masters to build the traditional Azorean whaleboat, the film captures the profound connection between people, craft, and sea—a reflection of Futurismo Azores Adventures’ mission to honor local traditions while shaping a regenerative future for tourism in the Azores.

Futurismo Azores Adventures is honored to receive the “Sustainability in Tourism” Award at the ART&TUR International Tourism Film Festival 2025, in recognition of our ongoing commitment to responsible and regenerative tourism in the Azores.

This distinction is closely linked to our documentary The Carpenter of the Sea, a heartfelt tribute to Azorean maritime heritage and to João Tavares, one of the last traditional whaleboat builders. The film reflects our dedication to preserving local craftsmanship, cultural identity, and the stories that define the Azores, while promoting sustainable development and community well-being.

Receiving this award at ART&TUR—one of the world’s leading festivals celebrating creativity and innovation in tourism—reinforces our belief that storytelling is a powerful way to inspire conscious travel and safeguard the Azores’ natural and cultural legacy.

The ART&TUR International Tourism Film Festival holds profound significance for Futurismo Azores Adventures, an Azorean tour operator. This prestigious festival provides a compelling platform to showcase our dedication to innovative and transformative travel experiences. As a participant in the ART&TUR Festival, we not only spotlight the unparalleled beauty and allure of the Azores but also reinforce our commitment to responsible and sustainable tourism practices.
For a tour operator rooted in the Azores, a region renowned for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage, the ART&TUR Festival serves as a window to our ethos of offering unique and authentic travel encounters. By participating and winning the "Best Movie Award: Touristic Products" in this renowned festival, we highlight the Azores' potential as a premier destination for travelers seeking meaningful experiences while underscoring our commitment to preserving the local environment and fostering community well-being. The ART&TUR Festival not only celebrates our dedication to creative and impactful travel offerings but also amplifies the Azores' appeal on a global stage, aligning with our mission to contribute to the region's sustainable and thriving tourism industry.

The victory in the "Environment & Ecology" category underscores Futurismo's unwavering commitment to responsible and sustainable tourism, showcasing the Azores as an attractive destination for travelers who value unique and ecologically conscious adventures. The competing film, based on the true story narrated in the first person by the tourist couple Varlei Bastos and Marisa Nabeiro, aimed to authentically and sincerely convey a deep appreciation, a profound connection with the animals, and the overwhelming sense of privilege in being able to witness the extraordinary moments highlighted in the piece.

This recognition holds immense significance for the company, given the challenging and competitive nature of the travel industry. It serves as a testament to the exceptional dedication and commitment of Futurismo to offering unique and culturally rich exploration experiences to travelers in a region that might not always be in the international spotlight.

In an industry that is currently experiencing remarkable growth and evolving to cater to changing consumer preferences, this award highlights Futurismo's ability to stand out and excel. As the travel and tourism sector continues to flourish, the award not only showcases the company's outstanding contributions but also brings global attention to the Azores as a destination that offers unparalleled cultural and wilderness exploration experiences. Futurismo's recognition by LUX Life Magazine serves as an inspiration to other small operators and reinforces the notion that with passion, innovation, and unwavering dedication, even remote destinations can leave a lasting mark on the international travel map. This award is not just a symbol of prestige but also a testament to the future potential of the Azores in the global tourism landscape.

The PME Excelência Award stands as a significant milestone in the journey of Futurismo Azores Adventures, an Azorean tour operator. This esteemed recognition holds a mirror to our unwavering commitment to excellence and sustainable growth. As a recipient of the PME Excelência Award, we proudly highlight our role in fostering economic advancement, job creation, and outstanding performance within the Azores region.
For a tour operator rooted in the Azores, a region where economic vitality and community well-being are intertwined, the PME Excelência Award amplifies our profile as a standout contributor to the local business landscape. These awards not only validate our dedication to quality service and innovation but also spotlight our responsible and ethical approach to tourism. The PME Excelência Award underscores our ongoing efforts to uphold excellence and drive sustainable development within the Azores' tourism industry, ultimately benefiting both the local community and the region as a whole.

The PME Lider awards hold a significant place in the journey of Futurismo Azores Adventures, an Azorean tour operator. These accolades resonate deeply as they recognize our role in contributing to the economic growth and development of the Azores region. As a recipient of the PME Lider awards, our position as a key player in the local business landscape is affirmed, underscoring our dedication to excellence, innovation, and sustainable practices.
For a tour operator rooted in the Azores, a region where community engagement and economic vitality are intertwined, the PME Lider awards elevate our profile as a thriving enterprise with a positive impact on the local economy. These distinctions validate our commitment to quality service, job creation, and responsible tourism. By being recognized as a PME Lider, we not only affirm our dedication to the growth of the Azorean tourism sector but also contribute to the region's overall prosperity and resilience.

The Prémio Mercúrio - O Melhor do Comércio e Serviços award holds significant recognition for Futurismo Azores Adventures, an Azorean tour operator. This prestigious accolade reflects our commitment to excellence and exceptional service in the realm of commerce and services. As a recipient of the Prémio Mercúrio, we proudly showcase our contribution to elevating the Azores' reputation as a premier travel destination while adhering to high standards of quality and innovation.
For a tour operator deeply rooted in the Azores, a region where the tourism industry plays a pivotal role in both economic prosperity and community engagement, the Prémio Mercúrio award reinforces our position as a prominent player in the local business scene. These honors not only validate our dedication to delivering exceptional experiences but also shine a spotlight on our responsible and sustainable approach to tourism. The Prémio Mercúrio award not only signifies our commitment to elevating the Azorean tourism sector but also amplifies our contributions to the region's overall growth, showcasing the potential of responsible and impactful tourism practices.