Whale Watching & Jeep Tour to Sete Cidades (full-day)

After a tremendous marine adventure that will take you close to the species in their own habitats, we will drive you to the perfect gem of the Azorean craters: a jeep tour to the enchanted, twin lakes in Sete Cidades, where a legendary love story created splendour in nature.

The entire volcanic complex is a maze of lakes that we will explore, and the mirror of its waters reflects the leafy vegetation in unbelievable shades…

For a breathtaking picture, we will climb to Pico do Carvão, Pico da Cruz, and the “Vista do Rei” from where King Carlos of Portugal felt a true sovereign.

Difficulty

Languages

Transport Type

BOAT

JEEP

Tour Starts

Ponta Delgada

Minimum Age

6 on Zodiacs

Season

Available in all season

Transport Type

BOAT

JEEP

Tour Starts

Ponta Delgada

Languages

Minimum Age

6 on Zodiacs

Season

Available in all season

Trip Overview

Early in the morning, a briefing will explain to you how whale watching transformed a fight for survival into a dance of cooperation and knowledge.

The entire volcanic complex is a maze of lakes that we will explore, and the mirror of its waters reflects the leafy vegetation in unbelievable shades…

For a breathtaking picture, we will climb to Pico do Carvão, Pico da Cruz, and the “Vista do Rei” from where King Carlos of Portugal felt a true sovereign.

Atlantic Giants & the Wonders of Sete Cidades

Price

110€

Duration

Full day

High Quality Service

Clean & Safe Certified Company

Exceptional & Educational Nature Experience

Free Cancellations

Gallery

Javi Garcia | Visiting Sete Cidades on a guided Jeep tour

Bruno Ázera | Sunset photo from Vista do Rei

Itinerary

Harbor of Ponta Delgada +

This great adventure starts at the Marina of Ponta Delgada, in our shop. Our staff will welcome you for the check-in.

Setting sails +

After the check-in, you will be directed to the boat where our marine biologists will give a briefing. They will tell you about the species that you might see, whale watching history in the Azores as well as how we respect the animals.
Then, we are ready to navigate and look for cetaceans in the wild. On the way, have a look at the coast of our beautiful island, full of magical landscapes.

The deep atlantic +

That is where you will encounter the biggest animals. Whales are living in the deep ocean. Some of them simply pass by our waters during their migration.
Prepare for awe-inspiring moments where time suddenly freezes and natural magic happens right in front of your eyes.

Back to shore +

On the way back to the harbor, take your time to contemplate the amazing landscapes. Try to spot some of the most beautiful sights on the island.
Enjoy the peaceful and positive energies this magical island has to offer.

Lunch at a local restaurant +

Experience some of the most delicious traditional dishes the Azores has to offer. We will have lunch at one of the local restaurants on the island.

Pico do Carvão +

Pico do Carvão Viewpoint, at 825 m of altitude, gives a good panorama over São Miguel island. From there, enjoy lovely views of the coasts, lakes surrounded by lush vegetation and the mountains.

Pico da Cruz +

From this fantastic viewpoint, you will feel small in front of the huge Sete Cidades volcanic complex. If the weather conditions are good, you will be able to contemplate Lagoa de Santiago and Lagoa Rasa.

The picturesque Sete Cidades village +

Inside the massive volcanic crater lays the calm, picturesque village of Sete Cidades. It is common to see farmers using horses as transportation, just like in the “good old days”. Between farmland, forest and grasslands, explore every angle from inside the Volcano.
Also, located at the end of a path flanked by pine trees take the chance to visit the beautiful church São Nicolau.

Vista do Rei belvedere +

Vista do Rei (“the King’s viewpoint”) is one of the most emblematic and best-known landscapes of São Miguel.
The splendid panoramic view over one of the 7 Natural Wonders of Portugal is absolutely magical. Indeed, it is a must-see while on holiday in the Azores.
Its name comes from the visit of King Dom Carlos I and Queen Dona Amelia in 1901. They contemplated Sete Cidades from this very same spot.

Select your departure

110.3€ per adult + 6.6€ Online Fee

Why Futurismo

Operating since 1990

With almost 35 years of existence, we are one of the most experienced companies in the whole Azores Islands.

Pioneers and Leaders

We have pioneered nature-based adventure travel in the Azores, striving to keep helping the Azores take the right path in tourism.

Proudly Azorean Local Experts

Our team is made up of people who live, breathe, eat, and sleep in the Azores. This is our home and we are eager to share it with the world.

MORE ABOUT US

110.3€ per adult + 6.6€ Online Fee

Premier Whale Watching Operator

Experienced. Passionate. Respectful.

WCA Certified

Our ethical tourism practices recognized worldwide

Cetacean Sighting Guaranteed

98% chance of spotting whales or dolphins. Didn’t see any? Join another tour for free

21.000+ Sighting Records

30 yrs of scientific research. Collabs with 20+ universities

Top-notch Vessels

Best and biggest Whale Watching fleet in the Azores

KNOW MORE

100% stays in the local community

20% to local small companies

Full time, year round, employed guides

What people think about

4.8

392 reviews

Francisco Ferreira 22/10/2026

(Translated by Google) A well-organized catamaran trip, with interesting explanations from the crew… Read more

Uwe WK 15/10/2026

(Translated by Google) Zodiac Tour - an impressive experience! 👍 The whole team is dedicated to… Read more

Margaret Liversage 24/09/2026

Maria was a great tour guide! Very knowledgeable and answered our questions about the landscape… Read more

Marina Galañena 20/09/2026

(Translated by Google) An absolutely magical and unforgettable experience! We were lucky enough to… (Translated by Google) An absolutely magical and unforgettable experience! We were lucky enough to go on a catamaran trip to see dolphins around São Miguel, and we loved it. Seeing these magnificent animals in their natural environment was truly exceptional. The crew was very friendly, professional, and attentive, providing plenty of information throughout the excursion. We particularly appreciated their respectful approach to the animals and the fact that the experience was primarily about discovering marine wildlife. The catamaran was very comfortable, and we were also able to fully enjoy the scenery and the beauty of the ocean. We were accompanied by our 6-month-old baby, and everything went very smoothly. The crew was attentive, and we felt comfortable throughout the entire trip. We 100% recommend this activity if you're visiting São Miguel! A wonderful way to discover the island from a different perspective and leave with incredible memories. (Original) Une expérience absolument magique et inoubliable ! Nous avons eu la chance de partir en catamaran à la découverte des dauphins autour de São Miguel et nous avons adoré cette sortie. Voir ces magnifiques animaux évoluer dans leur environnement naturel était un moment vraiment exceptionnel. L’équipage était très sympathique, professionnel et à l’écoute, avec de nombreuses explications tout au long de l’excursion. Nous avons particulièrement apprécié l’approche respectueuse des animaux et le fait que l’expérience reste avant tout une découverte de la faune marine. Le catamaran était très agréable et nous avons également pu profiter pleinement des paysages et de la beauté de l’océan. Nous étions accompagnés de notre bébé de 6 mois et tout s’est très bien passé. L’équipage a été attentionné et nous nous sommes sentis à l’aise pendant toute la sortie. Une activité que nous recommandons à 100 % si vous êtes de passage à São Miguel ! Une très belle façon de découvrir l’île autrement et de repartir avec des souvenirs incroyables. Read more

J. K. 18/09/2026

(Translated by Google) We were absolutely thrilled with Futurismo! We booked two tours in total –… Read more

Christian 14/09/2026

We had an absolutely breathtaking excursion today. We went out on a Zodiac boat with two crew… Read more

Claudon Déborah 05/09/2026

(Translated by Google) Amazing experience! We even got an extra hour on the Zodiac, what more could… Read more

Heiko Kain 02/09/2026

Thank you all for two great experiences. My wife and me did the whale/dolphin watching and the Jeep… Read more

Berta Caballero 01/09/2026

An unique experience with and out standing company! Respect for animals the priority. The best of… Read more

User User 25/08/2026

(Translated by Google) An exhilarating experience filled with common, spotted, and bottlenose… Read more

Jan & Vanessa 23/08/2026

(Translated by Google) A truly fantastic dolphin and whale watching tour from Ponta Delgada! We… Read more

jose Ortega 15/08/2026

(Translated by Google) Absolutely fantastic experience with Futurismo Azores! We did the whale and… (Translated by Google) Absolutely fantastic experience with Futurismo Azores! We did the whale and dolphin watching activity in a zodiac boat and it was, without a doubt, one of the most special moments of our trip to São Miguel. The whole team was extremely professional, friendly and attentive. Before leaving, they explained very well how the activity would be, the sea conditions and everything we needed to know. During the tour we always felt very safe and, at the same time, it was an exciting and very fun experience. We were lucky enough to observe dolphins and whales in their natural habitat, always with great respect for the animals and maintaining adequate distances. The team demonstrated enormous knowledge about marine life and made the experience even more interesting. Doing the activity in a zodiac boat made everything even more special, due to the proximity to the sea and the feeling of adventure. It was an incredible experience for the whole family and a memory that we will carry with us forever. We recommend Futurismo Azores 100%. Professionalism, friendliness, safety and an unforgettable experience. Thank you very much to the whole team! (Original) Experiência absolutamente fantástica com a Futurismo Azores! Fizemos a atividade de observação de baleias e golfinhos em zodiac e foi, sem dúvida, um dos momentos mais especiais da nossa viagem a São Miguel. Toda a equipa foi extremamente profissional, simpática e atenciosa. Antes de sair, explicaram-nos muito bem como seria a atividade, as condições do mar e tudo o que precisávamos de saber. Durante o passeio sentimos sempre muita segurança e, ao mesmo tempo, foi uma experiência emocionante e muito divertida. Tivemos a sorte de observar golfinhos e baleias no seu habitat natural, sempre com muito respeito pelos animais e mantendo as distâncias adequadas. A equipa demonstrou um enorme conhecimento sobre a vida marinha e tornou a experiência ainda mais interessante. Fazer a atividade em zodiac tornou tudo ainda mais especial, pela proximidade com o mar e pela sensação de aventura. Foi uma experiência incrível para toda a família e uma recordação que vamos levar connosco para sempre. Recomendamos a Futurismo Azores a 100%. Profissionalismo, simpatia, segurança e uma experiência inesquecível. Muito obrigado a toda a equipa! Read more

Yossi Kolesnicov 15/08/2026

We saw two different kinds of dolphins, in large groups, which was amazing. No whales today, but… Read more

Jos Ser 10/08/2026

(Translated by Google) A fantastic whale and dolphin watching experience in the northern part of… Read more

Julie Regis 09/08/2026

(Translated by Google) ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ A magnificent whale watching experience in São Miguel We were lucky… (Translated by Google) ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ A magnificent whale watching experience in São Miguel We were lucky enough to go on a catamaran whale watching excursion with Futurismo around São Miguel, and we absolutely loved it. From the very beginning, the organization was perfect: everything was very well managed, the explanations were clear, and the team was truly lovely, available, and attentive throughout the excursion. A special mention goes to their consideration for those prone to seasickness: the team was very present, reassuring, and did everything necessary to ensure everyone could fully enjoy the trip. The guides also provided us with a wealth of information throughout the excursion, both about the different species we encountered and about their behavior and environment. You can tell they are passionate and, above all, very respectful of the animals. The observation is done with respect for the cetaceans, without trying to disturb them or chase them at all costs, which is a real plus for us. And how lucky we were! 🐬 We were able to observe several species of dolphins as well as a sperm whale. Absolutely magical moments, especially when you realize you're observing these animals in their natural habitat. The excursion was supposed to last a certain amount of time, but we ended up spending about an extra hour at sea. The team really went above and beyond to allow us to observe as many species as possible and to fully enjoy this experience. It's quite rare to feel so much dedication and desire to please the participants. An excursion I wholeheartedly recommend if you're in São Miguel. Between the beautiful scenery, the encounters with the cetaceans, the guides' explanations, and the professionalism of the entire team, it's an experience we'll cherish for a long time. 🐋💙 (Original) ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Une magnifique expérience d’observation des cétacés à São Miguel Nous avons eu la chance de partir avec Futurismo pour une excursion en catamaran à la découverte des cétacés autour de São Miguel, et nous avons vraiment adoré cette expérience. Dès le départ, l’organisation était parfaite : tout est très bien encadré, les explications sont claires et l’équipe est vraiment adorable, disponible et aux petits soins tout au long de l’excursion. Une mention particulière pour leur attention envers les personnes qui peuvent être malades en mer : l’équipe est très présente, rassurante et fait vraiment le nécessaire pour que chacun puisse profiter au mieux de la sortie. Les guides nous ont également donné énormément d’informations pendant toute l’excursion, aussi bien sur les différentes espèces rencontrées que sur leur comportement et leur environnement. On sent qu’ils sont passionnés et surtout très respectueux des animaux. L’observation se fait dans le respect des cétacés, sans chercher à les déranger ou à les poursuivre à tout prix, ce qui est pour nous un vrai point positif. Et quelle chance nous avons eue ! 🐬 Nous avons pu observer plusieurs espèces de dauphins ainsi qu’un cachalot. Des moments absolument magiques, surtout lorsqu’on réalise que l’on observe ces animaux dans leur milieu naturel. L’excursion devait durer un certain temps, mais nous avons finalement passé environ une heure supplémentaire en mer. L’équipe a vraiment fait son maximum pour nous permettre d’observer le plus d’espèces possible et de profiter pleinement de cette expérience. C’est assez rare de sentir autant d’implication et d’envie de faire plaisir aux participants. Une excursion que je recommande sans hésiter si vous êtes à São Miguel. Entre la beauté des paysages, les rencontres avec les cétacés, les explications des guides et le professionnalisme de toute l’équipe, c’est une expérience que nous garderons longtemps en mémoire. 🐋💙 Read more

Edurne Ciriaco Indacoechea 27/07/2026

(Translated by Google) Definitely an experience you can't miss in Sao Miguel. Futurismo was a great… Read more

Hana Urbancová 26/07/2026

(Translated by Google) Thank you for the wonderful trip to see whales and dolphins. It was great,… Read more

Susan Agostini 19/07/2026

(Translated by Google) I took two excursions with the Futurismo agency on the island of Sao Miguel.… Read more

Sarah Els 17/07/2026

Excellent experience! Futurismo tour was very well organized, and the crew was friendly,… Read more

Arjen 17/07/2026

We’d booked a jeep tour. Our tour guide was a brilliant storyteller and knew an incredible amount… Read more

What people think about

more than 15.000 reviews

The whale watch was beyond our expectations. The boat was fast and stable, the crew helpful, friendly, and professional. We saw over a dozen sperm whales, a pair of fin whales, and a blue whale.

We also did a really excellent walking tour in Ponta Delgada and two excellent jeep tours. All wer excellent and were well worth the time and the price. Futurismo delivered 110%.

Richard, USA

Essencial Trip Information

What's Included

Pre-tour briefing
Raincoat and pants (if necessary)
Life jacket (on zodiac & fiberglass boats)
Marine biologist guides
Lunch in a local restaurant
Guide for the Jeep Tour
Insurance (personal accident and liability)
Drop off in Ponta Delgada city center (please check the map)

Why this Tour

Whale and dolphin watching is not to be missed in the Azores, simply because we have great biodiversity inside the waters around São Miguel island. Plus, with Futurismo, you are sure to do it in a sustainable way, as we are recognized by the largest organization for the protection of cetaceans, as a Responsible tour operator!

Why not combine sea and land to discover more about São Miguel? This tour is perfect to explore one of the most beautiful places in all of Portugal: Sete Cidades. It was elected as one of the seven natural wonders of the country. So, jump on our jeep and let our guide lead you to hidden gems.

Departure and Return

Departure Point

Portas do Mar, Shop 26, 9500-771 Ponta Delgada.
There are two paid parking facilities, both accessed via the same entrance ramp.

Departure Time

Please select a date on the calendar and arrive at the meeting point at the scheduled time for check-in and a short safety briefing.

Return Point

Returns to the original departure point or the drop of point you indicate during the checkout process.

How long does the Whale Watching Tour last? +

This is a half-day tour.

The estimated duration is approximately 3 hours, including check-in and a mandatory safety briefing, with departure taking place immediately after these procedures.

In some cases, the tour may last slightly longer if we need to travel farther offshore to improve sighting opportunities, whether to encounter more species or particularly special ones. The experience always takes priority.

What does the tour start time refer to? +

The tour start time refers to check-in time, not the moment of departure.

Guests should arrive at the meeting point at the scheduled time. After check-in and a brief safety briefing, departure will take place within 30 minutes of the check-in time, depending on group readiness and sea conditions.

Are the Azores a good whale-watching destination? +

The Azores are a great whale-watching destination, probably one of the best in the whole world. We have sperm whales all year round. Being in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, lots of cetacean species pass by our islands during their annual migration.

What if the weather isn’t ok? +

If the weather doesn’t allow doing this activity safely, we will cancel it and suggest an alternative date.

Can I use my drone during this tour? +

You cannot use a drone on our tours with other travelers.

Do you sell medication for seasickness? +

No, we do not sell anything on the boat. If you know that you get easily seasick, it is better to purchase adequate medication before the tour.

Cancellation +

Cancellations up to 48 hours before the tour, no penalties are applied.
Cancellations up to 24 hours: 50% of the total amount will be charged.
Cancellations less than 24 hours or no-show: full amount will be charged.
If the weather conditions do not allow the activity to be done safely, we will cancel it and contact you to suggest an alternative date or provide a full refund.

Booking confirmation +

You will receive a confirmation email within 24 hours of successful booking.

What to bring? +

Comfortable shoes and light clothes.
Sweater, raincoat.
Sunscreen, hat and backpack.
Water and snacks (we do not sell food aboard).

Advisory +

Babies: 0–5 years old – free of charge | Children: 6–12 years old, 50% discount.
Catamaran is recommended for people with back problems, pregnant women, children and seniors.
Lunch: starter, main dish, dessert, drink, coffee/tea.
Vegetarians: vegetarian meals on request within a maximum of 48 hours before the tour.
If you have any food restrictions, please inform us at least 48h before the tour.