São Miguel: Swim with Wild Dolphins in the Open Ocean

Swimming with dolphins in their natural habitat has long been a bucket-list dream, and the Azores’ São Miguel island offers one of the best chances to make it come true. This tour, provided by Picos de Aventura, is a well-organized, small-group adventure lasting around 2.5 hours. It combines a scenic boat ride with the chance to see and swim alongside wild dolphins, surrounded by the rugged beauty of the Atlantic.

What makes this experience stand out is the combination of expert guides, respectful wildlife practices, and the chance to get up close with these intelligent marine mammals in their natural environment. We love how the tour balances thrill and education, giving you insights into dolphin behavior while prioritizing their wellbeing.

That said, it’s not for everyone—participants need a basic level of fitness, be comfortable in open water, and be prepared for swift boat rides and quick water entries. This tour suits those who love adventure, nature, and are eager for an authentic encounter with marine life, especially if you’re comfortable swimming in the ocean.

Key Points

• Authentic Wild Encounters: Swim with dolphins in their natural habitat, not in a captive setting.
• Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable guides, including marine biologists, ensure respectful and safe interactions.
• Impressive Scenery: The São Miguel coast provides a stunning backdrop for this marine adventure.
• Small Group: Limited to only 8 participants, ensuring personalized attention and fewer crowds.
• Flexible Booking: Reserve now, pay later, with full cancellation options up to 24 hours in advance.
• Family Friendly: Not suitable for children under 12, but perfect for those seeking a mature, nature-focused experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point: Marina Pêro de Teive

The adventure begins at the Marina Pêro de Teive, a convenient hub in Ponta Delgada, where you’ll meet your guides. This location is central, making it easy for visitors to access, and sets a relaxed tone for what’s to come. From here, you’ll board a fast boat that promises a lively ride across the Atlantic, so be prepared for some splashes and a few bumps—this is an open-sea adventure after all.

Safety Briefing and Preparation

Once on board, your guides—who speak Portuguese, English, and Spanish—will provide a quick safety overview. They emphasize respect for marine life and explain the protocols for swimming with wild dolphins. The briefing, about 10 minutes long, helps you understand what to expect and how to behave around these free-ranging animals. It’s clear that safety and conservation are top priorities, which is reassuring.

The Scenic Boat Ride + Dolphin Watching

For roughly two hours, you’ll cruise along the São Miguel coast, soaking in the dramatic cliffs, lush landscapes, and the Atlantic’s vastness. This part of the tour isn’t just transport—it’s a chance to spot other marine life, such as flying fish or even a marlin, as some reviewers have observed. Several guests have recounted seeing a hammerhead shark swim close to their boat, making the experience all the more exhilarating.

Guides do an excellent job at locating dolphin pods, often using expert spotting skills. Multiple reviewers have praised their ability to find dolphins quickly, even after initial unsuccessful attempts, thanks to their local knowledge and keen eyes. The guides are not only professional but also passionate, ensuring everyone stays engaged and informed.

The Heart of the Tour: Swimming with Dolphins

This is where the trip truly shines. Once dolphins are spotted, the guides coordinate the water activities. They’re quick to get everyone suited up with wetsuits, snorkels, and windbreakers—equipment that many reviewers found well-fitting and comfortable.

Guests describe the experience as magical and exhilarating. Some have recounted seeing pods with babies, and a few lucky ones have watched dolphins perform leaps and play right beneath them. Quotes like “the dolphins swam right beneath us” and “we swam with them three times” perfectly capture the awe of this close encounter.

The guides are respectful of the animals’ space—some reviewers pointed out that no aggressive chasing or feeding occurs—and they emphasize observing quietly and respectfully. Because the dolphins are wild, they may or may not come close, but the thrill is in the unpredictability.

What You Might See

Past guests have spotted different species of dolphins, including Bottlenose and Common dolphins. Some have also enjoyed the surprise of seeing other wildlife, such as sea turtles or flying fish. One traveler mentioned a “hammerhead shark” swimming up to the boat—a reminder that these waters are full of surprises.

While some reviewers experienced no dolphins during their first attempt, they appreciated the option to rebook for another round, which many found valuable. The flexibility of the booking is a real plus, especially if wildlife is shy or the weather conditions vary.

Return Journey and Reflection

After about two hours of marine adventure, you’ll head back to the marina. Many guests felt the trip was over far too quickly, describing it as a once-in-a-lifetime experience that left them in awe. The combination of a bumpy but exciting boat ride and the chance to witness such natural beauty makes for a memorable outing.

Practical Details and Considerations

Duration and Pick-Up Points

The total activity lasts approximately 2.5 hours, with the start times varying—so it’s best to check availability when booking. The tour begins at Marina Pêro de Teive, with a brief stop in Ponta Delgada for safety instructions and a guided dolphin watching segment, then wraps up back at the marina.

Group Size and Personal Attention

Limited to 8 participants, this tour offers a more intimate experience than larger boat trips. This smaller group size means guides can focus more on each guest’s safety and enjoyment. Several reviews mention guides like Katherina and Natalia, who made the experience special through their knowledge and friendly approach.

What to Bring

Preparation is key for comfort and safety. Pack a windbreaker, sun hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, water, water shoes, hair tie, and waterproof bag. Considering the open-water environment, being dressed comfortably and prepared for the elements makes a notable difference.

Price and Value

Pricing is around 150 euros per person, which might seem steep at first glance. However, considering the small group size, expert guides—including a marine biologist in some cases—and the genuine wild encounter, many find it to be good value for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The chance to swim with wild dolphins, not just watch them from afar, adds a special layer of value.

Suitability and Restrictions

This trip isn’t suited for children under 12, mainly because of the physical requirements—swimming in open water and enduring boat rides. Basic swimming ability and comfort in the sea are essential. Also, guests must declare any pre-existing medical conditions, which the guides will consider for safety reasons.

Authentic Experiences from Reviewers

Guest feedback offers a vivid picture of what to expect. For example, one traveler described the guides as “fantastic, really good at explaining the process”, which reassures first-timers. Others mentioned how dolphins swam right beneath them, creating unforgettable moments. A marine biologist on board helped deepen understanding, and guides went as far as collecting rubbish from the sea, showing their commitment to conservation.

Many guests expressed that the experience exceeded expectations: “Far exceeded my expectations” and “one of the best experiences of my life” were common sentiments. The thrill of seeing a pod of dolphins with their babies or watching dolphins perform jumps repeatedly made it clear why this tour is so highly rated.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This wild dolphin swim is perfect for travelers who want an authentic, respectful engagement with nature. It’s best suited for those who are comfortable swimming in open water and seeking a combination of adventure, education, and stunning scenery. If you’re after a highly personalized experience with knowledgeable guides and a chance to see dolphins in their natural environment, this tour will deliver.

It offers a meaningful connection to marine life, and the small group size ensures personal attention. While the price may seem high, the quality of the experience, safety, and professionalism of guides make it worthwhile for most travelers.

If your ideal trip involves excitement, learning about wildlife, and appreciating the raw beauty of the Atlantic, then this is one adventure you shouldn’t miss during your time on São Miguel.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Not for children under 12 years old, mainly due to the physical demands of swimming in open water and quick water entries.

What should I bring?
Bring a windbreaker, sun hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, water, water shoes, hair tie, and waterproof bag. Being prepared helps make the experience comfortable.

How long does the tour last?
The entire activity takes about 2.5 hours, including safety briefing, boat ride, dolphin watching, and swimming.

Can I cancel and get a refund?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

What species of dolphins might I see?
Guests often see Bottlenose and Common dolphins, and sometimes other wildlife like flying fish or sea turtles.

Is the experience safe?
Yes, guides prioritize safety and animal wellbeing, providing thorough briefings and using respectful observation practices.

This tour offers a compelling mix of adventure, education, and stunning natural scenery, making it an excellent choice for those eager to connect with wildlife in a responsible way. Whether you’re an avid swimmer or just looking for an unforgettable encounter, this experience on São Miguel promises memories that will linger long after you leave the Atlantic behind.