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NEW! AZORES WHALE SEARCH
5 DAYS HOTELS WHALE & DOLPHIN SEARCHING; DISCOVER FAIAL & PICO ISLANDS Bathed in the warm air and temperate currents of the Gulf Stream, the beautiful archipelago of the Azores rest in the heart of the Atlantic Ocean. Since the exploration of the world's oceans began, these islands have played a crucial role in many early expeditions and later became a key position in the trade routes between Europe and the rest of the world. Brimming with history, the Azores boast some stunning scenery and are home to a healthy population of whales and dolphins. Faial and Pico Arriving into Horta on the island of Faial, there should be time to wander the historic streets and perhaps climb the low volcanic crater that splits this once bustling seaport in two, affording splendid views over the sweeping bays. The following day we take the ferry across to the island of Pico, renowned for its steep-sided, dormant volcano and at 2,351m, Portugal's highest mountain. Home to the very first whalewatching tours, Pico is our base for the next few days from where we will venture out to search for the cetaceans that gather here every year. Whales and Dolphins During our stay we include two trips out to search for whales and dolphins where the most regular sightings are of sperm whales, short-finned pilot whales and several different species of dolphin. Taking care not to disturb these fascinating creatures, we keep a respectful distance but it is not unusual that a whale comes closer to offer an inquisitive gaze, before taking a deep breath and plunging back into the deep once more. There is also free time to explore the remarkable islands of Pico and Faial further or take more whale-watching trips, depending on your interests.
DATES AND PRICES 5 DAYS FROM LONDON
Ref AAZ
FACTFILE
Itinerary Day 1 Fly London/Horta (Faial Island). 2 Ferry to Madalena (Pico Island), half-day whale-watching voyage. 3 Half-day whale-watching voyage; optional island tour of Pico. 4 Free day for more whale watching or an island tour of Faial including the Caldeira. 5 Ferry to Horta. Fly London. Accommodation & Meals: 4nts hotel; 4 breakfasts included. See p42. Mode of Travel: Small coach/boats/ferry. Comment: Discover the verdant beauty of the Azores and experience the thrill of a close encounter with whales & dolphins. Mother nature as it is, we are unable to guarantee whale or dolphin sightings however, weather permitting, the chances are high. Tour Staff & Support: Explore Tour Leader, local naturalist guides, boatmen plus driver(s). Group Size: Approx. 9 to 12.
REF: AAZ 799
2008 start Wed end Sun Price in £ 28 May-01 Jun 725 30 Jul-03 Aug 04 Jun-08 Jun 11 Jun-15 Jun
749 06 Aug-10 Aug 799 749 13 Aug-17 Aug 799
Single Room Option: £75*. See p41 for details. Insurance: £29 These are guide prices, see p45 for details.
Land Only Prices also available
AZORES
Azores Whale Search Ref AAZ
Caldeira 1043m
FAIAL
Optional visit to the Caldeira Nature Reserve
AZORES
(PORTUGAL)
MADALENA
Airport HORTA
Optional island tour Pico Alta 2345m
PICO
ATLANTIC OCEAN
km 0 25
Lajes
Whale watching
25
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