Everyone has heard of the famous "Whale Song", but that is generally associated with the humpback whales, a species we are unlikely to encounter. The sperm whale is the main species we will see and it emits a loud regular clicking noise whilst underwater. We use special acoustic equipment for listening to this clicking, enabling us to track the whales, and be within a few hundred meters of them when they surface. The final stage is the familiar "tar she blows!", from an observant lookout. This technique was refined by scientists with the IFAW team during their research in the Azores, and the main component of the system is an underwater microphone (called a hydrophone) which is towed behind the boat. The system is similar to that used by naval ships to find enemy submarines and it has proved to be highly successful, with half of the whale sightings being found within four hours of leaving port! Over 98% of all encounters are within sight of land. Another important aspect of our system is that no sound waves are sent out by the equipment, it merely listens, so there is no intrusion by us into the whales' environment.
Mark Twain visited the Azores in 1867 during a voyage to Europe and the holy land, and described the local people as...... all ragged and barefoot, uncombed and unclean.... with brass rings in their ears and fraud in their hearts. " Fortunately things have changed a lot since then!
Comprising nine distinct islands, the Azorean archipelago has been Portuguese territory since the first inhabitants lived there in the 15th century. Legend says the islands are the tips of the lost continent of Atlantis, but the lush green craters and stunning craggy scenery point to volcanic, rather than mythical origins.
The islands lie around 950 miles west of Lisbon, the Portuguese capital, and are a haven of tranquillity and calm. Mass tourism has all but passed by these enchanting islands, with their quiet country lanes, friendly local people and impressive views. They are lucky to have a very mild maritime Mediterranean type climate with July and August being the warmest months, although it never gets unbearably hot or cold.
Our trips are based at the modern marina in Horta, on the island of Faial, in the central group of the islands. It is often called the "Blue Island" because of the abundance of hydrangeas growing there. Evidence of its popularity as a stop off point for transatlantic yachtsmen can he seen from the harbour wall paintings left by each boat. A trip inland will not be wasted if you head up to the caldera. On a clear day, the rim of this extinct volcanic crater 1043m (3421ft) above sea level, offers remarkable views of the other 4 islands of the central group.
During your tour we also aim to visit one or sometimes two of the other islands in the central group, our options include:
The obvious attraction of this island is the impressive volcanic cone of Pico Alto 2351m (7713ft). This mountain is the higher than any other place in the Azores or on the Portuguese mainland, and dominates the island and all others around it. A stately green pyramid of truly majestic proportions, it is one of the most beautiful in the world.
A visit to the island of Pico is not complete without a visit to the village of Lages do Pico. This village was the centre of whaling culture in the Azores and one of the last places to give it up. The whaling museum is well worth a visit as is the old whaling factory at Cais do Pico, that has now been converted into a museum. Both record the rich Azorean whaling culture and traditions.
During a drive round the island you are able to see the small volcanic rock enclosures built by the farmers, to provide protection for the growing vines which produce the local "Verdelo" wine. You may also see the "Mysterios" or "Mysteries"; dark lava landscapes created by eruptions and sometimes covered in dense woods.
Common dolphin are probably the most playful of the dolphins we see in the Azores. They regularly race over toward us in order to bowride in front of the boat. In the clear water you can watch their graceful movements as they glide effortlessly along in front of you. They are most abundant in the early and late parts of the season.
Known as the "Lilac Isle", Terceira is the second largest of the central group and has an abundance of steep cliffs around its coastline. A must when on Terceira is a visit to its capital Angra do Heroismo, contender for the most beautiful town in the archipelago. Here you can see 16th century constructions such as the impressive hill side fortification of Castelo de Sao Joao and the town cathedral with glazed tile covering and solid silver altar. Or you can just stroll among the many beautiful buildings with their wrought iron balconies. Angra do Heroismo has been designed a UNESCO world heritage list.
Known as the "White Island", with its traditional white washed houses and old Flemish-type windmills, this idyllic island is a favorite with visitors to the Azores. Graciosa is the second smallest of the group and vineyards play a major part in the island's economy. Don't miss the Furna do Enxofre, an underground lake of warm, slightly sulphurous water, reached by a 270ft spiral staircase. There are also hot springs and a bathhouse at Carapacho.
This long narrow island with soaring cliffs is a marvellous place for walkers. Almost all of its population live on small coastal plains (fajas), some only reached by narrow footpaths. A mountain ridge consisting of several peaks runs along 80% of the island, affording glorious views across Cedar and Cyprus wooded slopes.
Sao Jorge is well known for its full flavored cheese and wine is also produced here.
Risso's dolphin (Grampus griseus) are unmistakable. As a individual ages, its body becomes crisscrossed with white scars, probably from encounters with other Risso's dolphin. These scars can often be used to identify individuals. They are usually seen in small groups, swimming slowly along the surface.
Loggerhead turtles (Caretta caretta) hatch on the beaches of Florida and they can be found swimming in the waters off the Azores. By tagging them we are hoping to aid researchers trying to determine just where these animals spend their lives.