The Azores are a paradise for boat lovers. With their volcanic islands rising dramatically from the Atlantic, there’s no better way to experience their raw beauty than by boat. Whether you’re interested in wildlife observation, scenic cruising, or private sailing, the Azores offer a colorful variety of ocean adventures. We especially love the Vila Franca Islet: Biologist Guided Eco Boat Tour for its naturalist insights, and the Corvo Boat Trip for its off-the-beaten-path charm and whale-watching opportunities. If you want a private experience, the Ponta Delgada: Private Sailboat Cruise with Drinks & Snacks shines for its exclusivity and comfort. For an extraordinary sunset, the Sunset Boat Tour in São Miguel delivers stunning views, while the Capelinhos Volcano tour on Faial Island offers volcanic landscapes from a boat perspective.
In this list, you’ll find different types of tours: eco-friendly circumnavigations, whale-spotting excursions, private sails, scenic sunsets, and island explorations by boat and van. Each one provides a unique way to see the Azores from the water. For more details, explore the tours and their highlights below.
1. Vila Franca Islet: Biologist Guided Eco Boat Tour
At number 1, this eco boat tour around Vila Franca Islet combines natural beauty with expert storytelling. Book this [] and enjoy a 1-hour boat ride led by a qualified biologist or naturalist. It’s an intimate experience that emphasizes learning about the submerged volcano’s geology, marine wildlife, and local tales.
What makes this tour stand out is the educational commentary that turns a scenic cruise into a mini-seminar on the island’s volcanic origins and rich marine life. You’ll spot seabirds, fish, and maybe even lightfoot crabs, all while capturing sweeping views of Vila Franca do Campo and the Atlantic. The boat travels comfortably, ensuring everyone has a good vantage point, and the guides’ insights help you appreciate the maritime history and natural mysteries of the islet. Reviewers praise its balance of fun and education, with a 4.7/5 rating from 417 reviews. It’s perfect for travelers who love wildlife, geology, or just enjoy a relaxing scenic cruise with some interesting facts.
Bottom Line: A perfect short, informative outing that’s ideal for families, nature lovers, or anyone wanting a quick but meaningful boat experience.
2. Corvo Boat Trip
Ranking at number 2 with a perfect 5.0/5, the Corvo Boat Trip is a full-day excursion that starts on Flores Island and heads toward Corvo Island. This 7-hour journey is a rare chance to explore one of the most remote and unusual islands in the Azores. The trip departs from Santa Cruz and passes through impressive sights like Gruta do Galo and Cascata da Talisca—perfect for those who appreciate natural scenery. You also have the chance to spot dolphins and whales, making it a great pick for wildlife enthusiasts.
The boat used, a rigid inflatable with a capacity of just 12, offers an intimate experience and allows for closer encounters with the coastlines and volcanic formations. Once on Corvo, you can explore the crater, enjoy the small village, and take in the unspoiled landscapes. Reviews highlight the knowledgeable skipper Hugo, who is attentive to wildlife sightings and makes the trip special. Many reviewers mention how the trip’s timing and pace offer ample time to explore Corvo while enjoying the ocean views.
Bottom Line: For a full day of adventure with whale-watching, volcanic views, and a chance to visit one of Portugal’s most isolated islands, this trip is hard to beat.
3. Ponta Delgada: Private Sailboat Cruise with Drinks & Snacks
The Private Sailboat Cruise is at number 3, offering a luxurious (but affordable for a group) way to experience São Miguel from the water. At around $443, it’s a great value for up to six people for a 4-hour, customizable trip. The cruise departs from the Marina Portas do Mar and offers the chance to learn basic sailing skills, come sail at the helm, and enjoy scenic views.
What sets this tour apart is the personalized service, with the crew providing drinks, snacks, and the opportunity to swim or snorkel in crystal-clear waters. The itinerary includes stops in Caloura for swimming and scenic anchoring, making it perfect for those who want a relaxed, private experience with a touch of adventure. Reviewers love the friendly guides and the chance to see the island from a different perspective, describing the trip as both fun and peaceful.
Bottom Line: Best suited for small groups or couples seeking privacy, a hands-on sailing experience, and the option to swim in secluded bays.
4. São Miguel: Sunset Boat Tour – Golden Light, Cliffs & Caves
Number 4 on our list offers the spectacular experience of watching the coastline during sunset. This 2.5-hour tour departs from Rabo de Peixe and takes you along the coast, exploring caves, promontories, and geological formations that glow with the sunset’s amber hues. The Sunset Boat Tour captures the dramatic beauty of the coastal cliffs, including scenic stops at Santa Barbara Beach, Monte Verde Beach, and Farol do Cintrão.
You’ll enjoy a calm crossing of the open sea, with plenty of time to take photos and absorb the peaceful atmosphere. Many travelers appreciate the serenity of the evening on the water, with views that are unbeatable at this time of day. The tour concludes in the charming fishing port of Rabo de Peixe, making it a perfect way to end a day of sightseeing.
Reviewers rate it 5/5, noting the incredible colors, tranquil waters, and unique coastal geology seen at sunset. It’s a hit for couples, photographers, or anyone wanting a quieter, more contemplative boat experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for sunset lovers and photographers wanting that perfect golden hour shot of São Miguel’s cliffs.
5. Faial Island: Unique boat tour to the Capelinhos volcano
At number 5, this 2.5-hour boat tour on Faial offers an up-close look at the Capelinhos volcano. Led by Capelinhos Ocean Tours, this adventure is perfect for those wanting to explore the volcanic landscape from a different angle. The tour features unbeatable prices and a chance to see the famous lighthouse and the volcanic crater that dramatically altered the landscape in 1957.
The guide is enthusiastic and knowledgeable, sharing stories of the eruption and the island’s geological evolution. The trip includes several stops to observe volcanic rock formations and marine wildlife, with some reviews mentioning the lively guide’s contagious enthusiasm. The tour’s value is high, especially considering the close-up views of such a significant natural feature.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect for families or geology buffs keen to see the volcanic side of Faial from the water and learn about the island’s fiery past.
6. São Miguel: Island Highlights Private Tour by Boat and Van
Completing our list, the Island Highlights Private Tour offers a full 8-hour exploration combining boat and land. Starting from Ponta Delgada, this tour visits Lagoa do Fogo, the Salto do Cabrito Waterfall, the Gorreana Tea Factory, and the iconic Vila Franca do Campo Islet for snorkeling.
This trip is ideal for those who want a comprehensive, private experience. The itinerary includes scenic drives, stops for local snacks, and a three-hour boat cruise around Vila Franca, allowing you to see the island’s highlights from multiple angles. The reviews highlight the personalized attention and the chance to customize the day to your interests.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers wanting a tailored, full-day experience with both land and sea adventures, especially families or small groups.
How to Choose the Best Boat Tour in Azores
When selecting your ideal boat experience, consider your budget, interests, and time available. If wildlife and geology fascinate you, the Vila Franca Islet eco tour offers a perfect mix of education and scenery. Want a private, relaxing day on the water? The Ponta Delgada private sail provides comfort, personalized service, and snorkeling. For wildlife lovers, the Corvo trip combines whale-watching and island exploration, while the sunset tour is perfect for a peaceful end to your day.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred time slot. If you’re planning to visit Faial, don’t miss the volcanic Capelinhos tour for a close-up of one of the Azores’ most iconic landscapes.
Final Thoughts
The Azores truly offer a diverse array of boat tours—from short eco cruises to full-day private adventures. For a quick introduction to marine wildlife, the Vila Franca Islet tour is hard to beat. For a more immersive experience, the Corvo trip delivers both whale-watching and volcanic scenery. And if you’re craving exclusivity, the private sail offers a luxurious escape.
Whatever your style, booking your boat tour early and choosing one aligned with your interests will ensure you make the most of your time in this stunning Atlantic archipelago. With options for wildlife, geology, scenery, or private comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to enjoy the waters of the Azores.
