1- What is FUTURISMO?

FUTURISMO Azores Whale Watching is pioneering on offering whale and dolphin's observation in São Miguel Island . We are one of the first companies to do Whale Watching and one of the few to integrate old whalers in our activity. What distinguishes FUTURISMO from other companies alike is our concern with the cetaceans and the promotion of environmental education. Our Whale Watching trips are equipped with the interpretation of experienced guides and biologists. Our main goal is the sperm whale observation, which has always been connected with the Azorean islands. These islands located in middle of the Atlantic are rich in other species of whales and dolphins. Today, they are considered one of the best destinies for those who appreciate and desire to see the best of nature.

2- Which boats type is used?

Our fleet is composed by rib boats of 8.5 m , built for this activity and with a high level of security. We also have a 12 m fiberglass boat. The boats are equipped with two seamen, proper seats for each passenger, security equipment such as: vests, first aid kit, two motors, radio VHF, GPS, hydrophone to listen to the whales and dolphins. Our daily capacity of transportation is between 170 and 240 passengers.

3 – How long takes the trip? Where do we go?

Each trip takes approximately 3 hours along the coasts of São Miguel island and Pico island. The explored area changes according to the animals' position. For the most part, the excursions are carried through with good weather and a calm sea. However, it may occur variations caused by the wind changes, susceptible of originating some discomfort such as bigger agitation of the boat and the possibility of the passengers getting some splashes. When the weather conditions are adverse the schedule is cancelled.

4 – Which is the main goal of the trip?

The main goal of each trip is to share some moments with the sperm whales, as our ancestors did, while capturing in camera and in memory some incredible moments.

The Azores are one of the few destinies where is possible to observe groups of sperm whales, formed by females and their cubs . Besides sperm whales, observable all year around, it is possible to see other species of whales, for example pilot whales, fin whales, sei whales, blue whales, beaked whales, humpback whales, and various species of dolphins, turtles and sea birds.

5 – How can I make my reservation?

The reservations can be made on‑line through this site or by telephone. We recommend that you make your reservation as soon as possible.

6 – Who guides the trips?

Our trips are guided by two seamen for each boat. The skipper is a nature guide or a biologist. Both seamen are qualified to supply any informations/ explanations about the trip and the observed species.

7 - Which is the best time of the year to do Whale Watching?

FUTURISMO operates during all year. There are always cetaceans (whales and dolphins) to observe. However, we recommend the season between April and the end of October. During this period, not only our observations statistics present a remarkable success with prominence for the sperm whales observation, but also the meteorological conditions are more favourable.

From February to June it is possible to observe bone whales, namely, fin whales, sei whales, blue whales, humpback whale, killer whales.

8 – Which is the best part of the day to do the observations?

There is no certain information to make a sure recommendation for the best time during the day. The trips can be made during the morning or afternoon.

Based in our experience, throughout several years, we have concluded that in the morning the possibilities of a successful trip are higher due to more favourable weather conditions, calm sea and calm wind.

9 – Is it possible to listen the whales and dolphins vocalizations?

Yes, it is possible to listen to the sound produced by these animals with the use of a hydrophone, that it is put in the water catching the sounds produced by the cetaceans whether for communication or for localization purposes.

10 – Is there any guarantee of a successful trip?

FUTURISMO can only guarantee the return of your money if the trip is not successful. This politic is to show our clients our level of integrity.

11 – How are the whales found?

FUTURISMO uses watchmen to find cetaceans. This is a secular method used in Azores during the whale hunt period. Located in strategic places, men with powerful binoculars try to find whales and dolphins in the horizon. A watchman with experience can find effectively animals on the horizon. The success of our observations is due to this system of cetaceans detection.

12 – What is the distance allowed to observe whales?

FUTURISMO orients itself by the accordance with the Whale Watching rules in Azores . There are principles that only allow approaches up to 50 m from the animal.