Two Weeks with Whale Project Azores: Hands-On Whale Research from Horta

Whale Project Azores runs a rigorous, hands-on two-week field course based in Horta on Faial Island in the Açores. Over 14 days you'll join marine researchers aboard local research vessels operated out of the Dive Azores shop at the marina of Horta, learning to identify cetaceans, record behavioral data, and deploy non-invasive survey techniques. The program is equal parts classroom and sea time: mornings are spent practicing acoustic and visual identification, afternoons tracking surveys across the volcanic seascape, evenings reviewing footage and logging sightings. The scene here is dramatic: the channel between Faial and Pico keeps upwelling currents that attract sperm whales, common dolphins, Risso's dolphins, and rarer species. Volcanic rock forms the spine of the islands, creating steep cliffs, offshore pinnacles, and nutrient-rich waters that support seabirds, turtles, and occasional shark sightings. The work focuses on cetacean ecology - group size, diving behavior, surface patterns and acoustic signatures - so every sighting becomes a lesson in species recognition and research protocol. WPA emphasizes non-invasive methods: photo-identification, behavioral sampling, and acoustic monitoring. Field instructors guide teams through transect design, data entry, and ethical observation practices. Small group sizes - up to 14 participants - mean hands-on experience with real research equipment and a chance to contribute to long-term monitoring efforts that local scientists rely on. The minimum age is 18; the captain reserves the right to evaluate fitness for sea conditions. Beyond the science, the trip is an immersion in island life. Horta's marina is a hub of sailors and researchers, where basalt cliffs meet painted boat hulls and cafés serve fresh fish. Historically, these islands have long been waypoints for North Atlantic navigation and modern marine research; that practical seafaring heritage shapes every outing. Weather and sea state can change plans; the operator may postpone or refund trips for safety. Who this is for: aspiring marine researchers, naturalists, and committed travelers who want practical field skills rather than a sightseeing cruise. Expect early mornings, long days at sea, and evenings spent processing data alongside researchers. Bring sea-leg stamina, sun protection, and a sense of curiosity. Why book it: two weeks with Whale Project Azores gives you structured training, a chance to contribute to regional cetacean databases, and repeated surveys in a biologically rich volcanic archipelago. Departures start at the Dive Azores shop at Horta marina, and each day on the water is an opportunity to learn methods that scientists use to understand and protect North Atlantic whales. Participants should plan for variable weather, bring seasickness medication if prone, and expect hands-on nights cataloging sightings; successful graduates leave with field experience, reference-quality photographs, and contacts in the Azores research community - making this two-week course both an educational immersion and a meaningful contribution to ongoing conservation work and policy efforts.