HORTA CATAMARAN FIELD GUIDE
Private Catamaran Around Faial & Pico — Tailored Dolphin Swims and Snorkels
A skippered, private charter (April–October) that lets small groups customize a 4–8 hour sea outing for dolphin swimming, snorkeling and marine-wildlife observation.
Private Catamaran Around Faial & Pico — Tailored Dolphin Swims and Snorkels.
Set from Horta's shores, this private catamaran experience lets you and your companions shape a day at sea around the islands of Faial and Pico — from relaxed coastal cruising to focused wildlife encounters and snorkeling — all delivered on an exclusive charter with a skipper and crew.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Dolphins, whales, turtles and seabirds
The trip is organized around marine-wildlife observation: opportunities include cetacean watching and swimming with dolphins, as well as sightings of seabirds and sea turtles in the waters between Faial and Pico.
An exclusive charter for your group
These are private charters for up to eight people, run with a skipper and crew; depending on group size and chosen activities the operator may use a catamaran or a semi‑rigid craft.
Snorkeling, coastal dives and Princesa Alice
Guests can plan snorkeling and coastal dives, including optional excursions to the Princesa Alice seamount for more advanced dive encounters — the precise program and vessel choice are arranged when booking.
What the day feels like
What the outing feels like
Board with a clear plan or an open agenda: the skipper and crew adapt the route and activities to your wishes. Over a 4‑ to 8‑hour window you’ll cruise the shores of Faial and cross to Pico, stopping for wildlife watches, dolphin swims or snorkeling sessions; on full‑day charters water and a light snack are provided aboard.
THE WILDLIFE
Dolphins, whales, turtles and seabirds
The trip is organized around marine-wildlife observation: opportunities include cetacean watching and swimming with dolphins, as well as sightings of seabirds and sea turtles in the waters between Faial and Pico.
THE BOAT
An exclusive charter for your group
These are private charters for up to eight people, run with a skipper and crew; depending on group size and chosen activities the operator may use a catamaran or a semi‑rigid craft.
THE ACTIVITIES
Snorkeling, coastal dives and Princesa Alice
Guests can plan snorkeling and coastal dives, including optional excursions to the Princesa Alice seamount for more advanced dive encounters — the precise program and vessel choice are arranged when booking.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this private charter suits best — and who should reconsider.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Charters operate seasonally from April through October and are offered as half‑day or full‑day outings (4–8 hours).
This is a private charter limited to a maximum of eight passengers; the operator will choose a catamaran or semi‑rigid craft depending on group size and selected activities.
The charter includes a skipper and crew, an on‑board briefing, water for all trips and a light snack on full‑day (8‑hour) charters.
Itineraries and the final cost depend on the chosen activities and vessel; discuss your plan with the operator in advance so they can organize the best adventure.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the charter?
Charters are offered as 4‑hour or 8‑hour outings.
How many people can join a private charter?
The private charter accommodates up to eight passengers.
When can I book this trip?
Trips are available from April through October.
What is included in the price?
The charter includes a skipper and crew, onboard explanation/briefing, water for all trips and a light snack on full‑day (8‑hour) charters.
Can the itinerary or vessel change?
Yes. The route and whether a catamaran or semi‑rigid is used depend on the number of people, the activities chosen and prior reservations; the operator tailors the plan accordingly.