The Azores: Mystical Islands of the Mid-Atlantic

The Azores have long held a privileged place as one of Portugal’s earliest outposts during the Age of Exploration. They have longer still enjoyed an important place in natural history. Situated along the Mid-Atlantic Ridge on the border of two tectonic plates, this archipelago has literally risen from the ocean’s depths and become gradually colonized by far-flung organisms whose descendants have adapted to the local conditions and now constitute a

distinctive set of endemic species and subspecies found only here, with plants
and birds as the standouts. The islands have also become a beacon for many cetaceans
who have either made the Azores their permanent home or an annual migratory port-of-call.
On this alumni tour alongside marine mammal expert Dr. Andrew Trites, we have a
chance to discover this archipelago on the edge of two worlds and contemplate the
seeming impossibility of its existence!

 

Our explorations cover both land and sea. On São Miguel, we get a first taste of the rugged volcanic landscapes and shorelines that define the Azores. We get to explore the woodlands of a type found nowhere else. The bird life is also distinctive, and various species here
have diverged from their nearest relatives in Europe. Over 25 cetacean species
have been recorded here, and their ranks include several dolphins as well as
legendary Sperm Whales and Blue Whales. Our time on land is complemented by our
time at sea, where we can watch for whales and dolphins on our private boat
tours. The timing of this tour coincides with the return of several ‘great
whale’ species, so we have a chance of seeing a wide variety. Various hardy
seabirds call the Azores home and accompany us on our forays!

 

The distinctive feel of the islands is enhanced by their unique culture, which we discover in
part through food and fine beverages.

 

To add context and further insights throughout the tour, Dr. Andrew Trites is delivering several presentations on marine mammals, much of it based on his UBC research!  

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