The volcanic Azores islands are a major staging post on the blue whale North Atlantic migration, with April-June being the brief but reliable window as animals head north toward Iceland and Greenland feeding grounds. Pico Island is the historical whale-watching capital, with former whalers now guiding eco-tours from Lajes do Pico. At least 15 whale species visit these waters, making the Azores the most species-diverse whale-watching destination in Europe.
