Sailboat travel · Western Europe

Hello. I’d like to rent a catamaran in the Canary Islands or the Azores for a week and sail around the island, staying about 5–6 km from the coast to try to spot dolphins, whales, turtles... and drop anchor in a cove each evening to spend the night.

I’ve never done this kind of trip before, so I’m looking for advice from people who’ve experienced this type of travel.

I’d like to do this trip in early July or early August.

I’d like to rent a catamaran with a professional skipper. Ideally, the boat would belong to the skipper.

We’d be a group of 6: 4 adults and 2 teens (12 and 16 years old). The teens are strong swimmers, love the sea, and have already swum in the ocean (diving from a boat).

Which departure destination should I choose? The Canary Islands or the Azores?

Should I go with an independent professional skipper or book through a big company? I usually prefer to support locals or island residents when I travel.

How far from the coast should we go to spot cetaceans?

Catamaran or monohull?

It’s with the advice of experienced travelers that I’m building this trip step by step. 😊

There are my ideas, my wishes, and then there’s reality. 😄

Thanks in advance for your help.