TERMS & CONDITIONS
Please read our terms and conditions carefully, as well as all necessary information, before participating in the tour. OceanEmotion is not responsible for any lack of awareness of the terms and conditions or for incorrect information provided by third parties. By participating in the activity with us, you agree and accept to our terms and conditions.
1. BOOKINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Be informed: We recommend making your reservation in advance to secure your spot and have time to clarify any doubts in a calm and timely manner.
Notify us about your health or special conditions: You should inform the company if you have any of the following conditions: pregnancy, children under 2 years old, back problems, reduced mobility, heart or mental illnesses, serious health issues, or recent surgeries. This information is essential to ensure your safety and comfort. Failing to provide it may put you at higher risk.
Meeting point: The meeting point is directly at our OceanEmotion office in the Marina of Angra do Heroísmo, Terceira Island.
Be punctual: Organize yourself in advance for the scheduled meeting time and location. Consider the time needed to reach our office or to park your vehicle properly. Please remember that check-in is mandatory on the day of the activity. Delays over 15 minutes may result in the loss of the opportunity to participate, and no refund will be given, even if you notify us about the delay. Hotel pick-up and drop-off services are not included in the fees; please contact us directly if you require such a service.
Be prepared: We operate in various weather conditions, so it is important for you to be prepared. We recommend bringing water, a hat, sunscreen, a windbreaker jacket, comfortable clothing for varying temperatures, and suitable footwear for the activity. For those prone to motion sickness, we suggest taking an anti-nausea tablet before departure.
Minors: During activities, each child (0-17 years old) must be accompanied by an adult who is responsible for their safety.
Swimming with dolphins and Snorkeling: Clients should be good swimmers and comfortable in open water. These activities are not suitable for children under 10 years old, pregnant women, or people with reduced mobility.
You’re safe with us: All of our activities are covered by liability insurance.
2. CONDITIONS
Safety first: In cases of adverse weather conditions, the company may decide, for safety reasons, that the activity is not suitable for certain groups, such as small children (0-5 years), pregnant women, people with reduced mobility, those with back problems, or individuals with weakened health conditions, even if the activity still takes place on the day. This decision may be made without prior notice.
Trust our approach: Over the years, we have developed strict methods to ensure the highest level of safety during our tours, so you can make the most of your experience. However, by not following the conduct rules established by our team, you are assuming full responsibility for your own safety and well-being.
Unexpected events: Due to unforeseen situations that are beyond our control, such as adverse weather conditions, mechanical breakdowns, or other issues, OceanEmotion reserves the right to cancel any tour, including during the activity, without prior notice, or substitute any vessel, even if previously confirmed. If this happens, the activity will be rescheduled for another day, or if this is not possible, a refund will be issued.
Not included: Our activities do not include drinks or meals. Additionally, smoking and the use of glass cups are not permitted on board.
Lost and found: We are not responsible for any material losses or damages during the activities.
Overlaps: We are not responsible for activities unrelated to those conducted by OceanEmotion, such as flight schedules, cruises, airport transfers, inter-island tours, personal itineraries, or other external activities.
3. CANCELATIONS
Full refund: Cancelations will only be accepted if made at least 24 hours prior to the start of the activity.
No show: Delays over 15 minutes at the meeting point for the activity, or failure to show up, will result in the total amount being charged, and boarding may be refused.
Adverse conditions: Activities depend on specific weather conditions. If canceled due to unfavorable conditions, the client may choose a new date, or if this is not possible, will receive a full refund.
Minimum number of participants: Activities require a minimum number of participants to take place. If this number is not reached and the activity is canceled, the client may choose a new date, or if this is not possible, will receive a full refund.
Packages: If only one activity of a selected package is carried out and the other cannot take place, the full amount for the activity completed will be charged according to the price list, and the remaining value of the package will be refunded. If two activities are carried out and the third cannot take place, the price will be adjusted to reflect the package for the two activities, and the remaining amount will be refunded. The same procedure will apply for packages with four or more activities.
4. GUARANTEES
Our sightings guarantee: In Whale and Dolphin Watching and Swimming with Dolphins activities, we cannot guarantee specific sightings, such as only whales, only dolphins, or both on a single tour, as we work with wild animals whose behavior is unpredictable. However, we guarantee the sighting of at least one species of whale or dolphin present in the waters of the Azores. If no sightings occur during the tour, the client may schedule another tour for free or, if that is not possible, will receive a full refund.
Dolphin or whale sightings without swimming opportunity: Although the goal of the Swimming with Dolphins activity is to snorkel with dolphins, we cannot predict whether we will be able to do so, as we work with wild animals and their behavior is unpredictable. However, if at least one species of dolphin or whale is sighted but it is not possible to swim with the dolphins (swimming with whales is prohibited in the Azores, except in specific cases allowed for conservation purposes and authorized by the Government of the Azores), the client may schedule another tour for free or, if that is not possible, the charge for the accompanying person will be apply.
Observer: Accompanying person during Swimming with Dolphins or Snorkeling activities which chose not to enter in the water at the time of booking, or in the event of a sighting guarantee during Swimming with Dolphins. Note that clients who decide not to swim, demonstrate poor swimming skills, or show an inability to use the equipment requested during the activity will not be considered as an observer.