Learn with experienced biologists
01 · Educational talk
Before boarding, we offer a 30-minute talk with specialized biologists, sharing valuable information about humpback whales and the marine ecosystem.
Every year, humpback whales leave Antarctica and pass Ilhabela during one of the planet’s most impressive migrations. During this season you may witness huge breaches, tail slaps and unique moments at sea.
Every year, between May and August, humpback whales leave cold feeding grounds and pass through the Ilhabela region during their migration along the Brazilian coast toward breeding areas. During this period, breaches, tail slaps and other behaviors can turn a day at sea into an unforgettable encounter.
Humpback whales are the predominant species during the season, but the sea is alive and other cetaceans and marine animals may also appear. Whales are free in their natural habitat, so whale watching is never a scheduled show: each day depends on the sea, weather and the animals themselves.
The search takes place mainly south of Ilhabela, following areas used by passing whales. Scalea combines local experience, safety, information and responsible observation, respecting the animals throughout the encounter.
During the season, humpback whales pass through the region on their migration along the Brazilian coast. Encounters happen in the open sea and may include other cetaceans, birds and marine life — always unpredictably.
From the educational talk to breakfast, each step prepares you to make the most of your encounter with the ocean.
Before boarding, we offer a 30-minute talk with specialized biologists, sharing valuable information about humpback whales and the marine ecosystem.
Before boarding, we offer a delicious breakfast so you can start the tour comfortably and with energy.
During the tour, a biologist is on board to share information about whale behavior and the marine ecosystem.
Compare quickly, then see the details of each option.
Humpback Immersion is for those who want to spend a full day immersed in this environment, with everything prepared with extra care. We also offer a Private Tour, reserved only for you, your family and friends.
A stable, spacious vessel offering safety and comfort on board, ideal for guests prone to seasickness or those who need extra comfort.
In the plansHumpback Immersion, when no whale encounter occurs, we offer conditions for another attempt during the 2026 season.
* Morning: 8:30 am to 12:30 pm
* Afternoon: 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm
Venda Antônio Dias
Av. Princesa Isabel, 683 — Perequê, Ilhabela - SP, 11630-000
Arrive early for the educational talk and boarding organization.
Operation is subject to safety and weather conditions.
Bring a warm layer or windbreaker, sun protection, sunglasses and your personal items. For seasickness, only use medication suitable for you and according to professional guidance.
Before booking, talk to our team about age, comfort needs or sensitivity to seasickness so we can help choose the most suitable plan and vessel.
Beaches, whales, Alcatrazes, history and practical tips to better understand the island — content prepared by Scalea for travelers who want to know the destination before boarding.
Details that make the experience richer, safer and more memorable.
During the tour, a biologist is on board sharing fascinating information about whale behavior and the marine ecosystem.
Available on the Medium and Humpback Immersion plans.Receive a personalized video and photos of your sighting, capturing the most exciting moments with the whales. A unique memory to relive and share your experience.
The material is delivered via Google Drive within 30 days after the tour.
Available on all plans.Records made during our outings in Ilhabela. Wild animals, real encounters and no stock imagery.
Real photographs, with no AI-generated images.
• Most frequently sighted species in our region
• Famous for spectacular breaches and tail slaps
• Adults measure between 12 and 16 meters
• Can weigh up to 30 tons
• Part of one of the planet’s greatest migrations
• Known for curious behavior and surface approaches
• Adults measure between 13 and 17 meters
• Can weigh up to 45 tons
• Impressive for its robust size and striking presence at sea
• One of the smallest large oceanic whales
• Agile, discreet and often curious
• Adults measure between 8 and 10 meters
• Can weigh up to 10 tons
• Largest fish in the world
• Gentle species and harmless to humans
• Can reach 18 meters in length
• Feeds mainly by filter feeding
• Known for the light spots on its body
• Extremely agile and playful
• Adults measure between 1.6 and 2.3 meters
• Lives in groups and often follows boats
• One of the world’s best-known species
• Intelligent, social and curious
• Measures between 2 and 4 meters in length
• Can weigh up to 650 kg
Experiences shared by guests who have already gone whale watching with Scalea.
1,700+ reviewsfrom Scalea guests
“Respect for marine life, boat comfort and attentive service.”
Julia M.Google“An attentive and caring team; a true show of nature.”
Marília GabrielaGoogle“Commitment to the animals and a great deal of shared knowledge.”
Fabricio StorckGoogle“The experience exceeded expectations, with learning and emotion.”
Valéria PradoGoogle“Whales, dolphins and birds, plus the kindness of the team.”
LuzGoogle“Educational talk, comfort, cleanliness and crew attention.”
Paula N. GuedesGoogle“Safety, organization and respect for responsible observation.”
Brena IGoogle“Breakfast, educational talk, comfort and lots of emotion.”
Beatriz RGoogle“Our family was warmly welcomed and loved the whole experience.”
Lucas M.Google“Respect for the animals and an experience worth repeating.”
Fernanda P.Google“Care for nature and an unforgettable encounter.”
Gaivota ToursGoogle“Responsibility, safety, professionalism and excellent explanations.”
Camilla C.Google“A comfortable Humpback Immersion, excellent biologists and respect for the animals.”
Fer FassinaGoogle“As a returning guest, I notice continuous improvement in the Scalea experience.”
Ana Lúcia C.Google“Service, structure and the excitement of the sightings.”
Wander F.Google“An exciting, organized experience conducted with great respect.”
Scalea guestGoogle“The team explained every step clearly and made the day special.”
Scalea guestGoogle“Boat comfort and the team’s care throughout the search.”
Scalea guestGoogle“Nature, learning and emotion from beginning to end.”
Scalea guestGoogle“Excellent service and an experience that stays with you.”
Scalea guestGoogleChoose your experience in Ilhabela or talk to our team before booking.
The season runs from May 16 to August 16. Since these are wild animals, frequency and behavior vary.
The activity is a whale-watching attempt in a natural environment and an encounter cannot be guaranteed. The team conducts the search with local experience and responsible observation.
Basic for affordability; Medium for a balance of structure and value; Immersion for a more complete experience; Private for exclusivity.
PIX in full at the advertised price. Card payments have a 10% surcharge and can be split into up to 6 interest-free installments. Installment PIX also has a 10% surcharge.
Yes. All whale-watching passengers are covered by personal accident insurance, on every boat.
For more than 13 years, Scalea has been a reference in boat rentals and nautical experiences on the northern coast of São Paulo. Based in Ilhabela, we built our story by offering exclusive tours, personalized service and a strong commitment to guest safety.
Over the years, we have had the privilege of creating unique moments for thousands of people, whether on tours to Ilhabela’s idyllic beaches, visits to the Alcatrazes Archipelago, whale watching or special celebrations on board our vessels.
Our mission has always been to offer much more than a boat rental. We want to create memorable experiences with selected vessels, experienced crews and carefully planned itineraries so every guest can enjoy the best the sea has to offer.
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