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This in depth cruise of the Azores takes you to all nine islands of this mid Atlantic archipelago. Due to the strategic location (for both mariners and aviators throughout the ages), the culture of the islands’ people has been affected by many other parts of the world. There is a history of pineapple and tea plantations, wine once bottled solely for the Russian Tsar, intricate scrimshaw, whaling, volcanic activity and waves of emigration. Its mid Atlantic location makes it a natural gathering place for whales, dolphins, migrating birds and seabirds. Join us as we explore these nine islands where a sense of timelessness prevails.

Itinerary

(Saõ Miguel) Embark in historical Ponta Delgada

(Graciosa) Experience the tranquility of the island of Graciosa and explore a cave of sulphur, Furna do Enxofre and the charming town of Santa Cruz. Later Zodiac cruise around the volcanic coastal cliffs and islets.

(Flores & Corvo) Spend the morning on Flores, often considered the most beautiful island. It is also of notable geological interest – fajãs, basalt cliffs, and valleys and lakes, most created by volcanic activity. In the afternoon we circumnavigate the tiny island of Corvo, basically created from one caldeira, or if conditions permit, a landing will take place to visit the one small village and walk the rim of the caldeira.

(Faial) Faial has been a haven for sailors throughout time and features a lively yacht marina in Horta. A visit to Ponta dos Capelinhos gives an insight into the impact on the community and environment of the 1957-8 volcanic eruption. The scenic drive back to Horta will take in views of nearby Pico’s symmetrical volcanic peak and a visit to the Botanical Garden. Back at Horta enjoy the Scrimshaw Museum and wander the town.

(Pico) Physically dominated by a dramatic volcanic peak this stunning island is home to the local wine industry (vineyard / wine museum) and the UNESCO designated Lajido Acros. A drive will provide the opportunity to see more of the dramatic peaked landscape. The day concludes at the museum in Lajes do Pico where the story of early whaling in the archipelago is told.

(Saõ Jorge) With more cattle than people, this largely rural island is known for its strong cheddar-like cheese. It is of geographical interest with its cliff shoreline marked with flat fajãssweeping to the sea. We go ashore in the charming old world harbour town of Velas, then the ship cruises the coastline in search of a tranquil fajã for a Zodiac landing.

(Terceira) The UNESCO site Angra do Heroismo has a delightful waterfront area and Mediterranean feel. The best way to experience it is to set out on foot – take in the Misericorda church, Convent do São Francisco, public gardens and museum. In the afternoon, there is time to hike to Monte Brasil to see the fortification and view, or relax and wander the historic town on your own.

(Santa Maria) The terraced cliffside vineyards are the dominant feature of the stunning coastline on this island with small communities, dramatic waterfalls and lava tube caves found throughout. It is the only Azorean island that is both sedimentary and volcanic. Sea conditions will dictate the day’s schedule but possibilities include a visit to São Laurenço or Maia, Zodiac cruise to see marine life and the sea caves or a circumnavigation of the island and on to the Formigas (Ant Islands).

(Saõ Miguel) Disembark in Ponta Delgada.

Optional Land Excursion: April 27 – (09h00 – 16h00) This optional day gives you an opportunity to see the rest of Saõ Miguelisland. The program includes a visit to the thermal springs and steaming geysers at Furnas, a tea plantation and pottery factory. A highlight of the day includes a volcanically cooked lunch (cozido nas caldeiras). Registration at time of cruise booking required. Price per person $125.