Islands of the Azores: Basalt Peaks to Volcanic Vineyards

Towering basalt peaks, bubbling hot springs, emerald-green farmlands, fascinating seafaring history, world-class wine, and culinary specialties. These are just some of the beauty and vitality you’ll discover as we explore the dramatically beautiful Portuguese archipelago of the Azores.

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1:

São Miguel

Arrive in São Miguel, the charming capital of the Azores. Transfer from the airport to the city of Ponta Delgada and spend the day at your own pace, exploring the sights, sounds, and tastes of this island capital.

Day 2:

Pico & Faial

Towering over the island, the dormant Ponta do Pico is the highest peak on the Atlantic Ridge and a symbol of Pico's rich heritage in whaling and wine. Visit Lajes do Pico to explore the Whalers' Museum, then head to the UNESCO-listed wine region, where lava rock corrals shelter unique vineyards. Enjoy a tasting of these remarkable wines before sailing to Faial, where you'll toast the day at the legendary Peter Café Sport, a historic stop for sailors.

Day 3:

Faial

Following breakfast on board the ship, head to Capelinhos, where you can see how dramatically the landscape changed when its volcano erupted in 1957. Farms and villages were covered with ash, which added nearly an extra mile of land to the island. Later, stroll in the marina, visit the excellent scrimshaw museum, and enjoy a coffee at a local café.

Day 4:

São Jorge

This morning, visit São Jorge, formed by volcanic fissures. An impressive mix of imposing sea cliffs and fajãs, coastal plateaus formed from lava flows, the island has fertile soil that supports picturesque grasslands and farms. On trails that crisscross the ridge and beaches, hike to Caldeira de Santo Cristo Lake, known for its clams; visit the small villages perched on the fajãs; explore the coffee and tea plantations and taste world-renowned São Jorge cheese. Be on deck with binoculars this afternoon as you sail around the tip of the island, passing cliffs with nesting sea birds and looking for dolphins and whales.

Day 5:

Graciosa

Aptly named, this "gracious" island has been designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve for the balance its inhabitants have achieved between preserving the geography and promoting sustainable human development. Travel through a beautiful patchwork of farmland and vineyards dotted with windmills en route to the ancient village of Santa Cruz. At the natural monument Caldeira da Graciosa, you'll see Furna do Enxofre, a unique lava cave and underground lake. Later, stroll through the village of Praia, enjoy the sweet pastry queijada da Graciosa, and soak up the tranquility of this quiet harbor.

Day 6:

Terceira

First settled by Portuguese navigators around 1450, Terceira became a popular port of call for merchant ships and the economic and religious center of the Azores. Explore historic villages like Porto Judeu, a small fishing community; São Sebastião, which features a notable 15th-century parish church; and Altares, with its quaint whitewashed houses capped with traditional chimneys and painted cones. Stroll the streets of Praia da Vitória or take a walking tour to see the forts, palaces, churches, museums, and gardens of Angra do Heroísmo. Step back in time at this 15th-century UNESCO World Heritage Site and see firsthand the indelible mark left by ancient explorers, conquerors, and religious leaders.

Day 7:

Santa Maria

As you cruise towards the island of Santa Maria, be on deck to search for the islands' many cetaceans. Go ashore at Santa Maria, historically significant as the first landfall of Christopher Columbus on his return from the Americas in 1493. You'll see a statue of the explorer in the village of Anjos and admire breathtaking vistas as you travel along the coast. Those who choose to hike the Pico Alto-Baíia dos Anjos trail will travel from the island's highest point to the sea, where they can observe marine birds in their azure surroundings.

Day 8:

São Miguel

Explore the Furnas Valley and its renowned hot springs, hike the trails, and visit a tea plantation. Sample a typical Azorean dish for lunch: cozido, a dish made with a variety of meats and vegetables naturally cooked underground from the heat of volcanic activity. Following lunch, join local whale spotters and a marine biologist onboard a catamaran in search of the gentle giants of the sea.