Island Hopping in the Azores
A nine night voyage around the Azores Archipelago aboard the MS Serenissima
- 14 April 2021
- 23 April 2021
Far out in the Atlantic, some 800 miles from the Portuguese coast, the nine islands of the Azores are known for their spectacular volcanic scenery, abundant flora and peaceful lifestyle. The appeal of this remote and unsophisticated archipelago is difficult to define in words, but if you appreciate dramatic scenery, exploring islands where time appears to be standing still, watching for passing whales and learning about the local people and their customs, then this could be the voyage for you. The islands are also perfect for walking enthusiasts with paths through verdant mountain landscapes and we have included some hiking opportunities which, weather permitting, will be a joy for the keen walkers in our group.
Useful links & Travel Advice
Please find a selection of useful websites to refer to for information from the Foreign & Commonwealth Office, on visa requirements, NHS travel health advice and other useful travel tips.
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What to Expect
Below are some extracts from a previous voyage in this region which will provide you with an idea of what to expect should you choose to join our Azorean adventure:
Graciosa Island: A new day, a new island to explore! This morning we docked at the harbour of Praia at Graciosa Island, the second smallest island in the archipelago and the most northern of the central group. We spent the morning on a tour taking in the highlights of the island. One of our stops was the largest town on the island, Santa Cruz, where we walked around the beautifully paved town square. This town hosts the only airport on the island and it is located very centrally in town, leading to plane-spotting becoming a popular pastime for the residents! We also visited the 1930s lighthouse known for great views over the Ponta da Barca, a rock that looks somewhat like a giant whale rising above the surface of the sea; the waves crashing around the whale’s belly actually making it look rather realistic. The highlight of our tour however was a visit to the Furna do Enxofre – the sulphur caves. Located on the southern part of the island and officially open to the public since 1939, these caves are now a popular tourist attraction. Those who descended the 184 steps leading from the visitors centre into the caves were rewarded with a stunning view of the volcanic cavern with its domed ceiling covered in lava stalactites. After lunch on board we set out to explore the harbour and coastline by sea. Despite the wind and the squalls we had a good turnout of well-dressed Zodiac riders proving true the saying that there is no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing! In fact the sun broke through the clouds with perfect timing, and under the protection of the tall cliffs we had lovely conditions to cruise, the layers of volcanic ash and lava making interesting viewing. As we were returning to the ship the Zodiacs were surrounded by hundreds of Cory’s shearwaters effortlessly and beautifully gliding on the waves.
Terceira Island: Terceria Island where we docked this morning is known as a dynamic island and is the second most inhabited in the archipelago. The sun was out and we enjoyed nice views of the pretty town of Angra do Heroismo from the open decks. Today we were not going to use buses to get around, but instead we took off on a walking tour since we were docked conveniently right in town. Angra do Heroismo is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it is easy to understand why. Walking around the colonial style town centre is a bit like being transported back in time. The beautiful cobbled streets, the large colourful houses and palaces, the forts – all this speaks of a time when Angra was a force to be reckoned with as the central hub for trade ships heading to and from the Americas as well as along the coast of Africa. It also played a large part in the Liberal Wars and was, until Ponta Delgada took over the capital of the Azores, and even at one point in the 1830s, the capital of the whole of Portugal! Today the city has lost its economic and political prowess, but the feeling is still very much there and the town was a delight to walk around, our guides as always giving us wonderful interpretation of what we were seeing. Our groups went different ways but regrouped briefly for a coffee and cake stop at one of the oldest bakeries in town before setting off again in different directions. After lunch on board the afternoon was spent at leisure, strolling around town or having a coffee at the many cafes or relaxing on the ship.
Serenissima
The charming MS Serenissima began her career as the Harald Jarl, cruising the Norwegian coastline and fjords. Since 2003, when she was extensively renovated, she has been operating as a classic cruise ship. Previously known as the MS Andrea, she was upgraded again in 2013 and started her new life as the MS Serenissima. With her small size she can navigate into small, remote ports inaccessible to the big cruise ships and appears an impressive sight when moored. With her fleet of Zodiacs, she is capable of both destination and expedition cruising.
Itinerary
Day 1 London to Sao Miguel, Azores.
Fly by scheduled indirect flight. Arrive this afternoon and transfer to the MS Serenissima for embarkation. Enjoy welcome drinks and dinner as we moor overnight.
Day 2 Sao Miguel.
Enjoy a full day exploring the island of Sao Miguel, known as Ilha Verde, the green island and home to some of the most stunning viewpoints in the Azores. This morning we head west towards the Sete Cidades volcano from where we can enjoy excellent views over the Lagos de Canarios. We will continue our drive along the attractive northern coast before arriving in the Furnas Valley, an enormous valley and luxuriant garden in the east of the island where we enjoy lunch. We will also visit the village of Furnas and the botanical gardens before returning to the ship and sailing this evening. For the keen hikers, if weather permits, we will arrange to walk the trail in Sete Cidades.
Day 3 Santa Maria.
Today’s planned itinerary includes visits to the remote settlements of Sao Lourenco and Maia, known for vineyards which rise steeply up high sea cliffs in terraces. This coastline is accentuated by a dramatic waterfall, lava tube caves, seabirds and marine life. Time and conditions permitting, the MS Serenissima will continue its circumnavigation of Santa Maria and cruise around the Formigas (or Ant Islands).
Day 4 Terceira.
This morning explore Angra do Heroismo, a charming UNESCO heritage town with a distinct Mediterranean flavour of cobblestone streets and a certain quiet charm. Enjoy a walking tour that takes in the Misericordia church, Convent do Sao Francisco, public gardens and museum. In the afternoon there will be free time to hike to Monte Brasil, offering wonderful views over the island, or alternatively relax and wander the historic town at your own pace.
Day 5 Graciosa.
Known as the ‘White Island’, Graciosa has a gentle rolling landscape, dotted with windmills and traditional whitewashed houses. Visit Furna do Enxofre (‘Cave of Sulphur’), a geologically unique phenomenon and one of the original examples of the volcanic Azores and take the winding stairway down to the magnificent volcanic cavern and lake. Also see the village of Santa Cruz and the charming Matrix Church. Return to the ship for lunch and spend the afternoon at leisure to explore the small town of Vila da Praia.
Day 6 Flores & Corvo.
Named after its abundant flora, Flores is often regarded as the prettiest of the Azores. A rugged terrain island with flowers growing in the deep canyons and waterfalls casting hues of blues and green as they splash down to the sea. Visit the vertical basalt cliffs of Rocha do Bordoes, formed by the cooling of lava. See a stunning array of natural features including calderas, fajas, rivers, waterfalls and valleys. This afternoon we will use our small ship to circumnavigate the tiny island of Corvo, the smallest island in the archipelago. If weather and sea conditions permit, we will try and make a landing by Zodiac and enjoy the peace of the island with walks in the small community or to the caldera.
Day 7 Sao Jorge.
This largely rural island is of geographical interest with its cliff shoreline marked with flat fajas sweeping to the sea. We start our full day tour on the western part of the island, Ponta dos Rosais, visiting a Forest Park and cheese factory. As we move to the north we enjoy the view over the Fajas, an area of flat land at sea level resulting from the erosion of cliffs. As we make our way to the south side towards Calheta we will stop for lunch at a local restaurant before continuing on to Urzelina to visit the remaining tower of a church buried under lava from the eruption of 1808. Now it is surrounded by fruit trees and vegetation. Upon our return to Velas we will take a walking tour of this charming old-world harbour town.
Day 8 Pico.
Explore distinctive Pico, home to Portugal’s highest peak and numerous black lava flows. The UNESCO-designated Lajido Acros tells the story of early winemakers who used the volcanic soil for the grapes and, on a visit to a vineyard, we will enjoy a tasting of the local product. After a typical Azorean lunch we will learn about whaling life in the Azores at the Museum of Lajes returning to the ship via the Lagoa do Capitao offering views over the north of the island.
Day 9 Faial.
Our day begins with an island drive where we explore the fairly recent volcanic activity at Ponta dos Capelinhos. See how a 1957-1958 volcanic eruption transformed the area and created a new land mass. Continue to the impressive Caldera, now a nature reserve, which is 400 metres deep and nearly 1500 metres in diameter. As we return to the ship we will see the botanical gardens which are devoted to the endemic plants of the Azores. Alternatively, if weather permits, we will arrange to hike the Caldera. This afternoon we enjoy a walking tour of Horta.
Day 10 Sao Miguel to London.
Disembark this morning and transfer to the airport for our scheduled indirect flight to London.
Dates and Prices
14 to 23 April 2021 • 23 April to 2 May 2021 | ||
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Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
2 Standard Stateroom | £4295 | £4095 |
3 Classic Stateroom | £4595 | £4395 |
4 Superior Stateroom | £4895 | £4695 |
5 Deluxe Stateroom | £5395 | £5195 |
6 Junior Suite | £5795 | £5595 |
7 Owner’s Suite | £6395 | £6195 |
8 Serenissima Suite | £6795 | £6595 |
10 Standard Single | £4295 | £4095 |
Tour Reference Code: SCSE140421
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel • Nine nights aboard the MS Serenissima on a full board basis • House wine, beer & soft drinks with lunch and dinner • Noble Caledonia onboard team • Shore excursions • Gratuities • Transfers • Port taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
NB: The ship may be at anchor in Corvo & Santa Maria in which case, weather and conditions permitting, the ship’s Zodiacs may be used to transfer ashore.
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Deckplan
Serenissima
The charming MS Serenissima began her career as the Harald Jarl, cruising the Norwegian coastline and fjords. Since 2003, when she was extensively renovated, she has been operating as a classic cruise ship. Previously known as the MS Andrea, she was upgraded again in 2013 and started her new life as the MS Serenissima. With her small size she can navigate into small, remote ports inaccessible to the big cruise ships and appears an impressive sight when moored. With her fleet of Zodiacs, she is capable of both destination and expedition cruising.
What to Expect
Below are some extracts from a previous voyage in this region which will provide you with an idea of what to expect should you choose to join our Azorean adventure:
Graciosa Island: A new day, a new island to explore! This morning we docked at the harbour of Praia at Graciosa Island, the second smallest island in the archipelago and the most northern of the central group. We spent the morning on a tour taking in the highlights of the island. One of our stops was the largest town on the island, Santa Cruz, where we walked around the beautifully paved town square. This town hosts the only airport on the island and it is located very centrally in town, leading to plane-spotting becoming a popular pastime for the residents! We also visited the 1930s lighthouse known for great views over the Ponta da Barca, a rock that looks somewhat like a giant whale rising above the surface of the sea; the waves crashing around the whale’s belly actually making it look rather realistic. The highlight of our tour however was a visit to the Furna do Enxofre – the sulphur caves. Located on the southern part of the island and officially open to the public since 1939, these caves are now a popular tourist attraction. Those who descended the 184 steps leading from the visitors centre into the caves were rewarded with a stunning view of the volcanic cavern with its domed ceiling covered in lava stalactites. After lunch on board we set out to explore the harbour and coastline by sea. Despite the wind and the squalls we had a good turnout of well-dressed Zodiac riders proving true the saying that there is no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing! In fact the sun broke through the clouds with perfect timing, and under the protection of the tall cliffs we had lovely conditions to cruise, the layers of volcanic ash and lava making interesting viewing. As we were returning to the ship the Zodiacs were surrounded by hundreds of Cory’s shearwaters effortlessly and beautifully gliding on the waves.
Terceira Island: Terceria Island where we docked this morning is known as a dynamic island and is the second most inhabited in the archipelago. The sun was out and we enjoyed nice views of the pretty town of Angra do Heroismo from the open decks. Today we were not going to use buses to get around, but instead we took off on a walking tour since we were docked conveniently right in town. Angra do Heroismo is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it is easy to understand why. Walking around the colonial style town centre is a bit like being transported back in time. The beautiful cobbled streets, the large colourful houses and palaces, the forts – all this speaks of a time when Angra was a force to be reckoned with as the central hub for trade ships heading to and from the Americas as well as along the coast of Africa. It also played a large part in the Liberal Wars and was, until Ponta Delgada took over the capital of the Azores, and even at one point in the 1830s, the capital of the whole of Portugal! Today the city has lost its economic and political prowess, but the feeling is still very much there and the town was a delight to walk around, our guides as always giving us wonderful interpretation of what we were seeing. Our groups went different ways but regrouped briefly for a coffee and cake stop at one of the oldest bakeries in town before setting off again in different directions. After lunch on board the afternoon was spent at leisure, strolling around town or having a coffee at the many cafes or relaxing on the ship.

Tour Extensions
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For those who would like to spend some time in Portugal prior to embarking the MS Serenissima, we have arranged a three-night extension at the beautiful Palacio Estoril Hotel, located a short distance from Lisbon. Our stay will include a half day tour of Lisbon and the remainder of the time will be yours to explore at leisure.
Palacio Estoril Hotel
Located in the heart of Estoril, just 20 minutes from the centre of Lisbon, the Palacio is set in beautiful gardens with outstanding views over Estoril and the Bay of Cascais. The Palacio has been updated and has benefited from several refurbishments and renovations. Today, it offers all the comfort and convenience of a modern luxury five-star hotel while retaining all its charm of the past. During the Second World War, due to Portugal’s neutrality several royal families went into exile in Estoril, which became known as the ‘Coast of Kings’. The Palacio Estoril Hotel was the chosen home of numerous members of European royalty and was also the haunt of British and German spies, who could often be found in its bar. Later, these stories of intrigue and espionage inspired famous novelists and filmmakers and the hotel served as the set for the James Bond movie ‘On Her Majesty’s Secret Service’. In February 2011, the Royal Gallery was created where you can view photographs of the important members of European royalty who stayed at the hotel and the gallery is now one of Estoril’s tourist attractions.
Prices per person based on double occupancy
11 to 14 April 2021 • 20 to 23 April 2021 Category Price Twin £595 Single £845 Price Includes: Three nights accommodation in a classic room at the Palacio Estoril Hotel with breakfast, half day tour of Lisbon, Noble Caledonia Tour Manager, gratuities, transfers.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
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Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000