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. Extensively renovated in 2003 she was rechristened MS Andrea and began her life as a classic cruise ship, and was chartered by Noble Caledonia for a number of years. In spring 2012 MS Andrea was purchased by our longstanding associates Volga Dream and renamed the MS Serenissima. After a thorough renovation and upgrading, the charming MS Serenissima commenced cruise operations in April 2013 and we have chartered her for the majority of each year since knowing her to be perfect for small ship cruising. 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
SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £200 PER PERSON FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY
Prices per person based on double occupancy
| 14 to 23 April 2021 • 23 April to 2 May 2021 | ||
|---|---|---|
| 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. Extensively renovated in 2003 she was rechristened MS Andrea and began her life as a classic cruise ship, and was chartered by Noble Caledonia for a number of years. In spring 2012 MS Andrea was purchased by our longstanding associates Volga Dream and renamed the MS Serenissima. After a thorough renovation and upgrading, the charming MS Serenissima commenced cruise operations in April 2013 and we have chartered her for the majority of each year since knowing her to be perfect for small ship cruising. 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.
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Ship Directory
Ship Directory
Please find below further details pertaining to the vessel or click on the booklet to download.
We are delighted to have had the MS Serenissima on long term charter since 2013. There are so few ships of her generation still cruising and she is a great testament to her owners who invest considerable sums to keep her on top form. At the end of 2018 she underwent a refurbishment which included both of the lounges and in November 2019 further refurbishments were completed including the cabins on Decks 3 & 4, the reception area and the Venice Restaurant. MS Serenissima is a charming vessel and one of her best known and loved features is her unique style.
The vessel is equipped with a fleet of Zodiac landing craft allowing us to visit remote places where normal tender arrangements are not possible. The Captain, Officers, Expedition Staff, and crew offer a first class service and have been selected for their professionalism and caring attitudes. The atmosphere on board is warm and welcoming and dedicated to discovery and relaxation.
We hope this information booklet answers any questions you may have pertaining to the vessel and wish you a pleasant voyage.
VESSEL TECHNICAL DETAILS
Number of crew: 52
Beam: 43.6 feet
Draft: 15.5 feet
Length: 286 feet
Gross tonnage: 2598 tonnes
Classification: CRS
Cruising Speed: 14 knots
Built: 1960
Refurbished: 2018 & 2019
Registered: St Vincent & GrenadinesAIR-CONDITIONING
The ship is air-conditioned throughout. Please note that only the Serenissima Suites have individually controlled air-conditioning.
ALTERATIONS TO THE SCHEDULE
Our planned schedule may be changed at short notice due to weather conditions or technical reasons. Should there be any alterations the Captain or Cruise Director will inform you of any changes.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
The ship uses a public address system to advise guests of all important information and activities during the cruise. Announcements can be heard throughout the public areas of the ship and in all cabins.
CABINS
The cabins are attractively designed for comfort and convenience. There are eight different grades of cabins arranged over five decks, and all cabins feature either windows or portholes. Windows and portholes do not open in the cabins/suites, except for the Serenissima Suites (numbers 701 – 704) which have a window and a balcony door which opens out onto the balcony.
Facilities include: • Air-conditioning (please note that only the Serenissima Suites have individually controlled air-conditioning) • Dressing table with chair or stool • En-suite bathroom with shower, (please note cabins 601-605 and 507 have a bath with shower attachment) • Hairdryer • Minibar (Serenissima Suites only) • Balcony (Serenissima Suites only) • Dressing gown and slippers • Safe • Flat screen television • Telephone (charges apply) • Wardrobe • Wi-Fi access – You will require your own laptop, tablet or smartphone (charges apply).
COMMUNICATION
In case you wish to contact the ship, please call + 47 2367 4607. This is a Norwegian telephone number so calls will be charged at an international rate. The ship can also be contacted by email at cruise@msserenissima.com (please indicate passenger name and cabin number as the subject).
The telephone system for ship to shore functions is via satellite and charged at €7 Euros per minute for outgoing calls. Please be advised of the following for internal communication:
Cabin to cabin: dial cabin number International line: dial 000+ code of the country + telephone number Reception: dial 800 Doctor: dial 331 or 332
DAILY PROGRAMME
A Daily Programme, detailing the following day’s arrangements as well as any specific information about the day’s activities is produced onboard and delivered to your cabin each evening during the turn down service.
DINING, DRINKING & DIETARY REQUIREMENTS
The Venice Restaurant onboard serves international cuisine and accommodates all guests at a single open seating. Tables seat 4 to 10 diners. In addition, there is an outside dining area for when the weather and itinerary permit. Breakfast and lunch are both buffet style, dinner is waiter service only. Complimentary (red and white) house wine, beer and soft drinks are included with lunch and dinner. Bar drinks and other beverages with meals are not included; these may be purchased onboard and paid for at the end of your cruise. Complimentary tea and coffee are available 24 hours a day at the tea and coffee station located in the Andrea Lounge.
Please advise of any special dietary requests such as vegetarian, vegan, low salt, low cholesterol, gluten free, lactose intolerant to Noble Caledonia (in writing) in advance and we recommend that you also reconfirm with your Cruise Director and Maitre D’ once on board. We regret that not all dietary requests can be guaranteed.
DRESS CODE
During the day, comfortable and casual attire is appropriate. The evenings are smart casual (e.g. a shirt and trousers for gentlemen and a skirt/trousers and blouse for ladies). There will be a welcome and farewell dinner, so you may like to bring something a little dressier for these events. For example, gentlemen may wish to wear a jacket and tie, and ladies a dress or trouser suit. Black tie is not required.
DOCTOR
A medical doctor is available on board 24 hours a day. A fee is charged for any consultations and medication prescribed. Please ensure you carry adequate supplies of any regular medications you may require. If you have any medication which must be kept cold, please ask at reception to store it in the fridge.
ELECTRICITY
The electrical outlets in the cabins and public areas are 220V and take a two-round-pin plug (as in continental Europe). There is a 110/220V, 60Hz outlet for electric shavers in the bathroom. We recommend that you bring an international adaptor.
EMERGENCIES
In case of an emergency please leave your cabin/suite and follow the instructions given by the Captain and Hotel Manager. All public areas have an emergency button. We request that you read the safety instructions on the back of your cabin door.
FIELD STAFF
Throughout your cruise you will be accompanied by your Noble Caledonia Cruise Director/Expedition Leader and an experienced team who will be happy to assist you with any queries or requests.
GOING ASHORE
Please leave your cabin key at reception and take your ship card with you. As soon as you are back on board please hand back your boarding card and pick up your key as this will confirm your presence on board.
When you go ashore individually, please be back on board at least 30 minutes before the advertised departure time of the ship.
GRATUITIES
Gratuities to crew and whilst on excursions are included in the cost of your holiday.
HEALTH & HYGIENE
In order to maintain health standards you will find hand sanitisers at key positions around the ship particularly at the entrance to restaurants and near the gangway. We kindly ask you to use these regularly.
INTERNET
Wi-Fi access is available in public areas with your own laptop, tablet or smartphone and charges apply – 500MB for €15 Euros, or 1GB for €25 Euros. Please note that connection is dependent on weather conditions and location.
LANGUAGE
All members of the crew speak English.
LAUNDRY SERVICE
If you require the laundry service, please leave your laundry bag together with the completed laundry list on your bed before 0900. The laundry bag and list can be found in your wardrobe. Every effort will be made to return your laundry to your cabin within 24 hours. There is no dry cleaning service onboard.
LIFE JACKETS
All life jackets are stored on Deck 6 near the Muster station.
LIFT
There is a lift on board that serves decks 3 to 6. Please note that, due to the layout of the ship, the following cabins are accessible by at least one flight of stairs: 417 – 421, 424 & 701 – 704.
LOST PROPERTY
Before you disembark the ship, please check your cabin to ensure you do not leave anything behind. If you discover you have left any items behind, please contact Noble Caledonia within seven days of disembarking. If we are able to recover your item(s) we will contact you to arrange delivery or collection, and any costs incurred will be at your own expense.
MONEY
The official currency on board is the Euro, but British Pounds are also accepted. All passengers will have their own ship account, which allows you to sign for purchases and services such as bar drinks, telephone calls, laundry etc. throughout your cruise. The following payment methods are accepted for settlement of shipboard accounts:
• Cash (Euros,British Pounds or US Dollars) • Credit Card (MasterCard, Visa, American Express) • Debit Card (MasterCard & Visa) Please note that personal cheques and Travellers’ Cheques are not accepted.
As a result of Russian ownership, please note that credit/debit card payments will be charged in Russian Rubles. The debited amount shown on your bank/building society statement in British Pounds will be based on the relevant exchange rates on the day of the transaction. You may need to make your bank/building society aware that your card payment will be authorised ‘in Russia’ so that payment is not declined, and also to ascertain if any additional charges will be applied. Unfortunately, the ship is not able to offer a money-changing service onboard, as this would be contravening official regulations.
PASSPORTS
Your passport will be kept securely at reception throughout the duration of the cruise, and you will be issued with a ship card which we advise you carry with you at all times when ashore.
POST
Please note that although the reception staff may be happy to post letters and postcards on your behalf, they may not be able to do so straightaway or indeed at the port of call at which you make such a request. Please also note that some postal services are unreliable and that any letters or postcards that you ask to be sent on your behalf may be delayed or even lost en route.
PUBLIC AREAS
• Andrea Lounge (on Deck 5). The bar is open from 09.00 until 24.00. • Harald Jarl Lounge (on Deck 5). There is a small library here with books and games. • Lido area (on Deck 5) with a Jacuzzi and small fitness room with two running machines • Observation Deck (access from Deck 5 lido area) • Deck 5 and Deck 6 outside seating areas
RECEPTION
Reception is open from 7.00 am to 10.00 pm. Overnight the reception’s phone will be switched over to the bridge.
QUESTIONNAIRE
Your comments are important to us therefore before your cruise ends, you will receive a questionnaire. We are always looking for ways to improve your holiday and in order to do this we need some feedback from our guests. Kindly hand your completed questionnaire in to your Cruise Director.
QUIETVOX AUDIO SYSTEM
During our excursions, we use an audio headset system called Quietvox. In your cabin there is a charging station with two devices and two sets of earpieces. Please keep your devices in the charging station (and the station plugged in) whilst you are not on an excursion. Bring the sets with you on excursions as your guides with speak to you through their microphone. The use of the equipment will be explained before the first excursion starts.
SAFE
Although there is a safe in your cabin, we recommend that you leave all extra valuables at home, and bring with you only what you consider necessary. Neither the ship, nor Noble Caledonia, are responsible for any valuables left in the cabins. Beware of petty crime and pickpockets whilst ashore. A money belt worn underneath clothing is useful. Do not take all your money with you when out sightseeing. We advise utmost caution at popular tourist spots. Please do not leave any luggage unattended at any time.
SAFETY & LIFEBOAT DRILL
The safety briefing will take place prior to sailing. All guests must attend this compulsory and important exercise. Please listen for the announcements. During the drill you will be instructed on how to wear and operate your life jacket.
SEA SICKNESS
As on any seagoing vessel, some marked motion may be anticipated in certain areas, dependent upon weather, season, etc. It is recommended that you bring anti-motion sickness medication just in case, even if you have never experienced motion sickness in the past. Please consult your Doctor/General Practitioner (GP) or local pharmacist regarding which medication is appropriate and its side effects. To avert motion sickness, avoid alcohol, tobacco, excess liquids and confined spaces. Most people feel better sitting on deck looking at the horizon or lying down with their eyes shut. Oddly, you will feel better with some food, such as crackers or dry toast in your stomach. Many people eat to avoid feeling sick. Remember, once you start to experience motion sickness, medications are of little help. SHOP The shop sells branded MS Serenissima merchandise.
SHOP
The shop sells branded MS Serenissima merchandise.
SMOKING
Smoking is not permitted in the cabins or public areas. Smoking will only be permitted outside in the designated areas.
SNORKELLING
There is snorkelling equipment available on board the vessel.
TELEVISION
The ship is equipped with a satellite TV system which receives 13 channels. TV reception depends on the satellite dish and on occasion it may not be possible to receive a signal. There is one central video channel on which it is possible to listen to the lectures delivered in the Andrea Lounge. There is also a channel for the ship’s camera located in front of the ship and another which displays the Daily Programme and activities.
TOILETS
The ship is fitted with a sensitive vacuum system. Please do not put anything into the toilet except toilet paper.
TOWELS
Towels will be changed once in the middle of your cruise. Should you need new towels earlier, please let the housekeeper know. Please do not use the bathroom towels on the beach. A separate towel for swimming will be provided.
WATER
Previously the MS Serenissima used 200 plastic bottles of water every day. In order to help reduce the damage caused to the environment by waste plastic, we are replacing plastic water bottles where possible with eco-friendly, reusable water bottles. We have chosen stainless steel bottles, made of durable, high quality stainless steel. It will keep your drink fresh and cool for longer and fit neatly into your bag or backpack. You can fill it up from the water station on board, located in Reception area, deck 5. We recommend that you do not drink nor refill your bottles from the tap in your cabin. The tap water is not potable. The bottle in your cabin is for your personal use during the cruise to take on excursions. Please leave the bottle/s in your cabin at the end of the cruise.
ZODIACS
Some destinations may require the use of Zodiacs to go ashore. These are usually on expedition cruises though may sometimes be used on destination cruises.
PLEASE BE ADVISED: These details should be used as a guideline only. Information is subject to change.
V.6 December 2019
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Videos
Videos
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Deck plans
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Deckplan
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Deckplan
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
11th to 14th April 2021 • 20th to 23rd 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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Caledonian Sky
Itinerary at a glance
- Dakar / Sao Tiago / Fogo / Brava / Santo Antao / Sao Vincente / Sao Nicolau / Palmeira / Sal
10 nights
from
£5295
Next Departure
23 February 2021
Remote Atlantic Islands
A Unique Expedition through the South Atlantic Islands aboard the MS Hebridean Sky
Hebridean Sky
Hebridean Sky
Itinerary at a glance
- Buenos Aires / Ushuaia / Falkland Islands / South Georgia / Tristan da Cunha / St Helena / Ascension Island / Bijagos Archipelago / Dakar
34 nights
- Sold Out
Next Departure
11 March 2021
Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000