Portugal & The Islands of Madeira & the Azores cruises
Portugal’s islands are bursting with fascinating landscapes filled with flora and fauna, making this the ideal region for those wanting to get closer to nature. Cruising is a great way to explore the hard-to-reach, remote archipelago of the Azores, which boast dramatic, volcanic landscapes. Our Azores cruises feature the ‘Garden Island’ of Madeira too. With its fragrant flora, unique levada trails and sweet wines, a visit here always feels enlivening.
Portugal’s islands are bursting with fascinating landscapes filled with flora and fauna, making this the ideal region for those wanting to get closer to nature. Cruising is a great way to explore the hard-to-reach, remote archipelago of the Azores, which boast dramatic, volcanic landscapes. Our Azores cruises feature the ‘Garden Island’ of Madeira too. With its fragrant flora, unique levada trails and sweet wines, a visit here always feels enlivening.
Making the most of every single day
Whale Watching in the Azores
The sparkling crystalline waters of the Azores are home to an abundance of magnificent marine mammals including the humpback, minke, blue, sei, and northern bottlenose whales. You may also catch a glimpse of turtles, sunfish or schools of tuna. These resident species live here all year round, giving you a fantastic opportunity to watch them as they breach the surface along the coastline.
The Volcanic Landscapes of the Azores
For those who have a passion for outstanding natural landscapes, a visit to the Sete Cidades crater lakes are a must when sailing to the Azores. Made up of two lagoons, the Blue Lake and the Green Lake, named after the way the sun reflects off them both, the lakes are situated within a volcanic crater and are best seen from a number of viewpoints situated around the crater.
Scenic Discovery highlights
Our cruises to the Azores and Madeira have been planned to show you some scenic highlights as we sail between ports. These include sailings past Santa Maria, a remote island with historical links to Columbus, the mighty Cape Girão sea cliff in Madeira and cruising past the rugged Desertas Islands.
Meteor shower and stargazing
As we sail past the rugged, volcanic landscapes of Madeira and the Azores, head out on deck to take in the sunrise at sea, or make the most of the little light pollution and join us for stargazing sessions. From Balmoral's decks, spot shooting stars caused by the Perseid Meteor Shower in August of this year as we bring the night sky to life, along with a knowledgeable astronomer.
"The Azores were fascinating: beautiful, lush surroundings, lots of history and colourful and characterful people. Funchal was enchanting and managed to be sophisticated, historic and charming."
Vistas & Volcanoes of Azores & Madeira - Feefo Indpendent Review
Portugal & The Islands of Madeira & the Azores
Across its mainland and Atlantic islands, Portugal has a unique mix of history, culture and nature. The islands' lush crater lakes and botanical gardens perfectly contrast the fascinating maritime history waiting to be explored among terracotta tile-lined streets.
Our team of Journey Planners have created a number of cruises with destinations selected to really showcase the diverse landscapes and fascinating flora and fauna of the hard to reach Azores and Madeira.
Nestled in the heart of the Atlantic Ocean lies the Azores, an enchanting archipelago brimming with natural wonders and cultural heritage. Whether a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking tranquillity, this captivating destination promises an unforgettable experience.