This mesmerizing journey through the Azores archipelago begins and ends in the charming city of Ponta Delgada on São Miguel Island. Sail under full sails to explore the vibrant marina of Horta on Faial Island, the serene landscapes of Graciosa Island, and the historic charm of Praia da Vitória on Terceira Island. The adventure continues to Velas on São Jorge Island, known for its dramatic cliffs and verdant beauty, before returning to São Miguel for a perfect finale. This itinerary offers a blend of natural splendor, volcanic landscapes, and unique island culture.
- Seafaring art on the quay walls: Horta, the most colorful marina in the world.
- The fascinating nature of the Azores: deep volcanic craters, rocky cliffs and mystic forests.
- Ponta Delgada: a charming capital and the gateway to the dramatic volcanic landscape of the Azores.
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or [email protected]) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or [email protected]) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Departure 7:00 pm
The lively capital of São Miguel receives its guests at the trefoil-shaped city gate and invites them in on mosaic-like cobbled pavements through narrow lanes leading to whitewashed houses with black facade decoration made from basalt. The historic old city of Ponta Delgada is covered by a preservation order. Two large lakes are picturesquely set in the crater of Sete Cidades – the sapphire blue Lagoa Azul and the emerald green Lagoa Verde. At the edge of the crater the view widens out and exposes a spectacular panorama. On one side ebony sand and by the azure Atlantic, on the other side turquoise crater lakes amidst green rolling hills and blue flowering hydrangea bushes.
Climbing the rigging, untying ropes, setting sails – today is all about sailing. Time to lean back and relax in the deck chair and watch the passionate crew hoisting the sails by hand.
Arrival 8:00 am, Departure 11:00 pm
Early on, Horta linked the Old World with the New and is the most international place in the archipelago. The port is a hub of activity; almost every yacht that sails across the Atlantic makes a stop at Horta, making her famous port the world's most colorful marina. The quay walls are a kind of guest book for skippers where for centuries people have immortalised themselves with a painting or inscription. The Azores last proved their volcanic origin in 1957 when the Capelinhos volcano suddenly emerged out of the sea in an eruption. The caldera is two kilometres (1.3 miles) in diameter and Faial expanded by 2.4 square kilometres (1 square mile). Nowadays the area is a bizarrely picturesque spot.
Arrival 8:00 am, Departure 1:30 pm
Graciosa, the second smallest island in the Azores, has the most unusual natural phenomena in the archipelago. Furna do Enxofre, the huge sulphurous cave in the dark centre of the caldera, lets you take a glimpse into the underworld. A large steaming lake, 15 metres (49 foot) deep, stretches across an 80-metre (262 foot)-high volcanic cave and is bewitchingly lit by daylight shining in. On the island's fertile soil, only slightly protected from the wind by walls of lava rubble, cereal crops, fruit and vines flourish. Red-crested windmills are now the emblem of this charming island.
Arrival 8:00 am, Departure 6:00 pm
Arrival 8:00 am, Departure 1:30 pm
Velas, the charming capital of São Jorge Island in the Azores, captivates visitors with its historic architecture and scenic landscapes. The town is an ideal starting point for exploring the famous "Fajãs", flat coastal plains formed by volcanic activity. In Velas, visitors can savor traditional Azorean cuisine, renowned for its cheese and fresh seafood. Numerous hiking trails offering breathtaking views make Velas a paradise for nature lovers and adventurers.
Arrival 9:00 am
The lively capital of São Miguel receives its guests at the trefoil-shaped city gate and invites them in on mosaic-like cobbled pavements through narrow lanes leading to whitewashed houses with black facade decoration made from basalt. The historic old city of Ponta Delgada is covered by a preservation order. Two large lakes are picturesquely set in the crater of Sete Cidades – the sapphire blue Lagoa Azul and the emerald green Lagoa Verde. At the edge of the crater the view widens out and exposes a spectacular panorama. On one side ebony sand and by the azure Atlantic, on the other side turquoise crater lakes amidst green rolling hills and blue flowering hydrangea bushes.
Disembarkation.
Itineraries are subject to change.
Sea Cloud Spirit
Building a three-mast full-rigged ship with traditional rigging in the 21st century may seem a little unusual. For SEA CLOUD CRUISES it is a commitment to true passion for sailing. With her clear, classic line she follows the example of her elegant windjammer sisters, but goes completely new ways. An entire deck with balcony cabins, an exclusive wellness and SPA area, a fitness room with sea view, a bistro on deck as an evening alternative to “fine dining” in the restaurant – the youngest member of the SEA CLOUD family offers plenty of room for individuality in addition to genuine windjammer romance.
The SEA CLOUD SPIRIT combines traditional windjammer experience with 21st century comfort with up to 136 passengers.
Cabins
Even more comfort: of the 69 cabins from the owner suite to the superior outside cabin, almost half have balconies or windows to open.
Public areas
Spacious decks, a generous wellness and SPA area, fitness with sea view and much more: on board the SEA CLOUD SPIRIT, one does not only enjoy the freedom under sails.
