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Discover the Azores' lush landscapes and unique culture on a cruise.
Cruise Offers for Azores
Travel Tips for Azores
Discover the Breathtaking Azores on Your Next Cruise
The Azores, a stunning archipelago situated in the mid-Atlantic, boasts an extraordinarily lush landscape, unique volcanic formations, and captivating natural beauty. A cruise to the Azores is an unforgettable way to explore these enchanting islands, full of adventure waiting around every corner. Fun fact: The Azores is known for having one of the highest concentrations of marine life in the world, making it an ideal destination for whale watching and dolphin spotting. With its picturesque scenery and rich biodiversity, the Azores offers cruisers a unique experience that you won’t want to miss!
Harbours to Visit in the Azores
When your cruise ship docks in the Azores, here are the must-visit harbours that showcase the beauty and charm of the islands:
As the largest city in the Azores, Ponta Delgada is rich in history and culture. Once you disembark, head to the historic Portas da Cidade (City Gates) and the beautiful Igreja Matriz de São Sebastião church. If you have a little more time, consider visiting the stunning Sete Cidades Lakes—a breathtaking twin lake located in a massive volcanic crater, renowned for its vibrant blue and green hues. Don’t forget to sample some local cuisine in one of the many charming restaurants before returning to your ship!
Famed for its marina and as a hub for international sailors, Horta is not only picturesque but also steeped in maritime history. A must-see is the beautiful Peter Café Sport, where you can enjoy a drink and learn about sailing adventures. Take a stroll along the marina promenade to admire the famous “Mural of the Millenium,” showcasing signatures from seafarers who have crossed the Atlantic. If you’re feeling adventurous, a hike up to the nearby Caldeira do Faial will reward you with spectacular views and fascinating volcanic landscapes!
The charming town of Praia da Vitória is known for its gentle beaches and historical architecture. After docking, explore its picturesque streets, lined with colourful houses, or take a break at the local beach to soak up the sun. Don’t miss the chance to visit the nearby UNESCO-listed Angra do Heroísmo, a town rich in history and culture. If you want to explore the local flavours, try a traditional “Alcatra” dish at a local eatery before you head back to the cruise ship.
Ports Often Visited Before or After the Azores
Cruises to the Azores often include several key ports as part of the itinerary. Here are some notable ones:
As a popular departure port for cruises heading towards the Azores, Southampton offers easy access to historical sites. Before your cruise begins, consider visiting the Titanic Museum or enjoy a stroll through the city’s parks. A quick trip to nearby Winchester, known for its delightful cathedral, is also an option if you have extra time.
When visiting Lisbon, take the opportunity to explore the charming streets of the Alfama district, visit the historic Belém Tower, or ride the iconic Tram 28. Lisbon is undoubtedly a fantastic start to your Azores adventure, offering a taste of Portugal’s rich history and culture, not to mention delicious local cuisine!
As a common departure port for cruises heading to the Azores, Miami is known for its vibrant atmosphere and iconic beaches. Before you embark, consider visiting the colorful Art Deco district, taking a stroll along Ocean Drive or even enjoying a quick dip in the Atlantic! Don’t forget to indulge in some delightful Cuban cuisine while you’re there.
Before embarking on your journey to the Azores, take the chance to explore the stunning works of Gaudí, including the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell. Barcelona’s vibrant nightlife, delicious tapas, and fascinating history make for an exciting start to your cruise holiday.
Often used as a departure point for Azores cruises, Fort Lauderdale boasts beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife. Enjoy a gondola ride through the canals or take a short trip to the nearby Everglades, where you can experience the unique wildlife up close. If you have time, indulge in a meal overlooking the water!
Best Times to Cruise the Azores
The Azores can be visited year-round, but the ideal time to cruise is from June to September. During these months, temperatures range from 17°C to 25°C, offering a pleasant climate for exploring the islands. Spring (April to May) and autumn (October) can also be great times to visit, with milder temperatures around 15°C to 20°C and fewer tourists. Keep in mind that the Azores is known for its unpredictable weather, so packing layers is wise no matter when you visit!
Cruise Pricing Overview for the Azores
Wondering about the cost for cruises in the Azores? A 1-week cruise generally costs between $1,800 and $3,500 for standard itineraries and $4,000 to $8,500 for luxury options. If you’re considering a 2-week cruise, prices can vary from $2,500 to $6,000 for regular cruises and sky-high for luxury options. For budget travellers, the shoulder season (April to June or September) often sees lower prices than the peak summer months. Dining in the Azores averages about $20 to $35 per meal, while drinks typically cost between $5 and $10.
Major Cruise Lines Offering Azores Itineraries
- Norwegian Cruise Line
With a fleet of 20 ships, Norwegian offers 12 vessels that sail to the Azores, including Norwegian Sky and Norwegian Breakaway. Frequently departing from Miami or Lisbon, Norwegian is known for its flexible cruising style. Their freestyle dining options allow you to enjoy a meal at your convenience, making for an easygoing cruising experience. - MSC Cruises
MSC has a fleet of 23 ships, with MSC Virtuosa offering itineraries to the Azores. Departures usually happen from Fort de France or Southampton. MSC is celebrated for its family-friendly atmosphere, pairing exciting activities with diverse dining options and entertainment for all ages. - Princess Cruises
Princess has 17 ships, six of which head to the Azores, including Sky Princess and Coral Princess. Common departure ports include Fort Lauderdale or Southampton, and the cruise line is known for its exceptional service and engaging onboard activities tailored to all tastes. - Cunard Line
Cunard operates a fleet of 4 ships, with Queen Victoria and Queen Anne making the journey to the Azores from ports like Southampton or Hamburg. Known for elegance and opulence, Cunard’s cruises offer refined dining experiences and luxurious amenities throughout your voyage. - P&O Cruises
P&O Cruises has a fleet of 7 ships, with Ventura and Aurora frequently sailing to the Azores. The main departure ports are Southampton or Bridgetown. P&O Cruises is famous for blending British traditions with unforgettable seafaring experiences, offering a charming atmosphere onboard.
Luxury and Small Ship Options
- Regent Seven Seas Cruises
Regent’s six-ship fleet includes four vessels that sail to the Azores, particularly Seven Seas Splendor and Seven Seas Mariner. Departures typically happen from Miami or Athens, and Regent is renowned for its all-inclusive luxury offerings, ensuring every detail of your experience is catered for, from excursions to gourmet dining. - Oceania Cruises
With a fleet of 8 ships, Oceania has four that visit the Azores, including Insignia and Allura. Most cruises depart from Miami, and Oceania focuses on fine dining and culturally immersive itineraries that allow guests to fully embrace the local environment at each port. - Seabourn
Seabourn’s six ship fleet includes the stunning Seabourn Encore that visits the Azores, typically departing from Miami or Long Beach. Known for its ultra-luxurious approach to cruising, Seabourn ensures personalised service that caters to your every need, providing a truly indulgent travel experience. - Azamara Cruises
With four ships, Azamara has three vessels cruising to the Azores, with Azamara Journey and Azamara Quest leading the way. These ships commonly depart from Miami or Lisbon, and Azamara focuses on meaningful travel experiences, providing longer stays at port, allowing you to fully explore and savour each destination. - Explora Journeys
New to the scene, Explora features two ships offering itineraries to the Azores: EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II. Departing mainly from Miami, this cruise line focuses on creating meaningful experiences, allowing guests to deeply engage with the cultures and environments they visit.
Alternative Regions to Consider for Your Cruise
If the Azores have captured your imagination, consider these alternative regions for your next cruising adventure:
- Canary Islands: With their year-round mild climate and stunning landscapes, the Canary Islands offer a unique blend of beautiful beaches, volcanic terrain, and rich culture. This region is perfect for sun-seekers and nature lovers alike!
- Algarve, Portugal: Known for its stunning coastline and charming towns, the Algarve features lovely beaches, scenic cliffs, and delightful local cuisine. The warm weather makes it a great choice for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Madeira: Renowned for its lush landscapes and floral gardens, Madeira is an excellent destination for those looking to reconnect with nature. Explore the island’s levadas (irrigation channels) and discover its rich botanical diversity!
- Caribbean: For sun-soaked beaches and vibrant cultures, the Caribbean is a fantastic alternative offering stunning coral reefs, friendly island vibes, and ample opportunities for water sports and adventure.
- Baltic Sea: For those interested in history and charming cities, the Baltic Sea offers fascinating destinations like St. Petersburg and Tallinn. Experience a mix of cultural richness and stunning natural landscapes!
The Azores await! Book your unforgettable cruise adventure with CruiseAway today and immerse yourself in the wonder of these beautiful islands!
Harbours for Azores
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