Day 1: São Miguel

In Ponta Delgada, we board our expedition ship- the ideal way to reach all of these remote islands. Sail at 6pm.

Day 2: Graciosa

This island takes us back in time - mule-drawn carts with milk cans, perhaps an old windmill in the distance. We explore Furna do Enxofre - 184 steps down to an underground volcanic cavern and lake. Afternoon Zodiac cruising is around the bird sanctuary islands of Praia or Braixo, home of the Red-Billed Tern and the Grebe.

Day 3: Flores & Corvo

Considered the prettiest of all the islands, it is also of geological interest. On our overland route we see the basalt "organ-pipe" cliffs of Rocha dos Bordões, volcanic craters known as calderas often with beautiful lakes, cascading waterfalls and perhaps old watermills. On the tiny island of Corvo, we set off on a lovely hike to the rim of the volcanic cone, with a view of the vast caldeira and the coastline. The waters around Flores and Corvo are also excellent for whale and dolphin watching - notably Sperm and Fin whales.

Day 4: Faial

In Horta, ocean-crossing yachts gather and sailors leave their mail for those who are sure to follow. After a Zodiac cruise to a beautiful volcanic lagoon, Caldeira do Inferno, we visit Ponta dos Capelinhos. In 1957-58 a series of submarine volcanic eruptions occurred that eventually created new land and devastated the nearby village. The museum tells the geological and human story. Back in Horta we visit the Scrimshaw Museum before returning to the ship.

Day 5: São Jorge & Pico

We Zodiac cruise to places of São Jorge inaccessible by land - the remote Fajãs and bird sanctuary areas. We then steam to São Roque do Pico. We visit Lajido Acros (vineyard) area, a UNESCO site and tour of a wine museum and Furna de Frei Matias near the dramatic cone of Pico mountain, then on to Lajes do Pico on the south coast with an excellent whaling museum. We board the ship to set off in search of whales and dolphins.

Day 6: Terceira

A walking tour of lovely Angra do Heroismo, an UNESCO site, leaves us with the impression of a Mediterranean town. Nearby is Monte Brasil, a volcanic bluff with its fortification, woodland walks and spectacular views.

Day 7: Santa Maria

We spend the morning whale watching off the south coast of São Miguel en route to Santa Maria, the only island not completely volcanic. We plan an afternoon landing at São Lourenço or Maia, with terraced cliffside vineyards and little sandy beaches.

Day 8: São Miguel

We disembark early in the morning for a full day tour - the only tea plantation in Europe, ceramic factory of Lagoa and Furnas village with geysers, thermal waters, a therapeutic pool and beautiful gardens. Lunch is a traditional affair, Cozido nas Caldeiras - cooked volcanically. Passengers disperse late afternoon in Ponta Delgada.

2010 Date

Sails from Ponta Delgada, São Miguel on April 22, returns to Ponta Delgada on April 20. Note: Order of stops may change due to sea conditions.

Price are per person, double occupancy

Twin cabin with private bath: from $3525.00
Mini suite with private bath: $4980.00
Suite (separate bedroom): $5425.00 per person

Includes:

• All meals from dinner the first day through breakfast the last day
• All shore excursions mentioned in the day to day itinerary
• Port taxes

Not included:

• Airfare
• Gratuities to ship's staff

For reservation and information click here to submit a request

You may call us at 800-652-9151 if you reside in the United States. From other countries call 1-209-667-2405