Azores Cruises

The Azores, a stunning archipelago situated in the mid-Atlantic Ocean, comprises nine volcanic islands bursting with natural beauty, lush landscapes, and vibrant culture. Breathtaking cliffs, tranquil lakes, and lush gardens await your discovery. Did you know that the Azores is known as the “Hawaii of Europe” due to its dramatic volcanic formations and rich biodiversity? With a cruise, you can explore these islands comfortably, enjoying the leisurely pace of sea travel while taking in some of the most picturesque landscapes Europe has to offer. Whether you’re admiring the famous Sete Cidades lakes or indulging in local delicacies such as fresh seafood, a cruise to the Azores is sure to be memorable!

Major Cruise Lines Offering Adventures to the Azores

• Norwegian Cruise Line: With a fleet of 20 ships, 13 Norwegian Cruise Line vessels journey to the Azores, including the Norwegian Sky and Norwegian Epic. Known for their onboard entertainment and varied dining options, these ships provide cruisers with thrilling experiences at sea. Most sailings depart from vibrant ports like Lisbon or Miami, ensuring easy access to the enchanting Azores islands.
• Princess Cruises: With a fleet size of 17, Princess Cruises has 6 ships that offer itineraries to the Azores. The Sky Princess and Majestic Princess are worth mentioning for their impressive range of amenities and outstanding service. Cruises most commonly set sail from Fort Lauderdale or Southampton, giving locals and international travellers easy options to reach the Azores.
• MSC Cruises: This cruise line, boasting a total of 23 ships, offers itineraries to the Azores with the MSC Virtuosa. While it may not have a large number of offerings, the ship is known for its modern design and extensive onboard entertainment options. Departures typically occur from Fort de France or Southampton, allowing you to embark on a unique adventure.
• Cunard: With 4 ships in its fleet, Cunard features 2 vessels sailing to the Azores: Queen Victoria and Queen Anne. Known for their elegant onboard atmosphere and traditional afternoon tea service, Cunard offers a luxurious cruising experience. Cruises usually depart from Southampton or Hamburg, letting travellers enjoy the opulence even before reaching the Azores.
• Royal Caribbean Cruises: With a large fleet of 28 ships, Royal Caribbean has 5 ships offering itineraries to the Azores. The Explorer of the Seas and Odyssey of the Seas stand out with their diverse activities and attractions onboard. Most cruises depart from Miami or Barcelona, allowing you to get on your way to explore the stunning archipelago!

Luxury and Small Ship Cruise Lines to the Azores

• Oceania Cruises: With 8 ships in their fleet, Oceania has 4 that visit the Azores, including Allura and Vista. Renowned for their exquisite fine dining and relaxed, upscale atmosphere, Oceania’s ships are perfect for cruisers seeking a touch of luxury. Departures often occur from Miami or Lisbon, ensuring an elegant start to your vacation.
• Seabourn: This luxury cruise line has a fleet of 6, with 1 ship—Seabourn Encore—providing an exclusive itinerary to the Azores. With all-suite accommodations and high staff-to-guest ratios, this cruise line is tailored to discerning travellers. Most cruises depart from Miami, making it easy to augment your travels.
• Azamara Cruises: Featuring a fleet of 4 ships, Azamara has 2 ships, Azamara Journey and Azamara Onward, that cruise to the Azores. Azamara is known for its immersive land experiences and longer stays in ports, allowing you to fully explore. Departures most often happen from Lisbon or Miami, ensuring accessibility for your trip.

Top Harbours to Explore in the Azores

• Ponta Delgada, São Miguel: This is the main gateway to the Azores and rich in history. Stroll along the waterfront and visit the São José da Ponta Delgada where you can learn about the island’s past. Don’t miss the stunning botanical garden, Jardim António Borges, a tranquil spot ideal for a leisurely walk.
• Horta, Faial: Famous for its marina and artistic charm, Horta is a great place to explore local galleries, enjoy waterfront dining, and admire stunning views of Mount Pico. Take the opportunity to check out the famous Peter Café & Sport, where sailors from all over the world stop in for a drink.
• Angra do Heroísmo, Terceira: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this city offers beautiful streets with unique architecture. The Museu de Angra do Heroísmo provides insights into the island’s maritime history. Not to forget, the surrounding landscapes are perfect for hiking and exploring volcanic craters.
• Santa Maria: Known for its pristine beaches and unique geology, this island is perfect for lounging on Praia Formosa or visiting the historic village of Vila do Porto. Look for traditional windmills and experience the local culture through festivities and events.
• São Jorge: Renowned for its lush landscapes and dramatic cliffs, this island offers breathtaking hiking trails. Visit the charming town of Velas, take in the stunning coastal views, and sample the island’s famous queijo de São Jorge (cheese) at local dairies.

Best Times to Cruise to the Azores

The Azores enjoys a mild climate year-round, making it a great year-round destination. For those looking to travel from January to March, you can expect temperatures to range from 10°C to 16°C, perfect for enjoying the natural beauty without the summer crowds. April to June brings warmer weather with temperatures averaging around 12°C to 24°C—a great time for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. From July to September, you’ll enjoy the warmest weather ranging from 16°C to 28°C, ideal for beach days and various water activities. Finally, October to December sees temperatures beginning to cool down, with averages of 13°C to 22°C, allowing for comfortable exploration as you enjoy the refreshing autumn scenery.

The Cost of a Cruise to the Azores

When planning your cruise to the Azores, expect prices for a one-week voyage to range from $1,500 to $3,000 AUD, depending on the cruise line and cabin types. For those looking for a luxurious experience, cruises may range from $3,500 to $7,000 AUD, allowing you to enjoy premium options and amenities throughout your journey.

As for meals, you can expect to pay between $15 and $30 AUD for local dining rich in flavour, while beverages typically cost around $4 to $10 AUD for local wines or craft beers, making it easy to enjoy the culinary delights the island offers!

Alternative Regions to Consider for Your Next Cruise

If a cruise to the Azores piques your interest, consider exploring these regions as well:

• Madeira – This stunning Portuguese archipelago is known for its beautiful landscapes, lush gardens, and hiking trails. With a mild climate and rich culture, it’s a lovely draw for island-hoppers.
• Canary Islands – Known for their unique volcanic landscapes and diverse ecosystems, the Canary Islands offer a fantastic mix of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences.
• Portugal – Experience vibrant cities like Lisbon and Porto, rich in history and culture. Portugal offers gastronomic delights and stunning architecture that can enhance any trip.
• Western Mediterranean – Featuring stunning coastal cities and rich cultures, the Western Mediterranean combines relaxation with a wealth of history and pleasurable dining experiences.
• Cape Verde – An archipelago with beautiful beaches and a rich history, Cape Verde is an emerging destination filled with vibrant culture, blending African and Portuguese influences.

Ready to embark on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure? With Cruise1st, booking your unforgettable cruise holiday to the Azores is easier than ever. Enjoy unique landscapes, warm hospitality, and incredible experiences tailored to your preferences!