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Colorful shores of the Azores

Islands of the Azores: Basalt Peaks to Volcanic Vineyards

Portugal roundtrip - Example 9 Day Cruise aboard National Geographic Endurance
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Set sail on a 9-day cruise through the Islands of the Azores: Basalt peaks to volcanic vineyards aboard the National Geographic Endurance. Encounter the defining Ponta do Pico, exploring a whaling village and a UNESCO-listed wine region. Join a researcher to spot cetaceans. Explore Faial's transformed landscape post-1957 volcanic eruption. Experience the unique fado music. Visit São Jorge, hike through cliffs and fajãs, and explore saltwater lagoons. Graciosa, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, offers natural wonders and historic villages. Terceira, settled in 1450, boasts coastal views and lava tube exploration. Enjoy whale watching and explore Santa Maria's historical significance. Discover Furnas Valley's hot springs and savor a traditional Azorean dish. Conclude the journey at Sete Cidades before departing.
Explore the beautiful AzoresExplore the beautiful AzoresTypical streets found in the Azores island chainBoats line the harbor in the AzoresA hiker overlooks the cliffs on the ocean.Colorful shores of the Azores
Highlights
  • Explore Ponta do Pico, the Atlantic Ridge's tallest dormant volcano
  • Witness the dramatic landscape change after the 1957 volcano eruption in Faial
  • Explore Graciosa's natural monument, Caldeira da Graciosa and Praia village
  • Join a local whale guide in Terceira for a whale-watching expedition
Places Visited
  • Europe
  • Portugal
  • Azores
  • European Union
  • Faial
  • Graciosa Island
  • Santa Maria
  • Sao Miguel
  • Vila do Porto
Activity Level: Variable
Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: São Miguel, Azores, Portugal | Embark

Arrive on the island of São Miguel in the Azores and embark on the National Geographic Endurance.

Day 2: Pico

The tallest mountain on the Atlantic Ridge, the long-dormant Ponta do Pico, is a defining feature of this beautiful island whose claims to fame are whaling history and wine. Visit the once-booming former whaling village Lajes do Pico and learn about the importance of the whaling industry to these islands at the Whalers’ Museum. Then travel to the wine region, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where the moonscape terrain left by the lava flows has been painstakingly converted to vineyards. See the unlikely lava stone corrals that protect the precious vines before ending the day with a tasting of these very special wines.  

Day 3: Faial

More than 20 types of cetaceans can be spotted in the waters surrounding the Azores, and today, a researcher from the biology department of Azores University joins in the search for these gentle giants in the channel north of Pico and Horta. Details of the university’s ongoing studies will be shared as the sea is scanned. Once ashore on the island of Faial, head to Capelinhos, and see how dramatically the landscape changed when its volcano erupted in 1957. Farms and villages were covered with ash, which added nearly an extra mile of land to the island. Later, stroll in the marina, visit the excellent scrimshaw museum, and raise a glass at Peter Café Sport, a legendary pub where sea adventurers historically dropped off their mail. This evening enjoy a very special musical performance of achingly beautiful fado. The genre may trace its roots to mainland Portugal, but the islands have made it their own.

Day 4: São Jorge

This morning visit São Jorge, formed by volcanic fissures. An impressive mix of imposing sea cliffs and fajãs—coastal plateaus formed from lava flows—the island has fertile soil that supports picturesque grasslands and farms. On trails that crisscross the ridge and beaches, hike to Caldeira de Santo Cristo Lake, known for its clams; visit the small villages perched on the fajãs; explore the coffee and tea plantations; and taste world-renowned São Jorge cheese. Be on deck with your binoculars this afternoon as you sail around the tip of the island, passing cliffs with nesting sea birds and looking for Risso’s dolphins and whales. Go ashore by Zodiac to explore the secluded saltwater lagoons of Fajã dos Cubres and Fajã de Santo Cristo, “Wetlands of International Importance.” 

Day 5: Graciosa

Aptly named, this “gracious” island has been designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve for the balance its inhabitants have achieved between the preservation of the geography and sustainable human development. Travel through a beautiful patchwork of farmland and vineyards dotted with windmills en route to the ancient village of Santa Cruz. At the natural monument Caldeira da Graciosa, see Furna do Enxofre, a unique lava cave and underground lake. Later, stroll through the village of Praia, enjoy the sweet pastry queijada da Graciosa, and soak up the tranquility of this quiet harbor. Weather permitting, explore the islet Ilhéu da Praia in Zodiacs and kayaks before ending the day with a presentation by a local historian who will set the stage for your visit to Terceira.

Day 6: Terceira

First settled by Portuguese navigators around 1450, Terceira became a popular port of call for merchant ships and the economic and religious center of the Azores. Wind along the coastline and explore historic villages like Porto Judeu, a small fishing community; Sao Sebastiao, which has a notable 15th-century parish church; and Altares, with its quaint whitewashed houses capped with traditional chimneys and painted cones. Upland at Algar do Carvao, be amazed by a huge lava tube adorned with stalactites and stalagmites, and later stroll the streets of Praia da Vitoria. Or, take a walking tour with local guides to see the forts, palaces, churches, museums, and gardens of Angra do Heroismo. Step back in time to this 15th-century UNESCO World Heritage site and see firsthand the indelible mark left by the ancient explorers, conquerors, and religious leaders.

Day 7: Vila Do Porto, Santa Maria

Today, a local whale guide joins the group, sharing centuries of expertise on a morning whale-watching expedition as participants take to the waters in search of the islands’ many cetaceans. In the afternoon, there's an ashore visit at Santa Maria, historically significant as the first landfall of Christopher Columbus on his return from the Americas in 1493. A statue of the explorer is visible in the village of Anjos, and participants can admire breathtaking vistas while traveling along the coast. Those opting to hike the Pico Alto-Baía dos Anjos trail will journey from the highest point on the island to the sea to observe marine birds in their azure surroundings.

Day 8: São Miguel

Today, explore the Furnas Valley and its famed hot springs, hiking the trails or perhaps visiting a tea plantation or the lovely garden of Terra Nostra. Sample a typical Azorean dish for lunch with the option to prepare it with a local chef. Naturally cooked underground from the heat of volcanic activity, cozido is a dish made with a variety of meats and vegetables. Those who want a hands-on experience may join a local chef to visit the market for fresh ingredients, prepare, and bury the creation. Explore the valley while the thermal heat cooks your meal and then enjoy the fruits of your labor. 

Day 9: São Miguel | Disembark

  • 1 Lunch
This morning, disembark and travel to Sete Cidades, a lovely village set amongst green and blue lakes. Explore the lakes and village and conclude the expedition with a traditional Azorean lunch before transferring to the airport and homebound flights.

Ship/Hotel

National Geographic Endurance

Bar
Dining Room
Reception area

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

Per person starting at
$11,048 2-3 travelers
Cabin
Category 1
Located on the Fore Deck. 183 square ft room with two large windows, Alcove seating, Relax chair, private bathroom, tv, Wi-Fi and hair dryers
Cabin
Category 2
Located on the Fore Deck. 205 square ft. room with two large windows, Alcove seating, Relax chair, private bathroom, tv, Wi-Fi and hair dryers.
Cabin
Category 3
Located on the Main Deck. 205 square ft. suite with balcony, sofa, private bathroom, tv, Wi-Fi and hair dryers
Cabin
Category 4
Located on the Lounge Deck. 205 square ft. suite with balcony, sofa, private bathroom, tv, Wi-Fi and hair dryers
Cabin
Category 5
Located on the Bridge Deck. 205 square ft. suite with balcony, sofa, private bathroom, tv, Wi-Fi and hair dryers
Cabin
Category 6
Located on the Bridge Deck. 344 square ft suite with large balcony, sofa bed, private bathroom, tv, Wi-Fi and hair dryers
Cabin
Category 7
Located on the Bridge Deck. 430 square ft. suite with large balcony, sofa bed, bathtub, walk-in closet, private bathroom, tv, Wi-Fi and hair dryers
Cabin
Category A Solo
Located on the Main Deck. 140 square ft. suite with balcony, sofa, private bathroom, tv, Wi-Fi and hair dryers
Cabin
Category B Solo
Located on the Lounge Deck. 140 square ft. suite with balcony, sofa, private bathroom, tv, Wi-Fi and hair dryers

Notes


Included
  • 7 Breakfasts, 9 Lunches, 8 Dinners
  • 8 Nights Accommodations
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • Assistance by the onboard National Geographic Photography Expert
  • Access to the OM System Photo Gear Locker with the latest gear to try out on loan (aboard Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic fleet) 
  • Beer, wine, cocktails, and spirits are available aboard the ship. Additionally, a selection of super premium wines and liquors is offered for purchase.
  • Crew gratuities
  • Complimentary Starlink-enabled Wi-Fi internet is available to all guests aboard Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic fleet, enabling email, messaging, and social media.
  • Park and site entrance fees, special access permits, and port taxes
  • Excursions, hotels, and airport transfers, as indicated in the itinerary 
  • Selection of exploration tools curated to your destination, such as Zodiacs and glass-bottom boats, stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, snorkeling equipment (including wetsuits, masks, and fins), and other state-of-the-art gear
  • Guidance and company of leading expedition staff
  • All meals as indicated in the itinerary, both aboard and onshore. Meals are inspired by regional cuisine and locally sourced where possible
  • Hors d’oeuvres inspired by regional cuisine and locally sourced where possible
  • 24-hour access to snacks, premium coffees and teas, non-alcoholic beverages, and filtered water
  • Presentations on your destination by expedition staff and expert guest speakers
  • Complimentary reusable water bottle to fill at onboard water refill stations
  • The services of a physician, physician’s assistant, nurse practitioner, or paramedic  where available
  • Morning stretch classes and 24-hour access to exercise equipment where available
  • 24-hour access to lounges, observation decks, library stocked with regionally relevant literature, and other shared spaces 
  • Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic certified photo instructor
Excluded
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Additional excursions during free time
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Laundry, spa treatments, scuba diving, Wi-Fi and phone services (except when indicated as included)
  • We strongly recommend our guests to take Travel Protection Plan. A Plan with comprehensive coverage to protect you from cancellation fees, costs incurred due to trip delays/interruption, damaged or lost baggage, medical assistance, and evacuation during your travels
  • Airfare (except flights when indicated as included), pre- and post-expedition extensions, additional hotel nights, and private transfers (except when indicated as included)
  • Travel protection plans and passport, visa, and immigration fees 
  • Enhanced and premium Wi-Fi plans, which may enable video chat, web browsing, and streaming (connectivity permitting)

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Our guide and driver were very good with their knowledge and were very helpful with our questions. It was a very pleasant visit that would have been impossible to do on our own. Hotels and restaurants were fantastic. The special places we got to go to, like the kitchens, were great. Enjoyed the entire trip!
Meyer Smolen

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