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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.”
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.
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.
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.
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.
Apologies for the inconvenience. Prices for not yet published. Below per person rate based on previous season. Contact us to confirm upcoming season pricing.
Prices for are estimated based on inflation. Contact us to confirm pricing and availability for your desired departure date.
$11,0482-3 travelers
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
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.
Category 3
Located on the Main Deck. 205 square ft. suite with balcony, sofa, private bathroom, tv, Wi-Fi and hair dryers
Category 4
Located on the Lounge Deck. 205 square ft. suite with balcony, sofa, private bathroom, tv, Wi-Fi and hair dryers
Category 5
Located on the Bridge Deck. 205 square ft. suite with balcony, sofa, private bathroom, tv, Wi-Fi and hair dryers
Category 6
Located on the Bridge Deck. 344 square ft suite with large balcony, sofa bed, private bathroom, tv, Wi-Fi and hair dryers
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
Category A Solo
Located on the Main Deck. 140 square ft. suite with balcony, sofa, private bathroom, tv, Wi-Fi and hair dryers
Category B Solo
Located on the Lounge Deck. 140 square ft. suite with balcony, sofa, private bathroom, tv, Wi-Fi and hair dryers
Initial deposit is 15% of cabin fare and may vary by program, and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card.
Final payment is due 130 days prior to departure by Visa, Mastercard, Discover, AmEx, or check. All final payments by credit card may be subject to a surcharge and a maximum of $20,000 charge
For full cancellation policy details, please contact us for a quote.
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
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)
The trip might have been the absolute best of our lifetime (thus far). We particularly want to commend our guide Peter in the Guilin area-he was so incredibly attentive, energetic, enthusiastic-and absolutely dedicated to ensuring that our meals were 100% vegetarian.
Adventure Life went above and beyond to care for all our travel needs!!! From the flights, to the accommodations, the tours, the tour guides, the transfers, the scheduling, everything was top notch and our minds were blown away!! It was so nice to be able to travel to another country that we’d never been to before and have every detail laid out for us!! No stress, no searching where to go, what to do, fighting with tourist crowds, getting rental cars, etc…..,it was all done for us, very organized and worth every penny!! We will definitely use Adventure Life for our future travel plans!!! A+++
Becky Light
4 months ago
Claudia and Ghezzel are extremely professional, courteous, patient and knowledgeable. We booked a cruise with Claudia but within 24 hrs we wanted to switch to another cruise, fortunately with the same company. The transition was executed flawlessly including reserving the cabins we wanted. Ghezzel was working in the background and picked up when Claudia left for
vacation. There was no difference in the great service. I'd give the team 10 stars if it was possible.
Bruce D.
6 months ago
Sandra was wonderful, very helpful and planned a beautiful fun-packed itinerary that we are very excited to do!!
Becky Light
6 months ago
Adventure Life couldn’t have provided a better travel experience, from the start of planning through the entire trip itself. The agents were very helpful and quickly responsive to our questions and needs. We were well taken care of and the trip was smooth sailing, both literally and figuratively. The cruise line, the hotel, and the extra excursions that Adventure Life provided were superb and without flaws. The price was reasonable when we compared the planned trip to what was offered by others. We would highly recommend both Adventure Life and Emerald Cruise Line to anyone interested in an enjoyable, relaxing, and informative travel experience.
Julie Mabel
7 months ago
Cheska is a great asset for your company she is very knowledgeable and pleasant to work with
