Azores Cruises

The Azores, an archipelago of nine breathtaking volcanic islands, are located in the heart of the Atlantic Ocean and are known for their stunning landscapes, lush greenery, and unique biodiversity. This Portuguese territory is often regarded as Europe‘s best-kept secret, boasting majestic crater lakes, hot springs, and picturesque coastal villages. Fun fact: the Azores are considered one of the best whale-watching spots in the world, with over 20 different species of whales and dolphins spotted in the surrounding waters! A cruise to the Azores offers the perfect opportunity to explore each unique island while enjoying the amenities and luxuries of your cruise ship.

Major Cruise Lines Offering Itineraries to the Azores

• Royal Caribbean Cruises operates a fleet of 29 ships, with 5 featuring itineraries that include the Azores. The Independence of the Seas and Odyssey of the Seas are particularly popular choices due to their exciting onboard activities ranging from surf simulators to rock climbing walls, perfect for adventure seekers. Both ships emphasize family-friendly experiences and offer a variety of dining options. Departures typically occur from Miami or Southampton, making it easy to start your unforgettable experience in the Azores.
• Princess Cruises includes 17 ships, with 4 dedicated to exploring the Azores. The Grand Princess and Enchanted Princess stand out for their engaging entertainment options and inviting dining experiences. The Grand Princess is known for its impressive outdoor movie screen, allowing guests to relax under the stars. Most departures take place from San Juan or Fort Lauderdale, facilitating a smooth journey to the Azores’ stunning natural beauty.
• Norwegian Cruise Line has a fleet size of 20, with 10 focused on itineraries that include the Azores. The Norwegian Escape and Norwegian Joy are especially popular for their diverse family-friendly amenities, including water parks and high-energy entertainment. Most departures usually occur from Miami or Barcelona, opening the door to a delightful Atlantic cruise experience.
• MSC Cruises operates a fleet of 23 ships, with 1 dedicated to itineraries that visit the Azores. The MSC Virtuosa stands out for its elegant design and modern amenities, providing an inviting atmosphere for family and guests. Departures typically occur from Fort de France or Genoa, granting cruisers easy access to the scenic archipelago.
• Cunard features a fleet of 4 ships, with 2 offering itineraries that include the Azores. The Queen Mary 2 and Queen Victoria are known for their luxurious atmosphere and premium service. Cunard is renowned for its formal dining experiences and sophisticated onboard activities. Departures typically take place from Southampton or Hamburg, ensuring convenient embarkation for your journey to the Azores.

Top Luxury and Small Ship Options for the Azores

• Oceania Cruises operates a fleet of 8 ships, with 4 that sail to the Azores. The Nautica and Vista stand out for their luxurious onboard experiences and focus on high-quality cuisine, providing gourmet dining that showcases regional flavours. Departures usually take place from Southampton or Lisbon, facilitating an elegant entry into the captivating Azorean islands.
• Azamara Cruises features a fleet of 4 ships, with 2 that focus on itineraries in the Azores. The Azamara Quest and Azamara Onward are known for their intimate environments and emphasis on locally immersive experiences through late-night port stays. Departures typically occur from Barcelona or Lisbon, enhancing the overall cruising experience in these breathtaking islands.
• Seabourn consists of a fleet of 5 luxury ships, with 1 dedicated to itineraries that include the Azores. The Seabourn Ovation provides a top-tier experience, offering all-inclusive luxury service and gourmet dining. Departures are most commonly from Barcelona or Lisbon, enhancing an elegant launch into exploring these stunning landscapes.
• Explora Journeys has a fleet of 2 ships, both focusing on enchanting itineraries that explore the Azores. The EXPLORA I and II are known for their luxurious design and focus on wellness and sustainable practices, ensuring a soothing journey for all guests. Departures usually occur from Lisbon or Miami, promising a smooth transition into your exploration of the challenging Azorean archipelago.
• Fred Olsen includes a fleet of 3 ships, with 1 dedicated to the Azores. The Bolette is loved for its personal, traditional cruising experience and knowledgeable onboard staff. Departures typically happen from Liverpool or Southampton, ensuring easy access for UK travellers eager to explore the stunning islands of the Azores.

Top Harbours to Explore in the Azores

• Ponta Delgada – The capital of São Miguel is a beautiful port city featuring colourful architecture and a rich cultural backdrop. Wander in the historic city centre to visit sites like the Portas da Cidade (City Gates) and the beautiful Igreja Matriz de São Sebastião. Local markets offer fresh produce and regional delicacies, including delicious custard tarts known as “Queijadas.”
• Horta – Located on Faial Island, Horta is well-known for its marina, often frequented by yachts and adventure-seekers. Enjoy the view of the iconic Pico Mountain in the distance or take leisurely walks along the waterfront promenade. The famous Peter Café Sport is perfect for tasting local drinks or catching up with fellow travellers.
• Angra do Heroísmo – A UNESCO World Heritage Site located on Terceira Island, this charming town features cobblestone streets and beautiful colonial architecture. Visit the stunning Angra do Heroísmo Cathedral or explore the nearby Algar do Carvão, a stunning volcanic cave. Sample local specialties such as roasted lamb at a nearby restaurant.
• Ribeira Grande – This vibrant city on São Miguel is known for its beautiful landscapes and cultural destinations. Visit the local churches or perched miradouros (viewpoints) for stunning views of the island. Make sure to check out the stunning Caldeira Velha, a natural hot spring that offers a relaxing retreat.
• São Jorge Island – Known for its spectacular landscapes, São Jorge Island features stunning cliffs that lead to beautiful beaches. Explore local cheese farms to sample “Queijo de São Jorge,” a famous local cheese. Hiking enthusiasts will enjoy the lush walking trails that offer breathtaking views of the ocean and surrounding islands.

The Best Times to Cruise to the Azores

The Azores enjoy a mild climate year-round, making it an excellent cruise destination regardless of the season. From January to March, temperatures average between 10°C and 15°C, providing pleasant conditions for exploring the islands without dense tourist crowds. Spring (April to June) boasts mild temperatures around 14°C to 20°C as flowers begin to bloom, ideal for outdoor adventures. Summer (July to September) offers comfortable warmth ranging from 21°C to 25°C, making it the perfect season for hiking and water activities. Autumn (October to December) cools down slightly to around 15°C to 20°C; this is a fantastic time to visit for those seeking a quieter experience while enjoying the island’s natural beauty.

Cost of Cruising to the Azores

A typical one-week cruise to the Azores generally ranges from £800 to £1,500, with prices varying based on the cruise line and type of accommodation. Luxury cruises usually start from approximately £3,200, with prices increasing based on amenities and service levels. Dining on the islands is reasonably affordable, with meals costing about £10 to £20 at local restaurants, while drinks typically range from £2 to £7, making it easy to enjoy the delectable flavors of the Azorean cuisine throughout your stay.

The stunning landscapes, rich tradition, and warm hospitality of the Azores await your exploration. Now is the perfect opportunity to book your cruise holiday through Cruise1st and embark on an unforgettable journey to this captivating destination!