The Azores are a group of stunning volcanic islands controlled by Portugal in the mid-Atlantic; they are 760 miles off the coast of mainland Portugal. The Azores is a popular stop on an Atlantic crossing or is a wonderful holiday sailing destination with a favourable climate all year round and consistent winds. There are opportunities to go ashore and enjoy the fresh produce from picturesque fishing villages, or go on a hike to enjoy the views over these lush islands with their dramatic landscapes.
There are nine unspoilt islands to visit and you can choose to start from one of the three fantastic islands of Faial, Sao Miguel or Terceira. Whichever option you choose there are so many things to see and you may spot whales, dolphins and turtles along the way. The winds tend to be more predictable during the Summer, so between May and October is the preferred season for sailing. Depending on where you depart from there are several options for one or two week itineraries, please let us know your requirements and we can suggest different options for you. Here is an example of a one week itinerary starting from Horta:
HORTA
Horta is on the island of Faial and is a short distance from the airport so you will have plenty of time to get comfortable aboard your chosen yacht when you arrive.
Velas Marina is surrounded by towering cliffs which provide excellent shelter and dramatic scenery during your stay. Velas and Calheta are beautiful towns to visit and on the other side of the small island there are amazing volcanic formations to visit known as ‘fajas’ at the base of cliffs. In Santo Cristo a remarkable ring-shaped lagoon formed by lava flows is now a very popular surfing spot if you want to try out the Atlantic breaks.
This longer leg should give you the best opportunity to spot marine life, hopefully you will get a few dolphins swimming alongside with you, or even spot a whale.....
This historical city is a UNESCO World Heritage site, explore the streets and investigate the interesting architecture if you need to stretch your legs. Not too far outside the city there are the wonderful Algar do Carvão caves, they have some interesting stalagmite and stalactite formations to discover.
Another long leg will give you another opportunity to test your sailing skills and experience the wind in your hair.
If you want to visit some attractions there is the Whalemen's Museum, and the Pico Island Vineyard Culture is another World Heritage Site. There is again spectacular scenery on Pico, including the high lagoons in Capitao and Caiado.
When you return to Horta after your adventure if you have not seen enough already there is the Caldeira Volcano. The crater is 400m wide and at an altitude of 2000m there are amazing almost lunar landscapes and far-reaching views out to the Atlantic Ocean.
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