• Need help? 1-888-751-7804 1-888-751-7804
  • Let Us Call You CALL ME
  • Drink Packages
  • Flights by Celebrity℠
  • Hotels by Celebrity
  • Manage Reservation
  • Shore Excursions
  • Upgrade with MoveUp

cruises azores islands

  • My Tier and Points
  • Join Captain's Club

Already booked? Sign in or create an account

  • South Korea
  • New Zealand
  • Grand Cayman
  • St. Maarten
  • U.S Virgin Islands
  • New England & Canada
  • Pacific Coast
  • Antarctic Ocean
  • Panama Canal
  • Transatlantic
  • Transpacific
  • Cruise Ports (+300)
  • Mediterranean
  • Perfect Day at CocoCay
  • All Inclusive
  • Bucket List Cruises
  • Cruise & Land Package
  • Groups & Events
  • New Cruises
  • Popular Cruises
  • Specialty Cruises
  • Destination Highlights
  • Group Excursions
  • Private Journeys
  • Shore Excursions Overview
  • Small Group Discoveries

CARIBBEAN ESCAPES & WEEKEND CRUISES

  • 360° Virtual Tours
  • Celebrity Apex®
  • Celebrity Ascent℠ NEW
  • Celebrity Beyond℠
  • Celebrity Constellation®
  • Celebrity Edge®
  • Celebrity Eclipse®
  • Celebrity Equinox®
  • Celebrity Infinity®
  • Celebrity Millennium®
  • Celebrity Reflection®
  • Celebrity Silhouette®
  • Celebrity Solstice®
  • Celebrity Summit®
  • Celebrity Xcel℠ COMING SOON
  • Explore Edge Series

Galapagos Expedition Series

  • Celebrity Flora®
  • Celebrity Xpedition®
  • Celebrity Xploration®
  • The Retreat
  • All Suites. All Included
  • Iconic Suite
  • Penthouse Suite
  • Reflection Suite
  • Royal Suite
  • Signature Suite
  • Celebrity Suite
  • Aqua Sky Suite
  • Horizon Suite
  • Sunset Suite
  • Concierge Class
  • Galapagos Accommodations
  • Eat & Drink
  • Entertainment
  • Spa & Wellness

Introducing Celebrity Xcel℠

  • Cruising 101
  • Cruise Fare Options
  • Cruise Tips
  • First Time on a Cruise
  • What is Included on a Cruise
  • Future Cruise Vacations
  • Accessible Cruising
  • Captain's Club Rewards
  • Cruise Insurance
  • Flights by Celebrity
  • Healthy at Sea
  • Manage Cruise
  • The Celebrity Store
  • Travel Documents
  • Royal Caribbean International
  • Celebrity Cruises

So much more than a suite

  • 75% Off 2nd Guest + Bonus Savings
  • 3rd and 4th Guests Sail Free
  • Galapagos 20% Savings + Free Flights
  • Resident Rates
  • Exciting Deals
  • View All Offers
  • All Included
  • Cruise & Land Packages
  • Dining Packages
  • Photo Packages
  • Wi-Fi Packages
  • View All Packages
  • Captain's Club Overview
  • Join the Club
  • Loyalty Exclusive Offers
  • Tiers & Benefits
  • Celebrity Cruises Visa Signature® Card

75% Off 2nd Guest + Bonus Savings

Enjoy 75% off your second guest’s cruise fare and get bonus savings of up to $200. Plus, additional guests in your stateroom sail free on select sailings.

Azores Cruises

Tabs view cruises.

  • Transatlantic Overview
  • View Cruises

Luxury Cruises to the Azores

Discover the wild landscapes and rugged green coastline of the awe-inspiring island of Sao Miguel on an Azores cruise. A remote archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean, the Azores are part of Portugal and are a popular destination for nature enthusiasts, hikers, and those seeking rest and relaxation. The diverse topography of these islands provides plenty of outdoor activities, including whale watching, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Hike through volcanic craters, admire picturesque villages, and visit historical sites by the seaside on your visit to Ponta Delgada and its surroundings.

On an Azores cruise, you'll have the opportunity to explore the quaint cobblestone streets and centuries-old Portuguese plazas of Ponta Delgada. Step into the Senhor Santo Cristo dos Milagres church to see its ornate, Baroque-style interior, or explore the beautiful Palace of the Governors, which was once the home of wealthy aristocrats. For sweeping views of Ponta Delgada and the Atlantic Ocean, take a cable car ride up to Monte Brasil. Uncover centuries of prized Portuguese culture and rich history on a luxury cruise to the Azores with Celebrity.

Azores Cruise Highlights

Awe-inspiring architecture.

Ponta Delgada's architecture represents many layers of Azorean maritime history and culture through its churches, historic homes, and squares. Walk through the plaza at the iconic Portas da Cidade (City Gates), a symbolic entrance to Ponta Delgada dating back to the 18th century. Explore the Parish Church of Sao Sebastiao with its beautiful tiled exterior, created in the baroque style. Then stroll along Rua de Santa Ana to see some of the oldest homes in Ponta Delgada.

Dramatic Nature

Soak in the Azores’ magnificent landscape at sites like the natural hot springs at Furnas, where you can relax in the therapeutic waters and even try food cooked in the thermal vapors. Hike the Caldeira das Sete Cidades, a volcanic crater that’s home to two lakes—one blue and one green. Pay a visit to the Gorreana Tea Plantation, the only tea farm in Europe, and learn about the tea-making process while enjoying views of the radiant, deep green valley below.

Azorean Culture

Due to their remote Atlantic location, far from mainland Portugal, and history as a stopping point for ships traveling between Europe and the Americas, the islands of the Azores have developed a unique culture. Make sure to try traditional local dishes like Cozido das Furnas, a meat and vegetable dish slow-cooked in the steam of a volcanic crater, and Queijadas da Vila, a cheesecake tart.

Featured Azores Cruise Port

Ponta Delgada, Azores

Azores Cruise Itineraries

Sail to the remote Atlantic archipelago of the Azores on one of these 11- to 16-night itineraries. Cruises depart from Barcelona, Southampton, Rome, and Fort Lauderdale on exciting transatlantic itineraries that will take you to Ponta Delgada and many popular ports in Western Europe, as well as Bermuda. 

Itineraries

Why cruise to the azores with celebrity cruises.

A cruise to the Azores brings you the best of Portugal’s Atlantic island culture, exciting excursions, and lush volcanic landscapes. While on board, enjoy Celebrity's award-winning service as you sip cocktails at the Sunset Bar, or lunch al fresco at the Mast Grill. Discover pure bliss and relaxation with a wide range of treatments in The Spa, and classes such as guided meditation and yoga. Evenings, meanwhile, are a time for glittering entertainment, dancing, and live music performances.

Your Azores cruise will sail to Ponta Delgada, a culturally-rich city full of historic Portuguese churches, baroque architecture, and dramatic natural surroundings. Walk the charming cobblestone streets to find small, family-run shops, traditional restaurants, and picturesque plazas. Visit the Sete Cidades crater for breathtaking views of the twin lakes, and sit on a quiet beach to watch the waves crash against the volcanic cliffs. With so much to see and do, a luxury cruise to the Azores with Celebrity is an experience you'll never forget.

View All Cruises to Azores

You might also like.

Cruises from Southampton

Cruises to Bruges

Paris Cruises

Amsterdam Cruises

Cruises to Cartagena, Spain

When Is the Best Time to Visit the Azores?

Cruises to Valencia, Spain

Rome Cruises

Italy Cruises

Cruises to France

Cruises from Spain

Cruises from Florida to Europe

April Cruises

October Cruises

What Is a Transatlantic Cruise?

Unique Places to Visit in Europe

Best Lakes in Europe

Insider's Guide to Ponta Delgada

The Ultimate Azores Food Guide

Previewing: Promo Dashboard Campaigns

JavaScript seems to be disabled in your browser. For the best experience on our site, be sure to turn on Javascript in your browser.

  • Request a quote
  •  Contact
  • Your luxury cruise with PONANT
  • Africa, Middle East & Indian Ocean
  • Atlantic Coast
  • Central America
  • North America
  • Northern Europe & Scandinavia
  • Ocean Voyages
  • Oceania & Pacific Islands
  • South America
  • The Mediterranean
  • Transatlantic
  • Show all destinations
  • See all cruises
  • Loyalty Cruise
  • Gastronomy & Wine
  • Polar Expedition
  • Tropical Expedition
  • Art & Museums
  • Smithsonian Journeys
  • Theatre & Literature
  • The Explorers Club
  • Show all themes
  • Back-to-back offers
  • Free Ocean Voyage
  • No single supplement
  • Flight credit
  • L'AUSTRAL
  • LE LAPÉROUSE
  • LE CHAMPLAIN
  • LE BOUGAINVILLE
  • LE DUMONT-D'URVILLE
  • LE JACQUES-CARTIER
  • LE COMMANDANT CHARCOT
  • Expeditions
  • Life on board
  • A different way to cruise
  • A tailor-made voyage
  • Why choose PONANT ?
  • PONANT benefits
  • Our Pavilions
  • Our 360-degree destinations
  • A more sustainable tourism
  • PONANT Foundation
  • Certifications and distinctions
  • Cruises and destinations

Where would you like to travel with PONANT?

Which period?

What are you looking for?

  • Gastronomy & Wine
  • Art & Museums

The Azores Cruises

Your criteria

Delete all criteria

1,500 kilometres from the Portuguese coast, nine islands spring up out of the Atlantic Ocean. Their name, the Azores , means "around the goshawks": just as poetic as the archipelago's craggy and lush terrain covered with hydrangeas when the weather improves. Visit this corner of paradise to which sailors pay special attention. 

All about cruises The Azores

We're sorry, there are no results matching your search.

You should get more results by changing your search or selecting another destination . You can also request a quote and be inspired by one of our experts.

Need some inspiration? You might like these cruises...

cruises azores islands

Lake Superior – a life-sized expedition

cruises azores islands

Oriental Wonders & Civilisations

cruises azores islands

Malta, Italian shores and Isle of Beauty

cruises azores islands

The great adventure

cruises azores islands

Encounter with the Last Guardians of the North Pole

1 888 400 1082 or contact your travel advisor

Highlights - Azores

The Azores are very like Scotland, with their green pastures, meadows and lakes reminiscent of the Highlands. But the Azores are actually in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. These nine islands enjoy a temperate climate thanks to the Gulf Stream and are among the treasures that have prospered in this vast body of water. Below, we tell you what to do in the Azores .

Highlights - Azores

Essential - Azores

An Atlantic archipelago less often visited than Madeira or the Canaries, the Azores are paradise for nature lovers and those who enjoy calm destinations that aren't too touristy. Here is some useful information to help you prepare for your trip to the Azores .

Essential Azores

Explore Azores

Five sites to visit in the Azores

cruises azores islands

Enjoy a geothermal tour - São Miguel Island

São Miguel is home to the financial capital of the Azores: Ponta Delgada . It has the memorable Portas do Mar leisure area and promenade, the lovely romantic António Borges Garden and São Brás Fort: a reminder of its past as a key stop-off port on Atlantic routes. But São Miguel is also famous for Furnas Valley . With over 20 thermal springs, this area is one of the biggest geothermal towns in the world. It would be impossible to miss out on the Sete Cidades volcanic lakes and Lagoa do Fogo . The views of these lakes with craters edged by fields and lush vegetation are truly striking.

Get a photo of São Lourenço Bay - Santa Maria Island

Get a photo of São Lourenço Bay - Santa Maria Island

81 kilometres south of São Miguel, Santa Maria is known for its hilly terrain and incredible São Lourenço Bay. The bay looks like half a crater and is a sea front unlike any other covered with terrace-grown vines. From afar, they look like they are tumbling into the sea. A photogenic spot! Once on Santa Maria, it's worth taking a detour to the little village of Anjos and the Ermida Senhora dos Anjos Chapel. This is where Christopher Columbus is meant to have attended mass during his return voyage from America.

Hike in the volcanoes - Faial Island

Hike in the volcanoes - Faial Island

Faial may be nicknamed the "Blue Island", but it is still volcanic. There is nothing like a hike to see this for yourself. In the west of the island, the Capelo Peninsula is the starting point for a path that goes around the Cabeço Verde volcanic cone with views of the other cones like Cabeço do Fogo and Morro de Castello Branco. Along the path, the Furna Ruim lava cave (55 metres deep) and the view of Capelinhos Volcano are sure to make an impression. Indeed, the volcano was the last to erupt in the Azores from 1957 to 1958!

Tour Horta - Faial Island

Tour Horta - Faial Island

Having explored Faial's volcanic side, it's time for a tour of its capital, Horta . Now a calm little town, it used to be an important trading post between the 16th and 18th centuries. Caravels and other galleons amassed in its port as they prepared to cross the Atlantic. Everyone knew about Horta: not stopping here brought bad luck to sailors, as its marina indicates. It is covered with frescoes painted by all those who wanted protection during their voyage. The Scrimshaw Museum has a collection of sculptures depicting whaling scenes: a reminder that the Azores were also a key hunting ground in the 19th and start of the 20th century.

Admire the view of the Caldeira - Faial Island

Admire the view of the Caldeira - Faial Island

This must be one of the most bucolic walks in the Azores. With its highest point nearly 1000 metres, the Caldeira is a must-see natural site on Faial. There is a path around it that allows you to see the bottom 365 metres below. With vertical walls covered in short vegetation, it offers a stunning panorama on one side. On the other, the viewpoint on the hill covered with blue hydrangeas (in the right season) and the gentle slope towards the ocean is absolutely amazing.

Get away from it all. Simply that - Graciosa Island

Get away from it all. Simply that - Graciosa Island

Nicknamed the "eighth Canary Island", Graciosa (the "Gracious") is the northernmost island in the central Azores. It is also one of the most unspoilt and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve . Here, the vines and fields are surrounded by low walls made of basalt. This black rock is everywhere: in villages and in nature. Timeworn cliffs, screes, peaks...it contrasts with the fields, the surrounding natural environment and the clear water which, in the sunlight, takes on turquoise hues.

Enjoy a special swim - São Jorge Island

Enjoy a special swim - São Jorge Island

A cliff emerges from the water. This is what São Jorge looks like, being 54 kilometres long, 6.9 kilometres wide and 1000 metres tall. People often feel that the island's slopes — covered with pastures and hydrangeas in the right season — seem to drop straight into the ocean. But what makes São Jorge really amazing is its fajãs : flat expanses of land on the sea front and the cliffside. They are the result of lava flows going into the sea or landslides. They also have natural pools tempting you to swim in an extraordinary natural setting.

Go and see Portugal's highest peak - Pico Island

Go and see Portugal's highest peak - Pico Island

Often hidden in the clouds, Mount Pico appears in all its glory when the mist does clear. This volcanic cone is 120,000 years old and the highest peak in Portugal. It reaches 2351 metres and dominates picturesque landscapes including the expansive vineyards edged by drystone walls which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Access is via a red-earth path. The colour contrasts are striking and hikers are sure to feel fulfilled by their achievement!

cruises azores islands

Unique features

Green and grey. Nature and mineral surroundings. Visitors to Pico don't always initially understand the landscape when they go to the island's vineyards . They contain currais , as the locals call them: low stone walls that protect the vines from sea winds and spray. This method dating back to the 15th century reflects just how ingenious and careful successive generations of growers have been in their work. The landscapes were named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004.

cruises azores islands

Essential phrases

Hello/Good evening: Bom dia / Boa noite Goodbye: Adeus Welcome: Bem-vindo Excuse me/Please: Desculpa-me / por favor Thank you: Muito obrigado Yes/no: Sim / Não How are you?: Como vai você ? Very well, thanks, and you?: Muito bem, obrigado, e você ? My name is...: Chamo me...

cruises azores islands

Fish is abundant in the Azores and is cooked all ways. Whether grilled, in a matelote or a soup, it is always fresh and delicious. The tasty tuna also deserves a special mention. Octopus and seafood are very much appreciated too. As for meat, on São Miguel Island, they make one of the most delicious and unusual dishes: cozido das furnas . This is a kind of stew with pork, cabbage, chicken, veal, sausage, lard, turnip, carrots, potatoes and chilli. Everything is cooked by putting the pot into a hole dug in the ground and covered with earth. Geothermal energy does the rest!

cruises azores islands

Myths and legends

The Azores are among the islands that encourage the wildest of theories about the location of the legendary Atlantis mentioned by Plato in his writings. Some say Madeira, the Azores, the Canaries and Cape Verde are actually the visible summits of this continent submerged during a volcanic eruption. In Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea by Jules Verne, Captain Nemo suggests Atlantis is in the Atlantic Ocean. However, there is no proof these hypotheses are accurate.

cruises azores islands

In the spotlight

Until 1893, the town of Horta on Faial Island was mainly visited by sailors stopping off before crossing the Atlantic Ocean. However, from 1893, it became renowned thanks to the arrival of the first underwater telegraph cable connecting it to Lisbon, then to the United States, until 1969. This played an important role during the Second World War.

cruises azores islands

Book. Stormy Isles traces the life of a young woman aged 20 in the Azores between 1917 and 1919, who is torn between her aristocratic education and feminist aspirations. Through this poetically written portrait, Azores author Vitorino Nemésio gives us insight into life on the archipelago and its magnificent landscapes at the start of the 20th century.

Music. The viola da terra is the typical Azores instrument. It looks like a guitar, except for the two little hearts that replace its cousin's usual rosette. The instrument is associated with saudade: Portuguese music known for its melancholy tunes.

Facts and figures

São Miguel Island is home to the only two European tea plantations: Chá Porto Formoso and Chá Gorreana. The old machinery at the latter attracts visitors and tastings showcase the subtleties of this tea produced in the Atlantic region.

Ponant brochures

Want to find out more about our unique and exceptional destinations?

Alt Image

What will your next trip look like The Azores ?

  • Discover all destinations

The Azores Archipelago Overview

The cultural appeal of an azores cruise, the inviting azores environment, an appetizing look at the azores, experience the azores geography, a historical look at azores travel, island politics of the azores, what to expect from azores’ weather, wildlife wonders of the azores, want to go, top azores travel destinations, why travel with adventure life, recognized by.

cruises azores islands

Cruise Web

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser or activate Google Chrome Frame to improve your experience.

  • Already Booked?
  • My Favorites
  • 1.800.377.9383
  • Email Deals
  • Personal Quote

cruises azores islands

  • Advanced Search

Featured Cruise Deals

  • Featured Cruise Deals

Deals by Destination

  • Deals by Destination

Deals by Cruise Line

  • Deals by Cruise Line

Deals by Departure Port

  • Deals by Departure Port

Last Minute Cruise Deals

Last Minute Cruise Deals

Holiday Cruise Deals

Holiday Cruise Deals

Military Cruise Deals

Military Cruise Deals

Family Cruise Deals

  • Family Cruise Deals

Popular Destinations

Australia/New Zealand

  • Canada / New England

Popular Int'l Departure Ports

Popular Int'l Departure Ports

Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Barcelona, Spain

Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy

Piraeus (Athens), Greece

Reykjavik, Iceland

Southampton, England

Stockholm, Sweden

Sydney, Australia

Vancouver, British Columbia

Venice, Italy

Popular U.S. Departure Ports

Baltimore, Maryland

Boston, Massachusetts

Cape Liberty (Bayonne), New Jersey

Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida

Los Angeles, California

Miami, Florida

New York, New York

Port Canaveral, Florida

San Francisco, California

Seattle, Washington

Popular Lines

Popular Lines

Luxury Lines

Luxury Lines

River Lines

River Lines

All Lines

AmaWaterways

Atlas Ocean Voyages

Avalon Waterways River Cruises

Carnival Cruise Line

Celebrity Cruises

Holland America Line

MSC Cruises

Norwegian Cruise Line

Oceania Cruises

Paul Gauguin Cruises

Princess Cruises

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Royal Caribbean International

Seabourn Cruise Line

Silversea Cruises

Uniworld River Cruises

Viking Expeditions

Viking Ocean Cruises

Viking River Cruises

Windstar Cruises

Land Vacations

Land Vacations

  • Cosmos Tours
  • Globus Journeys
  • Kensington Tours
  • Tauck Tours

All-Inclusive Resorts

Cruising 101

Cruising 101

  • Free Consultation

Why Cruise?

Shore Excursions

Cruising Tips

Future Cruise Credits

Photo Galleries

Specialty Cruises

Specialty Cruises

Group Cruises

Business / Incentive Cruises

Events & Meetings at Sea

Private Charters

Theme Cruises

  • River Cruises

Cruise Tours

Wedding Cruises

Hosted Cruises

Family Cruises

Senior Living at Sea

News Media

News & Media

Press & News

Testimonials

Social Media

Already Booked

Pre-registration

Passports / Visas

Travel Protection

Why Cruise Web

Why Cruise Web?

Our Approach

Low Price Guarantee

Gift Certificates

Need Help

Customer Service

Not sure where to start?

Talk to a travel consultant.

Free quotes. Expert guidance. No booking fees.

Cruise Deals by Destination!

Cruise Deals by Destination!

Cruise Deals by Cruise Line!

Cruise Deals by Cruise Line!

Cruise Deals by Departure Port!

Cruise Deals by Departure Port!

Cruise Web

Cruises from/to Azores Islands, Portugal

Azores islands, portugal cruise port.

  • Sao Miguel Island is the largest of the Islands. It has almost 50,000 inhabitants and its capital, Ponta Delgada, is filled with interesting things to do such as sporting activities. It has sites for racket sports, and water sports such as swimming and kayaking.  
  • Angra do Heroismo, which is the center of Terceira Island, was classified in the International Heritage List of UNESCO. There are many points of interests at the area such as the forts of Sao Joao Baptista and Sao Sebastia, and Vila Nova that are worth visiting.  
  • A visitor to the island can enjoy some of the local cuisines at an affordable price which is convenient. There are multiple restaurants such as Reserva Bar and Rotas da Ilha Verde that cater to the varied tastes and preferences of people when it comes to dishes.  
  • There are many fun things to do at the Azores Islands. The region especially at Ponta Delgada is active even during the night and the music scene is spectacular. In addition, the Azores hosts magnificent festivals such as the Holy Ghost and Sao Miguel festival.

Top 10 Cruises to Azores Islands, Portugal

  • Caribbean Princess 15 NIGHT Transatlantic CRUISE Departing From Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida (May 2024)
  • Caribbean Princess 27 NIGHT Transatlantic CRUISE Departing From Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida (May 2024)
  • Regal Princess 14 NIGHT Transatlantic CRUISE Departing From Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida (Apr 2025)
  • Regal Princess 24 NIGHT Transatlantic CRUISE Departing From Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida (Apr 2025)
  • Sky Princess 28 NIGHT Transatlantic CRUISE Departing From Southampton, England (Nov 2025)
  • Sky Princess 16 NIGHT Transatlantic CRUISE Departing From Southampton, England (Nov 2025)

We Make Vacation Planning Easy

With an overwhelming world of choices, we understand you may need some personal assistance to plan your perfect vacation. From finding the right destination to choosing the best departure date, we're here to help. Plus, our experienced travel consultants have access to exclusive vacation deals to make sure you get the best value for your time and money.

Expert guidance. No booking fees.

Find a cruise.

  • All Cruise Types
  • Popular Cruises
  • Luxury Cruises

Vacation Deals

Destinations & ports.

  • All Destinations

Cruise Lines

  • Popular Cruise Lines
  • Luxury Cruise Lines
  • River Cruise Lines
  • All Cruise Lines
  • All About Cruising
  • Already Booked

Social

Follow our social media and blog for the latest cruise and travel news, including our best vacation deals.

  • Monthly Newsletter
  • Opening Hours:

Mon-Fri 8.30am - 6pm

Saturday 9am - 5pm

Sunday 10am - 4pm

  • Toggle Navigation Menu

Cruise Search

  • All Cruises

Volcanic Islands of the Azores & Madeira

Full Terms & Conditions please click here 

Aerial view of Lagoon of the Seven Cities-  Lagoa das Sete Cidades, Azores

28 Aug 2024

Southampton

Your cruise at a glance

Hand-crafted highlights.

Join us for an unforgettable journey as we explore the lush volcanic landscapes of the Portuguese islands of the Azores and Madeira. From descending into the Algar do Carvão volcano to visiting the awe-inspiring Sete Cidades crater lakes and towering Cabo Girão sea cliff, chances to uncover natural wonders will appear at every turn. Many cultural delights await your enjoyment, too, such as relaxing in the soothing Furnas Valley hot springs and whale and dolphin watching. Elsewhere, you can enjoy Oporto's authentic Port wine, and Lisbon's pastéis de nata, soulful Fado music, and iconic tram rides. Discover Portugal's agricultural and horticultural heritage through vineyards, botanical gardens, pineapple cultivation, and tea plantations.

  • On Board Experiences

+441473746175

Lagoon of the Seven Cities, Sao Miguel island, Azores, Portugal.

Explore Verdant Volcanic Vistas

This itinerary has been hand-crafted to allow you to discover the volcanic vistas of the Azores. From Ponta Delgada, you are perfectly placed to explore the mysterious Sete Cidades crater lakes, or perhaps embark on a special tour of the Furnas Valley, taking in sights of hot sulphur springs and steaming furmaroles before enjoying a swim in the thermal pools of Terra Nostra Park. Meanwhile, during our time in Praia da Vitória, you can explore the magma chambers and extraordinary caves of the Algar Do Carvâo Volcano.

Yellow tram on a colourful street in Lisbon

Experience the Portuguese Way of Life 

Throughout this cruise, you will have plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in the local way of life. Known for its vibrant blend of cultural traditions and unique experiences, the Portuguese culture is influenced by its seafaring past, diverse customs and vibrant arts. In Lisbon, you can explore the city like a local as you ride the famous trams through the narrow streets, sample local delicacies such as pastéis de nata, and listen out for the soulful melodies of Fado music, which tell poignant tales of love and loss. In Madeira, you will have the opportunity to sample the famous Madeiran wine, known for its unique characteristics and high quality. 

Sperm whale tail, Azores

Seek Out Whales & Dolphins

We are thrilled to have Ocean Conservationists ORCA on board with us for this cruise, who will be leading wildlife spotting sessions out on deck, helping you to identify the various cetacean species that can be found here. The Azores are well-known for being a leading whale-watching part of the world, as they are home to Atlantic-spotted dolphins and sperm whales, which can be seen at any time of the year. Larger migratory species such as the blue whale and fin whales may pass through in the Spring. Any species you spot will feed into ORCA’s Cruise Conservation Programme and their vital data collection.

Cruise Itinerary

Map Image

Life On Board

Introducing borealis.

Sister ship to Bolette , Borealis is perfectly suited for enjoying scenic cruising of the world's lesser-known waterways. From cruising past remarkable landscapes and historical sites to capturing the beauty of the natural world. 

Borealis at sea at sunset

Sister-ship to Bolette , Borealis is perfectly suited for taking guests on a journey around the globe, enabling more exploration in more exciting ports. Her smaller size, spacious public areas, open deck spaces and impressive array of restaurants make her perfect for longer voyages, and shorter journeys alike.

Sample Shore Tours

At each port of call on your cruise, we carefully research and hand pick Shore Tour options for you, designed for you see as many of the world's best destinations as possible.

Below, you will find some sample Shore Tours which will give you an example of what to expect on your cruise. Your Shore Tours will be available to book approximately 8-13 weeks prior to departure via your My Cruises account.

Algar do Carvão

Explore Inside Algar Do Carvâo Volcano

Explore Algar do Carvã, an ancient volcano located in one of Terceira's geological nature reserves. Journey 330ft below the Earth’s surface where extraordinary caves, magma chambers and even an underground lake with crystal clear waters await you.

Praia da Vitória

Lagoa das Sete Cidades

Crater Lakes Scenic Drive and Bike Ride

Relax and soak up the spectacular scenery as a leisurely drive takes you to the beautiful Sete Cidades Crater Lakes where you will embark on a scenic bike ride while your guide tells tales of local legends and folklore.

Ponta Delgada

Furnas Valley

Furnas Valley

Explore some of the natural highlights of the island of São Miguel with this special tour of Furnas Valley. Visit the historical town of Ribeira Grande, the smaller Vila Franca do Campo and a pineapple plantation to learn about the cultivation of pineapple and tea.

Flowers of Funchal

Flowers of Funchal

Begin with a scenic drive to Palheiro Gardens to explore the beautiful garden before continuing to the family-owned Quinta Jardins do Lago, where Pedro, a local botanical enthusiast, will conduct an insightful orchid workshop.

Your Guest Speakers

We’ve arranged for some wonderful guest speakers to join us for this cruise. They will be delivering a programme of insightful talks and activities to deepen your cultural, artistic and historical understanding of the destinations we will be exploring, well as helping you to enjoy the natural beauty of the places we visit.

cruises azores islands

Alan Oliver

Alan was university lecturer and havs given talks on cruise ships for over 15 years. Join him for a series of talks on the geology of the Azores and Madeira, including his own personal experiences having visiting them many times.

Laura MacFarlane

Laura MacFarlane

Laura is a passionate traveller and former teacher. Throughout this cruise, she will be joining us on board to talk about the Azores - covering topics such as the islands’ volcanic landscapes, local life, and their neutrality during WWII.

ORCA

Founded in 2001, ORCA is a group of Ocean Conservationists. Join them out on deck to search the seas for marine life.

cruises azores islands

Professor Paul Roche - Go Stargazing

Go Stargazing is formed of a group of astronomers, all of whom are keen to encourage public interest in astronomy to as wide an audience as possible. On your cruise, expect to find them out on the top deck in the evenings conducting stargazing sessions.

Richard Lovelock

Richard Lovelock

As we explore the Azores and Madeira together, wildlife photographer, Richard Lovelock, will be joining us on board hosting a series of insightful talks and to help you practice your photography skills out on deck.

Treats & Pastimes

In addition to our Signature Experiences, we have a selection of lovely Treats & Pastimes for you to enjoy when on board. Just check your Daily Times each day for full details.

Cabins, Prices & Offers

Cabin Options On Your Cruise

* Prices correct as of 14:00 20/04/2024, based on the lowest available Cruise Only fare, and on two people sharing a twin cabin. Please call +441473746175 for live availability & prices.

* Prices correct as of 14:00 20/04/2024, based on the lowest available Cruise Only fare, and on sole occupancy. Please call +441473746175 for live availability & prices.

Cabin Grades

From £4,499 pp

From £3,599 pp

From £2,299 pp

From £1,899 pp

From £5,999 pp

Balcony Junior Suite (BJ)

Borealis ' Balcony Junior Suites have a private balcony and sitting/bedroom area.

Balcony Junior Suite Wheelchair Adapted (BJD)

Borealis ' Balcony Junior Adapted Suites have a balcony and sitting/bedroom area.

Balcony Suite (BS)

Located on decks 6 & 7, Borealis ' Balcony Suites have a private balcony.

Premier Suite (PS)

Borealis ' Premier Suites are located on Deck 7, and have a private balcony.

Premier Suite Wheelchair Adapted (PSD)

Borealis ' Premier Adapted Suites are spacious and stylish, and located on deck 7.

Olsen Suite (OW)

The Olsen Suite is the largest suite on Borealis , with a private balcony and sitting area.

Terrace Cabin (TC)

Borealis ' Terrace Cabins offer access to the Promenade Deck via sliding doors.

Terrace Adapted Cabin (TCD)

Borealis ' Terrace Adapted Cabins offer access to the Promenade Deck via sliding doors.

Ocean View (F)

Borealis ' F Grade Ocean View cabins have two portholes and are on decks 1 & 2.

Last few cabins remaining!

Ocean View Wheelchair Adapted Cabin (FD)

Located forward & aft on Deck 1, Borealis ' FD Grade Ocean View Adapted cabins have portholes.

Ocean View (E)

Situated on Decks 1 & 2, E Grade Ocean View cabins have a picture window.

Ocean View (D)

Situated on Decks 1 & 2, D Grade Ocean View cabins have a picture window.

Superior Ocean Fully Obstructed View (CO)

CO Grade Superior Ocean View cabins have a fully obstructed picture view window.

Superior Ocean View (C)

Borealis ' C Grade Superior Ocean View cabins have a picture window.

Superior Ocean View (B)

B Grade Superior Ocean View cabins on Borealis are situated on deck 3.

Superior Ocean View Wheelchair Adapted Cabin (BD)

BD Grade Superior Ocean View Adapted cabins are on decks 6 and 3, with a picture window.

Interior Cabin (I)

Located on decks 1, 2 & 3, I Grade Interior cabins on Borealis have a bathroom with shower.

Interior Cabin (H)

H Grade Interior cabins on Borealis are located on decks 1 & 2.

Superior Interior Cabin (G)

G Grade Superior Interior cabins on Borealis are on decks 3 & 6.

Single Superior Interior Cabin (M)

M Grade Single Superior Interior cabins on Borealis are on deck 7.

Single Interior Cabin (N)

Borealis ' N Grade Single Interior cabins are situated on decks 1 & 2.

Single Ocean View (K)

Borealis ' K Grade Single Ocean View cabins have large picture windows.

Single Balcony Suite (JB)

Borealis ' Single Balcony Suites, located on deck 6, have a private balcony.

From £6,748.50

From £6,838.10

From £3,199

From £3,498.25

From £5,999

Cruise Offers

Free on board spend or door-to-door transfer up to 150 miles   freedom fare, what's included, so much already included.

As well as our Signature Experiences, there are a host of other treats to enjoy on board our ships.

Dining & Lounges

  • À la carte breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Daily buffet dining options
  • Late night Supper Club
  • Afternoon tea
  • Self-service tea & coffee
  • In-cabin dining & snacks
  • Evening shows
  • Live music & dancing
  • Dance classes
  • Lectures & talks
  • Cookery demonstrations
  • Traditional deck games
  • Daily games & quizzes

Relaxation & Fitness

  • Swimming Pools
  • Fitness Centre
  • Fitness Classes

Enhance your cruise

Each of our cruises has been carefully designed for you to get the very best out of your time on board; and now you can enhance your cruise to make it even more special.

Need Some Help?

Take a look at our faqs, what do i pack for a cruise.

The handy checklist below has been created to assist in making sure you remember all the important things to pack for your cruise.

Are there any visa requirements I need to be aware of?

Visa and health requirements can change at any time. It is your own responsibility to ensure that you check with a professionally qualified source and comply with such requirements. UK passport holders will need visas for certain Fred. Olsen cruise holidays and will advised at the time of booking. Your cruise booking information will also detail any requirements applicable to your holiday.

What's the difference between Freedom and Saver fares?

On certain sailings we offer two types of cruise fares; Freedom and Saver Fares.

I'm travelling alone, how will I get to meet people?

Our single guests feel right at home on board our ships; Fred. Olsen have the reputation of sailing the friendliest fleet afloat. 

How do I get off the ship if we're at anchor?

Disembarking when your ship's at anchor is a very different experience to when it's docked portside. Getting ashore in this instance often involves the use of the ship's tender, which is accessed via the steps of a secure gangway.

Which Azores island is perfect for you?

Sandra Henriques

Apr 15, 2024 • 8 min read

cruises azores islands

The islands that make up the Azores each have a unique draw, from impossibly picturesque hiking trails to lively festivals © Westend61 / Getty Images

Sandra has recently returned from her native Azores, where she was researching the upcoming Pocket Azores guidebook, out in October 2024. Here she shares her local knowledge of the archipelago to help you choose the best island for your trip.

Famous for hiking trails and lagoons, inactive volcanoes and whale watching, the Azores  naturally appeal to the outdoorsy. But these islands are also rich with a unique cuisine, exceptional wines, vibrant cultural events and traditional celebrations.

The Azores keep growing in popularity as a tourist destination, but some islands remain off most travelers’ radar. Sure, a lot of this archipelago’s appeal comes from its beautiful landscapes, where nature is practically untouched yet not entirely out of reach. But the landscapes change from island to island, sometimes within the same one, which is why “seen one, seen them all” doesn’t apply here. Read on to find the perfect islands for your Azores adventure.

A narrow track leads down a lush hillside towards a gleaming white lighthouse complex, set at the top of a cliff looking over the sea

1. Santa Maria

Best island for summer festivals  

Dubbed “the sunny island” by Azoreans, summers here see plenty of glorious days of beach weather – an oddity by Azores standards. But the promise of morning-to-evening days spent soaking up the sun and the salt of the ocean isn’t the only reason why travellers flock here during the summer months. On my early morning and practically empty flight to Santa Maria, on a late-January weekday, most of my fellow passengers were locals returning home or going on a business trip.

In mid-July, the village of Anjos welcomes blues fans to the three-day festival Santa Maria Blues . Then, at the end of August, Praia Formosa becomes the epicenter and main stage of Maré de Agosto , Portugal’s oldest music festival, turning 40 in 2024.  Marienses (Santa Maria residents) certainly know how to put on a memorable show. 

Read more:  All you need to know for your first trip to the Azores

Hot spring baths set in a lush landscape with tropical plants and steam rising from the volcanically heated water.

2. São Miguel

Best island for things to do 

The largest island, São Miguel gets the most tourists and has frequent flights from various destinations two to five hours away. For many visitors it's a good compromise between spending time on a remote island but without feeling like you’re too far away from home.

Here, you can spend the morning discovering lagoons in Sete Cidades , then while away the afternoon soaking in a thermal bath heated by an underground volcano in Furnas. In the evening you can sample international cuisine and discover local artists at O Quarteirão, a neighborhood in the historic center of the island’s capital, Ponta Delgada. 

And on one of those pesky rainy days, when sightseeing goes out the window, stroll around the shopping center or catch a movie. 

Read more:  How to get the most out of the Azores without renting a car

Crowds are watching as two women dressed in period gowns stand on a float during a parade through the streets of Angra do Heroismo, Terceira, for the Sanjoaninas festivities.

3. Terceira

Best island for culture 

Terceira has a certain majestic quality – perhaps a trace of its former life as the heart of the Portuguese Kingdom. The celebration of local heritage is strong here, from the dozens of carefully kept, colorful​​​  impérios (small temples built to display symbols of the Cult of the Holy Spirit) that dot every village and town on the island, to the cobblestoned streets of Angra do Heroísmo’ s historic center, the first UNESCO World Heritage Site in Portugal . 

The island has birthed notable intellectuals, artists and writers. But there is room for less highbrow cultural manifestations, including the sarcasm-riddled song and dance shows called Bailinhos during Carnaval, and the live music and street parades during Sanjoaninas  in June.

A red-roofed, Dutch-style windmill without its sails stands against a bright blue sky.

4. Graciosa

Best island to visit with family  

Graciosa is one of the least touristy islands. On the surface, the second smallest island in the archipelago seems to have little to do – by comparison with the rest, of course. But this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve doesn’t need to flaunt deep lagoons and waterfalls to get your attention. 

In half a day, you can drive around the island and hit all the must-see spots, and locals will state this fact to you. But it’s perfect if you’re traveling with younger kids who get fussy on long drives. The road trip includes spotting a whale-shaped rock off the coast, entirely molded by nature. You can even take them on an adventure, walking down a stone spiral staircase into the heart of Graciosa’s inactive volcano, Caldeira (or Furna do Enxofre). 

The island is also home to burro da Graciosa , an endangered species of donkey that has been rescued, protected and bred by a local nonprofit organization. Anyone can visit the farm to see the donkeys from afar, or pet them if they come closer to the fence. 

Local tip: Graciosa is famous for its red-roofed, Dutch-style windmills. Most of them are no longer operational and have been turned into short-term rental houses by their owners. 

GettyImages-1456751686.jpg

5. São Jorge

Best island for hiking 

Whether you arrive on the island by sea or by air, São Jorge resembles the scaly back of an enormous dragon fast asleep in the middle of the ocean. On this long and narrow island, most towns and villages are wedged between the sea and steep cliffs on volcanic ground that slid down the coast and formed fajãs (coastal plateaus). 

Even though some of these fajãs can be reached by car, being able to get to them as locals did in the old days, via official trekking trails, makes São Jorge the best island for hiking.

Local tip: Given the island’s rough terrain, all official trails on São Jorge range from moderate to hard, which require some hiking experience. Trekking boots and poles are recommended for a safe and comfortable hike.   

Read more: Discover the 7 best hikes in the Azores

A humpback whale breaches the surface of the sea, with Pico island in the background

Best island for local heritage 

Called “the mountain island” for being home to Portugal’s highest peak, Pico is also historically a land of whale hunters and winemakers. 

Watching whales took over from hunting them in the mid-1980s, with plenty of former hunters teaching whale-watching companies all they knew about the mammals and how to track them. You’ll see the former industry presented at museums and old processing factories. Today, whale-watching tours have become one of the most popular activities on Pico. 

Producing wine from vines that grow on volcanic soils, sheltered from the wind and the ocean by basalt rock walls, proves that picoenses  (Pico residents) are ingenious. The winemaking industry is currently reaping the fruits of a renaissance on the island, with the Landscape of the Pico Island Vineyard Culture becoming recognized by UNESCO in 2004. 

Local tip: Regular, year-round ferry rides connecting Faial, Pico, and São Jorge – also known as the “Triangle Islands” – mean that island-hopping between the three is easy. While the tendency is to stay on Faial (partly because of flight frequency), Pico is a better island to use as a base – Madalena on Pico is a 30-minute ferry ride from Horta on Faial; São Roque on Pico is 50 minutes from Velas on São Jorge. 

A gently curving stretch of light brown sand leading to calm water, with a town visible on the other side of the bay.

Island with the best beaches 

On most islands in the Azores, natural swimming pools outnumber sandy beaches, and Faial is no exception, with five beaches to its seven natural pools. The cool Atlantic waters (sometimes even in the summer) also don’t exactly pinpoint the islands on the map of best beach destinations. Nevertheless, Faial’s stretches of sand are worth visiting.

Praia do Almoxarife is hands down the beach with the best view. Imagine lounging on the black sand or taking a dip while looking across the water at Portugal’s highest peak, Mt Pico. 

Praia de Porto Pim is a local favorite within walking distance of Horta city center. The proximity to an urban area doesn’t taint the beach-going experience at all, and the bay is like a shelter. 

Calla lilies are in the foreground of a verdant tropical landscape, with waterfalls tumbling from the top of a foliage-covered cliff face

Best island for untouched nature 

Most people who visit Flores believe that this is the most beautiful island in the Azores, comparing it to such destinations as Hawaii, Switzerland, and Ireland.  

The evergreen island has dozens of waterfalls cascading down vertiginous cliffs into the ocean or into ponds of fresh water, seven lagoons nestled in the pits of collapsed volcano craters and a rugged coast hiding caves and tales of pirates – and only a handful of these delights are within human reach.   

Local tip: When the weather turns unexpectedly on Flores, locals have a fun saying: “Here today, tomorrow in Flores.” Granted, stressed travellers may miss the irony in this tidbit of local wisdom when they begin to foresee the domino effect of cancelled flights. If you’re staying three days on Flores, give yourself some leeway and plan for two extra days of traveling time – don't book connecting flights for the same day you plan to arrive on or leave Flores.

A view looking down on Vila do Corvo, a small town with tightly packed houses with terracotta rooftops.The island of Flores is visible on the horizon.

Best island to relax 

With no noise, no traffic (well, hardly any cars, for that matter), no pollution, and no fuss, Corvo, the smallest of the nine islands, is perfect for unplugging and recharging.   

Walking the maze of narrow cobblestoned streets that cut through impossibly close houses and patios that once protected corvinos (Corvo residents)   from harsh winds and pirate invasions does make you believe that if you can make it here, you can make it anywhere. And these islanders have been making a life here for four centuries. 

Local tip: Most people hop here on a boat from Flores, do a quick tour around town and visit the volcano Caldeirão. But to fully experience life on the most remote island in the Azores, plan your trip to account for a one-night stay (at least) on Corvo.

Explore related stories

cruises azores islands

Apr 14, 2024 • 7 min read

The Azores deliver spectacular hiking experiences with world-class views – strap on those boots and head out on one of our favorite routes.

cruises azores islands

Mar 14, 2024 • 16 min read

Woman Traveler Takes a Photo.

Feb 24, 2024 • 9 min read

874317902

Jan 22, 2024 • 7 min read

cruises azores islands

Jan 19, 2024 • 11 min read

Two young women exploring Portuguese countryside / Algarve, Portugal.

Dec 4, 2023 • 6 min read

A smiling group of friends hanging out together on a beach in Portugal

Nov 17, 2023 • 5 min read

Betancuria village with a church tower on Fuerteventura island.

Oct 25, 2023 • 7 min read

cruises azores islands

Sep 29, 2023 • 8 min read

cruises azores islands

Aug 15, 2023 • 5 min read

To Duke Alumni homepage

Islands of the azores: basalt peaks to volcanic vineyards, aboard national geographic endurance.

View other trips

Share on Facebook

Date: Tue, April 1, 2025 - Thu, April 10, 2025

Trip Status: Taking Reservations

Price: From $9,944

Activity Level: Moderate

Region: Europe

Arrangements: Lindblad Expeditions

A wild archipelago brimming with volcanic beauty and vibrant maritime culture awaits you in the captivating Azore Islands. National Geographic Endurance is the new standard in expedition ships; Travel on this immersive 9-day voyage from one island to the next in supreme, state-of-the-art comfort. Thanks to full stabilization and powerful wave-slicing action, she ensures the smoothest ride possible.  On shore visit gem-like crater lakes, black-sand beaches, and rich viniculture. Listen to local fado music -- a whole world awaits you to be discovered on Islands of the Azores: Basalt Peaks to Volcanic Vineyards. This special departure also features esteemed guest speaker Nicholas Kristof, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist who has contributed to the New York Times, reported from six continents, and visited 150 countries. As a speaker, Kristof captivates with his moving storytelling and unique insights into the events that shape our world. Be on deck as we round the islands to see pods of fin whales surfacing alongside us, and get up close to it all with our fleet of Zodiacs, kayaks, and undersea video equipment. On this departure, we'll also be joined by National Geographic Photography Expert Gemina Garland-Lewis, who will help ensure you bring home spectacular photos of this unforgettable destination.

Reservations and Information

To reserve, complete a registration form in the brochure and mail to Duke Travels, Box 90572, Durham, NC 27708, or call (919) 684-2988 to reserve conveniently over the phone and let us know you are mailing your reservation form to hold your space. To learn more about our travel program or any of our upcoming trips, please contact us at [email protected] or 919-684-2988

Duke Leaders

cruises azores islands

Mode of Travel

Ocean cruise.

map showing route of mode of travel

Move over Hawaii, The Azores Islands also bring vibrant beauty (with fewer crowds)

Destinations can be too crowded. Discover the antidote to overcrowded and overpriced vacation spots in " Here Not There: 100 Unexpected Travel Destinations " by National Geographic. The guide unveils imaginative and budget-friendly locales sure to inspire your next adventure, curated by longtime travel writer Andrew Nelson .

If you're looking for warmth, culture and beauty, try The Azores in Portugal instead of Hawaii.

What’s the perfect island chain? The default has always been Hawaii: Its eight principal islands rising from the Pacific’s deep are verdant and vibrant. But if you switch your gaze to the Atlantic, you will find a nine-island archipelago that’s equally lush, with flowering landscapes, cascading waterfalls, black sand beaches, volcanoes, and marine wildlife refuges swarming with animals. Like the Aloha State, the Portuguese Azores are islands where the locals both nurture and protect their unique culture, determined to keep the natural beauty safe from overdevelopment.

And there’s a lot in the Azores worth protecting. The islands are located in the North Atlantic, 2,390 miles (3,850 km) east of Boston and 870 miles (1,400 km) west of Lisbon. Colonized by Portugal in the early 15th century (the Vikings were rumored to have stopped by, too), today the Azores are an autonomous territory with a population of 242,796 (about two-thirds that of Honolulu). Thanks to the warm Gulf Stream and the archipelago’s latitude, the temperature is usually mild throughout the year, ranging in the 60s to 70s Fahrenheit (midteens to 20s Celsius), though it does rain. The islands’ many volcanoes are active, but so far fairly quiet this century. The last big eruption occurred in 1958.

Like in Hawaii, each of the islands of the Azores offers a distinct experience.

◾ The eastern part of the chain is home to Santa Maria, with its numerous vineyards and white-sand beaches. São Miguel is equivalent to the Big Island. Like the island of Hawaii, it exerts a strong influence over the rest of the archipelago and is a dynamic and geologically active place. Its landscape features geysers, volcanic lakes and thermal hot springs.

◾ The central Azores consist of the islands of Terceira, São Jorge, Pico, Faial, and Graciosa. Terceira is home to the oldest city in the Azores, Angra do Heroísmo, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its fertile soil supports numerous vineyards. On Faial, visitors can hike to the extinct Capelinhos volcano. São Jorge is celebrated for its cheese. Rugged, rough-hewn Pico Island is home to the highest mountain in Portugal, 7,713-foot-tall (2,351 m) Mount Pico. Graciosa is known for its iconic star-shaped pastries and red-peaked, Flemish-style windmills, brought by immigrants from Belgium.

◾ The western islands are Flores and Corvo. The former, known as the Island of Flowers, offers a rugged coastline, high cliffs marked by waterfalls (Poço Ribeira do Ferreiro (Alagoinha) being the most famous to see), and seven crater lakes. Flores’s dramatic, verdant landscape and the surrounding turquoise waters often spark comparisons to Kauai.

As more travelers discover the Azores’ allure, the future looks both bright and worrying. Luckily the islands have begun the task to ensure their biodiversity will be safeguarded for the future. In 2019 the Azores became the world’s first archipelago to be named a sustainable tourism destination by EarthCheck, an Australia-based international advisory board. Four of the islands – Flores, Corvo, Gracioso, and São Jorge – are UNESCO biosphere reserves, and the government has established several marine reserves to protect seabirds, fish, sea turtles, whales, and dolphins. The fight to protect paradise is only just getting started.

The Amazing Flora of the Azores

Indigenous or imported, the flowering plants of the Azores play an important role in giving the islands their iconic Instagrammable look. Being one of the world’s most isolated archipelagos, the Azores harbor many unique species, including one of the world’s rarest flowers, Myosotis azorica. Called não-meesqueças , or forget-me-nots, the purple flowers were considered extinct before a cluster of plants was discovered growing on Corvo, the Azores’ smallest island, in 2014. Despite Corvo being a protected UNESCO biosphere reserve, these tiny flowers remain endangered thanks to the appetites of the island’s insatiable goats and sheep.

 In contrast, colorful hydrangeas are not native to the island chain. They are an invasive species believed to have been brought to the island by the Japanese in the late 19th century as decorative plants. Though they’re imported, the flowers have become a symbol of the Azores and grow throughout the archipelago. Faial Island is often called the Blue Island for the azure hydrangeas that blanket its fields and roadsides. Their hue is due to the island’s acidic soil, which deepens the hydrangeas’ rich color. Volcanic eruptions in 1957 and 1958 only added to the fertility. It was Azorean immigrants to the United States who are credited with popularizing the flower in America, especially in Massachusetts and Rhode Island, where many of these immigrants settled in the mid-20th century.

This is an excerpt from “ Here Not There: 100 Unexpected Travel Destinations ,”   published on April 2 by Disney Publishing Group. Author Andrew Nelson is an award-winning writer and editor for National Geographic Traveler, who has roamed all 50 states as well as numerous countries for the magazine and website, based in Washington, D.C.

  • CruiseMapper
  • Cruise Ports
  • Russia Rivers Cruise Ports

Moscow (Russia)

Cruise port schedule, live map, terminals, news.

Moscow cruise port

Region Russia Rivers

Local Time 2024-04-20 17:59

Moscow is a Volga River cruise port, Russia's capital and largest city (population over 12,2 million, metro 17 million). Moscow City covers a total area of approx 2610 km 2 (970 mi2). By population, the city is ranked the world's 14th largest. Moscow is one of the Russian Federation's all 3 federal cities - together with St Petersburg and Sevastopol .

Being Russian Federation's capital, Moscow is a major economic, political, scientific and cultural center, as well as Europe's biggest city.

According to Forbes 2013, Moscow has been ranked as the 9th most expensive city in the world by Mercer and has one of the largest urban economies, being ranked as an alpha global city according to Globalization and World Cities Research Network. It is also one of the fastest-growing tourist destinations in the world according to MasterCard Global Destination Cities Index. Moscow is the northernmost and the coldest megacity and metropolis on the Earth. It's home to Ostankino Tower, the tallest free-standing European structure; the Federation Tower, the tallest European skyscraper; and the Moscow International Business Center. 

Moscow is situated on Moskva River in the Central Federal District of European Russia, which makes it the most populated inland city in the world. Moscow city is well known for architecture, particularly its historic buildings like Saint Basil's Cathedral. With over 40% of its territory covered by greenery, it's one of the greenest capitals and major cities in Europe and the world. Moscow is the seat of power of the Russian Government, being the site of Moscow Kremlin, a medieval city-fortress that is now the residence of the President of Russia. Moscow Kremlin and Red Square are among the several World Heritage Sites in the city. 

Moscow has 2 passenger terminals, North River Terminal (Rechnoy vokzal) and South River Terminal. The regular ship routes and cruises along Moskva and Oka rivers are used mostly for entertainment. North River Terminal (1937-built) is currently the main hub for long-range routes along the river. There are 3 freight ports that serve Moscow.

In late-July 2021 the city announced plans to incorporate a fleet (unspecified number) of fully electric passenger ferries into its public transportation network from summer 2022, the goal being to reduce the dependence on cars.

  • The boats are designed with length ~22 m (72 ft), passenger capacity 42, modern amenities (Wi-Fi, USB charging points, tables for working commuters), spaces for storing scooters and bicycles.
  • Moscow Transport confirmed that two routes (with max daily capacity ~16,000 passengers) have already been mapped out.
  • Passengers will be able to pay via bank cards, the city’s Troika card (smart card for travel by any public transportation) or biometric payment cards. Those with monthly/yearly public transit tickets will use the boats at no extra cost.
  • The new electric ferry service is up to 5 times faster (in comparison to other city public transports) and ~2 times faster than by car.

Moscow cruise terminal

Moscow's cruise terminal is called North River Terminal or River Station  ("Rechnoy Vokzal" / "речной вокзал").

The terminal was opened in 1937 and is one of 2 passenger terminals (the other being South River Terminal) of the city's river transport. North River Terminal is the main hub for long-range (including cruise) shipping routes. 

South River Terminal (above photo) was opened in 1985.

Moscow launches electric ferry service in 2022

Moscow launches electric ferry service in 2022

Russia's capital city Moscow plans to incorporate a fleet of fully electric passenger ferries into its public transport network from summer 2022...

Vodohod’s first Project PV300 river ship departs on maiden cruise

Vodohod’s first Project PV300 river ship departs on maiden cruise

Project PV300 built by United Shipbuilding Corporation's Krasnoye Sormovo Shipyard (Sormovsky-Nizhny Novgorod, Russia) and recently delivered to...

Emerald Waterways opens bookings for 2021 Russian River Cruises

Emerald Waterways opens bookings for 2021 Russian River Cruises

The premium brand Emerald Waterways opened bookings for its 2021 Russian river cruise season. Voyages will feature a newly chartered...

Vodohod’s Mustay Karim cruise ship to be delivered by July 10

Vodohod’s Mustay Karim cruise ship to be delivered by July 10

Russia's largest cruise company and tour agency Vodohod expects its newbuild cruise ship MS Mustai Karim (currently under construction at Nizhny...

2018 FIFA World Cup Games to Be Shown Aboard Princess Cruises Ships

2018 FIFA World Cup Games to Be Shown Aboard Princess Cruises Ships

Princess Cruises passengers sailing all over the world will spectate and cheer on their favourite teams during the single largest tournament of the...

  •   show more news

Moscow - user reviews and comments

  • Favorites & Watchlist Find a Cruise Cruise Deals Cruise Ships Destinations Manage My Cruise​ FAQ Perfect Day at CocoCay Weekend Cruises Crown & Anchor Society Cruising Guides Gift Cards Contact Us Royal Caribbean Group
  • Back to Main Menu
  • Search Cruises " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-2-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruises" target="_self"> Search Cruises
  • Cruise Deals
  • Weekend Cruises
  • Last Minute Cruises
  • Family Cruises​
  • 2024-2025 Cruises
  • All Cruise Ships " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-4-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruise-ships" target="_self"> All Cruise Ships
  • Cruise Dining
  • Onboard Activities
  • Cruise Rooms
  • The Cruise Experience
  • All Cruise Destinations " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-5-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruise-destinations" target="_self"> All Cruise Destinations
  • Cruise Ports
  • Shore Excursions
  • Perfect Day at CocoCay
  • Caribbean Cruises
  • Bahamas Cruises​
  • Alaska Cruises
  • European Cruises​
  • Mediterranean Cruises​
  • Cruise Planner
  • Book a Flight
  • Book a Hotel
  • Check-In for My Cruise
  • Required Travel Documents
  • Make a Payment
  • Redeem Cruise Credit
  • Update Guest Information
  • Beverage Packages​
  • Dining Packages​
  • Shore Excursions​
  • Transportation
  • Royal Gifts
  • All FAQs " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-7-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/faq" target="_self"> All FAQs
  • Boarding Requirements
  • Future Cruise Credit​
  • Travel Documents​
  • Check-in​ & Boarding Pass
  • Transportation​
  • Perfect Day at CocoCay​
  • Post-Cruise Inquiries
  • Royal Caribbean
  • Celebrity Cruises

Orlando Downtown Lake

6 Best Cruises Out Of Port Canaveral

By Zachary Laks | Published on April 9, 2024

It's time to start planning your next big vacation. Whether you're looking for a weekend getaway, a family-friendly vacation or an extended voyage, you'll find cruises out of Port Canaveral, Florida that tick all your boxes.

When considering one of the cruises out of Port Canaveral, plan extra time before and after your sailing to soak up all the fun that the area has to offer. There's so much to do in Orlando that you could stay for several days and never get bored — music to your ears if you're traveling with children. One of the best things about Orlando cruises is that you have your choice of theme parks to round out your vacation. They're expansive and immersive escapes into playful worlds, not unlike a great cruise. I love tacking on an extra day or two at an Orlando theme park, usually before my cruise departs. I always appreciate the days of racking up thousands of steps traversing a theme park before boarding a cruise, where I know I'll be able to lounge on a deck or relax in a hot tub.

Not far from Port Canaveral, the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is a great place to spend a day admiring the vast scope of NASA. The center offers one-of-a-kind immersion into space exploration, including the chance to strap into a rocket launch simulator for an adrenaline-pumping thrill.

For those seeking a more peaceful retreat before boarding their cruises out of Orlando, Port Canaveral is near the white sands of Cocoa Beach. Spend the day enjoying calm, low waves — great for year-round swimming, learning to surf and kayaking alongside manatees and dolphins. Or take a seat on an airboat ride through the wetlands for encounters with alligators and, depending on the season, bald eagles, herons and osprey.

Ready to book a cruise to Port Canaveral? Here are the six best cruises from Port Canaveral.

Serene Clear Cocoa Beach, Cape Canaveral, Florida

1. Best For A Long Weekend

Coco Beach Club Beach Cabanas Mom and Daughter Tanning, Perfect Day at Coco Cay

Set to launch in the summer of 2024, Utopia of the Seas ℠ will be the sixth Oasis Class ship, Royal Caribbean's class of ships packed with adventure and entertainment. The new ship will focus on three- and four-night cruises from its year-round home port in Port Canaveral, with onboard upgrades that include reimagined pool decks, a Giovanni's℠ Italian Kitchen that spans two decks (try the osso buco!) and the new Pesky Parrot tiki bar, serving fruity cocktails on the Royal Promenade. This itinerary  to the Bahamas on Utopia of the Seas ℠ is the best for a long weekend exploring the highlights of The Bahamas, with a day in Nassau followed by a day at Perfect Day at CocoCay , Royal Caribbean's private island destination.

2. Best For Beach Lovers

Colorful buildings along the coast, Willemstad, Curacao

This exquisite itinerary to the Southern Caribbean on Adventure of the Seas ® routes you to the farthest corner of the Caribbean for some of its best beaches. Sailing on the Adventure of the Seas ® for eight nights from Port Canaveral, you'll stop in ports such as Oranjestad, Aruba; Willemstad, Curaçao; and Kralendijk, Bonaire. Each port will welcome you with easily accessible, powdery sand beaches primed for world-class swimming, snorkeling and diving. You'll have your pick of 86 dive sites at Bonaire National Marine Park with more than 350 recorded fish species known to frequent the waters.

3. Best For A European Adventure

Gran Canaria, Canary Islands, Boats Docked

Transatlantic sailings make for such a special vacation, and this 13-night Transatlantic Azores itinerary on Adventure of the Seas ® packs four remarkable ports into the crossing. You'll cruise the Atlantic for the first nine days, living it up on a ship that is packed with ways to play and relax. You'll arrive in idyllic Tenerife in the Canary Islands on the tenth day. Immerse yourself in the local Spanish culture by spending part of your day exploring the Museum of Nature and Archaeology or the Basilica de Candelaria shrine. The cruise continues to Lanzarote, Canary Islands, where picture-perfect colonial mansions line cobblestone streets, then on to the adventurous mountain island of Madeira, Portugal before completing your journey in the charming streets of Lisbon, Portugal.

4. Best For Private Island Getaways

Hamilton, Bermuda Horseshoe Bay

This unique Port Canaveral cruise itinerary  to Bermuda and Perfect Day at CocoCay on Adventure of the Seas ® visits both of Royal Caribbean's private destinations, where paradise is just steps away from the ship. On an eight-night journey, this ship will first cruise to Labadee, the cruise line's private peninsula adventure park and beach. Soak up this private spot by relaxing on the beach, enjoy the destination's signature cocktail specialty, the Labadoozie (a fruity rum cocktail) or opt for a zip line ride that will send you soaring over the ocean. The next private island destination is Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean's oasis in The Bahamas. Here you'll port within short distance of pristine beaches, a thrilling water park and countless ways to unwind beneath the palm trees. There's also a stop in Bermuda, home to pink-sand beaches and rum swizzles.

5. Best For Foodies

Authentic  Cozumel Shrimp Tacos

Foodies will delight in fresh, authentic Caribbean dishes on this itinerary to the Western Caribbean and Perfect Day at CocoCay on Wonder of the Seas ® . In Cozumel, Mexico you'll find lunch specialties featuring locally caught seafood, often grouper and red snapper fried on a plate with rice and a vibrant salad. In Roatán, Honduras, ceviche is the local favorite, along with fried plantains and baleadas — tacos made with soft flour tortillas. The ship's final port is Puerto Costa Maya, Mexico, a charming fishing village where the salbutes  (fried corn tortillas topped with shredded chicken) make a great appetizer to the catch of the day, served hot off the grill.

6. Best For Variety

Aruba ATV Off Road Track, Oranjestad, Aruba

This seven-night Eastern Caribbean itinerary  on Wonder of the Seas ® is a top choice if you want to change things up and go on a unique adventure in each port. Your first destination is Philipsburg, St. Maarten, where you can tour the island on an ATV, sample rum from a local distillery or end the day with a sunset horseback ride on the beach. When the ship arrives in the U.S. Virgin Islands at Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, head straight to Magens Bay, often short-listed as one of the world's most beautiful beaches. Or dive into a snorkeling tour to get face time with some sea turtles and coral reefs. On your final stop, Royal Caribbean's Perfect Day at CocoCay, everyone in your group can enjoy a seemingly endless array of activities. If the beach is calling, grab a spot on one of the many cushy beach loungers close to a bar serving up island cocktails that go great with the ocean view. For the adventurous ones, Daredevil's Peak® waterslide is North America's tallest and promises an adrenaline rush.

Encompassing ports of paradise and incredible culture, Orlando cruises are the ideal vacation getaway. Start planning your island escape from Port Canaveral now .

Wooden Walkway to the Beach, Orlando, Florida

Cruise From Orlando

STARTING FROM 

Perfect Day Coco Cay Dare Devil's Tower Sunny Day

PERFECT DAY AT COCOCAY

Swimming in Cenotes in Cozumel & Cancun

FAMILY GETAWAY

WESTERN CARIBBEAN

Related Articles

perfect day coco cay on the rcoks bar hideaway beach mai tai cocktail

[Infographic] What to Drink at Perfect Day at CocoCay

icon of the seas watersedge kids playing splashing family

What’s Free Onboard Icon of the Seas | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Radiance of the seas | Royal Caribbean Australia

What’s Free Onboard Radiance of the Seas | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Packing Souvenirs from your Cruise Travels

What To Wear on a Cruise: 5 Day-to-Night Outfit Ideas

EXPLORE MORE

Girl Sunbathing, Nassau, Bahamas | New HP

Previewing: Promo Dashboard Campaigns

My Personas

Code: ∅.

cruises azores islands

6 Top Transatlantic Cruises for 2024

T ransatlantic cruises are unique when you compare them to traditional cruises most people book for family trips and romantic getaways. These voyages tend to be longer in general, and they have more built-in days at sea and offer a lot more time on board as a result. Repositioning cruises that include a transatlantic crossing tend to attract more retirees and travelers who just want to relax and enjoy their ships' amenities, especially since fewer days in port means fewer excursions and more time doing nothing at all.

That said, the fact that transatlantic cruises can last as few as seven nights means they may fit in your plans more easily than you may think. There are also some benefits to transatlantic crossings that may not be obvious, including lower nightly rates, more onboard credit, and more time to kick back and relax at a floating luxury resort in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean.

If you're curious which transatlantic cruises are best for 2024, here are six top picks with different cruise lengths, itineraries and unique destinations to explore.

Explore cruises on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Cunard Line

Date: Departs May 5, 2024

Departure port: Brooklyn, New York

Starting price: $2,449 per person (plus port taxes and fees)

Cruise length: 7 to 18 nights

In May of 2024, Cunard's Queen Mary 2 vessel will offer three different transatlantic crossings of various lengths. Choose from a seven-night sailing from Brooklyn, New York , to Southampton, England; a nine-night sailing to Hamburg, Germany ; and an 18-night round-trip sailing that departs from Brooklyn and crosses the Atlantic twice on the way back to its starting point. This unique combination of itineraries lets you cross the sea and tailor your trip to how long you want to be away from home.

The 18-night itinerary is especially interesting, since it lets you depart from the United States and arrive back in Brooklyn in the end with stops in both England and Germany, as well as plenty of sea days in between. Luxury cruise line Cunard is known for its elegant design, lush amenities and upscale feel, and the Queen Mary 2 is one of the line's most luxurious ships. Highlights on this exclusive vessel include the Royal Court Theatre, a casino, gala evenings, an onboard spa and a vast library. The Queen Mary 2 holds up to 2,691 guests with 1,173 crew to cater to your every need.

Seabourn Cruise Line

Date: Departs March 24, 2024

Departure port: Miami

Starting price: $5,949 per person (plus port taxes and fees)

Cruise length: 21 nights

Seabourn is offering a 21-night transatlantic cruise from Miami on Seabourn Quest in March 2024 that offers a diverse range of ports of call before ending its voyage in Las Palmas in Spain's Canary Islands . Departure from Miami is followed by nine days at sea. Then, you'll enjoy multiple stops in the Canary Islands – including Santa Cruz de La Palma and San Sebastián de La Gomera – as well as stops in Praia and Mindelo the Cape Verde archipelago.

This journey with Seabourn makes it possible for travelers to see some of the most beautiful and remote tropical islands in the world. The Canary Islands are known for their white sand beaches , volcanoes and lush greenery; similar landscapes can also be found in Cape Verde's coastal towns and villages. Seabourn Quest, a smaller ocean vessel, accommodates just 229 guests.

MSC Cruises

Date: Departs Nov. 8, 2024

Departure port: Southampton, England

Starting price: $769 per person (plus port taxes and fees)

Cruise length: 16 nights

The MSC Virtuosa from MSC Cruises is repositioning from Europe to the Caribbean in November 2024, which gives travelers the chance to enjoy a lengthy transatlantic crossing with plenty of unique ports. This sailing departs from England with eight sea days plus stops in France, the Azores of Portugal, St. Maarten , Antigua and Barbuda, and Martinique . The ship ends its journey in Pointe-a-Pitre, Guadeloupe.

The MSC Virtuosa is a larger cruise vessel that boasts an impressive grand promenade with a LED dome ceiling, dedicated clubs for children and teens, an onboard spa, a lavish casino and the luxurious MSC Yacht Club section of the ship. This vessel holds a maximum of 6,334 passengers at once.

Raw HTML : Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Princess Cruises

Date: Departs July 5, 2024

Departure port: New York City (Manhattan or Brooklyn)

Starting price: $4,098 per person (plus port taxes and fees)

Cruise length: 31 nights

Princess Cruises also offers its share of transatlantic sailings on various vessels. Its 31-night crossing from New York to Barcelona, Spain , on Island Princess in July 2024 is jam-packed with exciting destinations to explore. This lengthy transatlantic voyage has only 13 sea days with planned stops in Canada's Newfoundland, Greenland, Iceland, Scotland, England, Spain, Portugal and Morocco before the journey ends in Barcelona.

This intriguing sailing experience with Princess takes passengers to eight different countries in the span of a month. Island Princess is a nice ship for a long sailing because of its smaller size, with just 2,200 passengers and 900 crew. But the ship is also large enough to have a huge selection of included and specialty dining options, a Vegas-style casino, a sports court, a large central atrium for gathering, and several pools and hot tubs to enjoy.

Celebrity Cruises

Date: Departs April 11, 2024

Departure port: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Starting price: $760 per person (plus port taxes and fees)

Cruise length: 12 nights

Celebrity Cruises is offering a 12-night sailing on Celebrity Equinox in April 2024 that starts in Fort Lauderdale, Florida , and ends in Lisbon, Portugal – making it possible for travelers to enjoy eight relaxing days at sea. What's interesting about this sailing is its stops along the way, which include the Royal Naval Dockyard in Bermuda; Porta Delgada in Portugal's Azores archipelago; and Porto in mainland Portugal.

The Celebrity Equinox accommodates a maximum of just 2,852 passengers at once, so this Celebrity vessel is a solid choice for travelers who want just the right size ship instead of a smaller vessel or a megaship. There are also plenty of onboard features to keep you happy and entertained as you float across the Atlantic Ocean, including The Casino, The Lawn Club with outdoor games like bocce ball and croquet, The Martini Bar, the adults-only Solarium and more.

Royal Caribbean International

Dates: Departs Oct. 24, 2024

Departure port: Barcelona, Spain

Starting price: $876 per person (plus port taxes and fees)

Cruise length: 14 nights

Royal Caribbean's Oasis of the Seas is hosting a transatlantic voyage in October 2024 that departs from Barcelona, Spain, and ends in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. This vessel will make stops in Palma de Mallorca, Valencia, Cartagena and Málaga in Spain, then spend eight days at sea. After that, enjoy a day in Nassau in the Bahamas before the cruise drops passengers off in sunny Florida.

Interior staterooms on this Royal Caribbean sailing start at just $876 per person (plus port taxes and fees), which works out to around $60 per night, per person. The Oasis of the Seas megaship can hold a total of 6,771 guests and 2,109 crew, so it's an enormous vessel – to put it mildly. This size may not be ideal for travelers who want a more intimate cruising experience, but it's perfect for cruisers who want plenty of space to spread out and endless activities to take part in. Oasis of the Seas boasts 20 different restaurants and cafes, 11 bars and lounges, a variety of pools and whirlpools, a rock climbing wall, the AquaTheater diving and entertainment venue, mini-golf, a casino and plenty more.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Holly Johnson is a professional travel writer and cruise expert who has covered family travel and cruises for more than a decade. She has cruised more than 40 times across most of the major cruise lines in destinations throughout the Caribbean, Europe and the Middle East. Johnson used her personal experience and research expertise to curate the itineraries for this article.

You might also be interested in:

  • The Top Solo Cruises (With No Supplement Fare)
  • Sustainable Cruises: The Top Lines Making Progress
  • Bucket List Cruises for Seniors and Retirees
  • The Best Cruise Insurance Plans
  • Cruise Packing List: Essentials Chosen by Experts

Copyright 2024 U.S. News & World Report

Cunard Line's Queen Mary 2 in New York.

  • Bahasa Indonesia
  • Slovenščina
  • Science & Tech
  • Russian Kitchen

Cruising the Moskva River: A short guide to boat trips in Russia’s capital

cruises azores islands

There’s hardly a better way to absorb Moscow’s atmosphere than on a ship sailing up and down the Moskva River. While complicated ticketing, loud music and chilling winds might dampen the anticipated fun, this checklist will help you to enjoy the scenic views and not fall into common tourist traps.

How to find the right boat?

There are plenty of boats and selecting the right one might be challenging. The size of the boat should be your main criteria.

Plenty of small boats cruise the Moskva River, and the most vivid one is this yellow Lay’s-branded boat. Everyone who has ever visited Moscow probably has seen it.

cruises azores islands

This option might leave a passenger disembarking partially deaf as the merciless Russian pop music blasts onboard. A free spirit, however, will find partying on such a vessel to be an unforgettable and authentic experience that’s almost a metaphor for life in modern Russia: too loud, and sometimes too welcoming. Tickets start at $13 (800 rubles) per person.

Bigger boats offer smoother sailing and tend to attract foreign visitors because of their distinct Soviet aura. Indeed, many of the older vessels must have seen better days. They are still afloat, however, and getting aboard is a unique ‘cultural’ experience. Sometimes the crew might offer lunch or dinner to passengers, but this option must be purchased with the ticket. Here is one such  option  offering dinner for $24 (1,490 rubles).

cruises azores islands

If you want to travel in style, consider Flotilla Radisson. These large, modern vessels are quite posh, with a cozy restaurant and an attentive crew at your service. Even though the selection of wines and food is modest, these vessels are still much better than other boats.

cruises azores islands

Surprisingly, the luxurious boats are priced rather modestly, and a single ticket goes for $17-$32 (1,100-2,000 rubles); also expect a reasonable restaurant bill on top.

How to buy tickets?

Women holding photos of ships promise huge discounts to “the young and beautiful,” and give personal invitations for river tours. They sound and look nice, but there’s a small catch: their ticket prices are usually more than those purchased online.

“We bought tickets from street hawkers for 900 rubles each, only to later discover that the other passengers bought their tickets twice as cheap!”  wrote  (in Russian) a disappointed Rostislav on a travel company website.

Nevertheless, buying from street hawkers has one considerable advantage: they personally escort you to the vessel so that you don’t waste time looking for the boat on your own.

cruises azores islands

Prices start at $13 (800 rubles) for one ride, and for an additional $6.5 (400 rubles) you can purchase an unlimited number of tours on the same boat on any given day.

Flotilla Radisson has official ticket offices at Gorky Park and Hotel Ukraine, but they’re often sold out.

Buying online is an option that might save some cash. Websites such as  this   offer considerable discounts for tickets sold online. On a busy Friday night an online purchase might be the only chance to get a ticket on a Flotilla Radisson boat.

This  website  (in Russian) offers multiple options for short river cruises in and around the city center, including offbeat options such as ‘disco cruises’ and ‘children cruises.’ This other  website  sells tickets online, but doesn’t have an English version. The interface is intuitive, however.

Buying tickets online has its bad points, however. The most common is confusing which pier you should go to and missing your river tour.

cruises azores islands

“I once bought tickets online to save with the discount that the website offered,” said Igor Shvarkin from Moscow. “The pier was initially marked as ‘Park Kultury,’ but when I arrived it wasn’t easy to find my boat because there were too many there. My guests had to walk a considerable distance before I finally found the vessel that accepted my tickets purchased online,” said the man.

There are two main boarding piers in the city center:  Hotel Ukraine  and  Park Kultury . Always take note of your particular berth when buying tickets online.

Where to sit onboard?

Even on a warm day, the headwind might be chilly for passengers on deck. Make sure you have warm clothes, or that the crew has blankets ready upon request.

The glass-encased hold makes the tour much more comfortable, but not at the expense of having an enjoyable experience.

cruises azores islands

Getting off the boat requires preparation as well. Ideally, you should be able to disembark on any pier along the way. In reality, passengers never know where the boat’s captain will make the next stop. Street hawkers often tell passengers in advance where they’ll be able to disembark. If you buy tickets online then you’ll have to research it yourself.

There’s a chance that the captain won’t make any stops at all and will take you back to where the tour began, which is the case with Flotilla Radisson. The safest option is to automatically expect that you’ll return to the pier where you started.

If using any of Russia Beyond's content, partly or in full, always provide an active hyperlink to the original material.

to our newsletter!

Get the week's best stories straight to your inbox

  • What to do in Moscow City, if you’re not mega-rich
  • Moscow after dusk: 10 places to drink, dance, and groove
  • 5 things you must do in Moscow in 2018 between football matches (or without them)
  • Sandwiched between Moscow and St. Petersburg: How to spend a perfect weekend in Tver 
  • 24 or 48 hours in Moscow: Where to go and what to do in 2019

cruises azores islands

This website uses cookies. Click here to find out more.

  • Guided tour

River Cruise on Luxurious Radisson Boat

  • Description
  • Choose date

River Cruise on Luxurious Radisson Boat

Equipped with ice-breaking technology, these huge fancy yachts are the only river cruisers running all year around. The round trip journey takes two and a half hours and floats past all the big sights like the White House, Novodevichy monastery and the Kremlin. There’s a large open air observation deck up top, while the main body of the ship houses a restaurant with a dance floor for a romantic post dinner dance. For a particularly romantic experience take one of the evening boats and admire the bright lights of the city skyline at night.

The most relaxing and picturesque tour that Moscow can offer: a great way to see the city center and its main attractions. This is a perfect alternative to exploring the city by car, if you only have time to do sightseeing during weekday rush hours.

Your English-speaking guide is eager to share every bit of their knowledge about the surrounding landscape, the architecture and historical details.

We conduct Moscow river tour on Radisson Flotilla boats all year around!  It’s warm inside during winter months, while there’s air conditioning during hot summer days. You may also treat yourself to drinks, lunch or dinner on board (drinks and food are not included in tour price).

The cost of an excursion with a personal guide for 1 person

Quay at Radisson Collection Hotel

Government Headquarters ("the White House")

Kievsky Railway Central

Novodevichy Convent

Luzhniki Stadium

Academy of Sciences

Monument to Peter I

Cathedral of Christ the Saviour

Moscow Kremlin

St.Basil's Cathedral

Novospassky Monastery

U-turn and back to Quay at Radisson Royal Hotel

Choose your dates

Who's going.

  • Excursion River Cruise on Luxurious Radisson Boat
  • Date and time:
  • Who's going:

See photo of the meeting point

IMAGES

  1. Azores Cruise: Best Cruises to Azores 2024 & 2025

    cruises azores islands

  2. Azores

    cruises azores islands

  3. Azores Cruise Holidays 2022, 2023 & 2024

    cruises azores islands

  4. Discover the archipelago of the Azores by sailboat

    cruises azores islands

  5. Graciosa Island Azores (Portugal) cruise port schedule

    cruises azores islands

  6. Azores Islands, Portugal Cruise Port, 2019, 2020 and 2021 Cruises to

    cruises azores islands

VIDEO

  1. SKY PRINCESS HOMEPORTS BACK TO FLORIDA UNTIL 2024 10/11/23

  2. 'Aurora'

  3. P&O's Azura Canaries Cruise

  4. Northern Panorama Tenerife Excursion

  5. WE WENT ON A 15 DAYS TRANSATLANTIC CRUISE

  6. LIVE: Carnival Freedom departure in Ponta Delgada Azores Portugal

COMMENTS

  1. Azores Cruise: Best Cruises to Azores 2024 & 2025

    Discover the wild landscapes and rugged green coastline of the awe-inspiring island of Sao Miguel on an Azores cruise. A remote archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean, the Azores are part of Portugal and are a popular destination for nature enthusiasts, hikers, and those seeking rest and relaxation. The diverse topography of these islands provides ...

  2. 7 Tips for Cruises to the Azores: Know Before You Go

    Here are our seven tips for sailing on Azores cruises. 1. Study Up on Azores History Before Going. The Azores is a cluster of nine volcanic islands, lying west of the southern tip of Portugal in ...

  3. Cruises to Ponta Delgada, Azores

    Cruise to Ponta Delgada, Azores. Ponta Delgada, Azores. Nicknamed the Green Island, Ponta Delgada is full of lush natural wonders, 16th-century architecture and mini-expeditions. When you arrive at the Azorean capital, situated on the south coast of the island Sao Miguel, wander around the old town to snap photos of monuments that cover ...

  4. Azores Cruises

    Discover more about island Life. Azores cruises reveal marvellous, unspoilt volcanic treasures Horta and Praia de Vitória. Ponta Delgada, located on São Miguel Island, offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern-day touches with cobblestone streets, historic architecture, bustling markets, a marina and waterside cafés, all in the ...

  5. Azores cruises : Luxury cruise to Azores

    The Azores Cruises. 1,500 kilometres from the Portuguese coast, nine islands spring up out of the Atlantic Ocean. Their name, the Azores, means "around the goshawks": just as poetic as the archipelago's craggy and lush terrain covered with hydrangeas when the weather improves. Visit this corner of paradise to which sailors pay special attention.

  6. Azores Islands Cruises (Atlantic Ocean)

    The weather changes super fast here in the Azores, just like the wind that blows on these islands. Starting from. $ 1,359. Mandatory service fees are not included in the price: Adults €11/night, Children €5.5/night, under 4 years old free of charge. Look at the itineraries Discover more.

  7. Discover Azores: Your Ultimate Cruise Guide

    Discover Azores: Your Ultimate Cruise Guide. by The Cruise Web Team April 16, 2024. Facebook Pinterest. Nestled in the middle of the North Atlantic Ocean, the Azores archipelago is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Comprising nine volcanic islands, this Portuguese territory boasts a landscape unlike any other, with lush greenery, dramatic ...

  8. Azores Cruise Holidays 2023, 2024 & 2025

    Azores Cruise Holiday Highlights. Pummelled by the turbulent waters of the Atlantic, the Azores is a country where verdant volcanic peaks plunge down into jade-tinted lakes. Around 850 miles from the mainland, its remoteness has shielded it from mass tourism, but this is part of the archipelago's appeal and any visit feels very special.

  9. Azores Cruise 2024

    Book an Azores cruise with Fred. Olsen Cruises and experience the local traditions and culture of the islands with each port of the cruise. Discover more today! Home Page Ocean Cruises Destinations Cruise Brochures Terms & Conditions About Us. Call us free on +441473746175. Opening Hours:

  10. Azores Islands Cruises (Atlantic Ocean)

    Discover the beauty of the Azores Islands from a privileged point of view. Choose the right offer for you and book an unforgettable cruise!

  11. Azores Islands Cruises

    20 Night - Eastbound Atlantic Ocean Crossing from St. Johns, Antigua to Malaga, Spain. Starting in St. Johns, Antigua, Ponta Delgada - Sao Miguel - Azores, Portugal, Malaga, Spain. More... Lindblad Expeditions, National Geographic Endurance. 23 Night - Islands of the Atlantic Ridge: Brazil to the Azores from Bahia de Salvador, Brazil to Ponta ...

  12. 2 Extraordinary Azores Small Ship Cruises for 2024-2025

    Explore the top-rated Azores small ship cruises below. Adventure Life works with the top-rated small ship cruise lines visiting Ponta Delgada, Sao Miguel, Faial, Vila do Porto, and Graciosa Island, and we help match you with the perfect small ship and cruise itinerary for your specific tastes and needs.There are countless advantages to exploring on a small ship cruise versus a large cruise ...

  13. Madeira and Azores

    Our Azores cruises feature the 'Garden Island' of Madeira too. With its fragrant flora, unique levada trails and sweet wines, a visit here always feels enlivening. Portugal's islands are bursting with fascinating landscapes filled with flora and fauna, making this the ideal region for those wanting to get closer to nature. Cruising is a ...

  14. Azores Small Ship Cruise that to tours the nature-rich European islands

    Call 1.406.541.2677. Start Planning My Trip. In the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of Europe, 900 miles west of Portugal, are nine garden-like islands that make up the Azores archipelago. These majestic islands span over 350 miles, and are on the same latitude as Lisbon. They were discovered around 1427, when Portuguese sailors reached the ...

  15. Cruise to the Azores

    Hand-crafted highlights. Visiting mainland Portugal and its remote Atlantic islands of Madeira and the Azores, this cruise will present you with fascinating wildlife, nature and dramatic scenery in equal measure. The Azores boasts diverse landscapes, from the Sete Cidades crater lakes to scenes of blue hydrangeas - we've even timed your visit ...

  16. Azores Islands, Portugal Cruise Port

    Learn about the cruise port of Azores Islands, Portugal. Find 2024, 2025 and 2026 cruise itineraries to Azores Islands, Portugal or view sample excursions and things to do in Azores Islands, Portugal.

  17. Azores Islands Cruise

    Olsen Cruise Lines and enjoy the natural landscapes of Madeira, Azores Islands and Portugal. Discover more online today! Home Page Ocean Cruises Destinations Cruise Brochures Terms & Conditions About Us. Call us free on +441473746175. Opening Hours: Mon-Fri 8.30am - 6pm. Saturday 9am - 5pm.

  18. Best islands to visit in the Azores

    On most islands in the Azores, natural swimming pools outnumber sandy beaches, and Faial is no exception, with five beaches to its seven natural pools. The cool Atlantic waters (sometimes even in the summer) also don't exactly pinpoint the islands on the map of best beach destinations. Nevertheless, Faial's stretches of sand are worth visiting.

  19. Islands of the Azores: Basalt Peaks to Volcanic Vineyards

    A wild archipelago brimming with volcanic beauty and vibrant maritime culture awaits you in the captivating Azore Islands. National Geographic Endurance is the new standard in expedition ships; Travel on this immersive 9-day voyage from one island to the next in supreme, state-of-the-art comfort. Thanks to full stabilization and powerful wave-slicing action, she ensures the smoothest ride ...

  20. Move over Hawaii, The Azores Islands also bring vibrant beauty (with

    And there's a lot in the Azores worth protecting. The islands are located in the North Atlantic, 2,390 miles (3,850 km) east of Boston and 870 miles (1,400 km) west of Lisbon.

  21. Moscow (Russia) cruise port schedule

    Cruise Port schedule, live map, terminals, news. Moscow is a Volga River cruise port, Russia's capital and largest city (population over 12,2 million, metro 17 million). Moscow City covers a total area of approx 2610 km 2 (970 mi2). By population, the city is ranked the world's 14th largest. Moscow is one of the Russian Federation's all 3 ...

  22. Cruise Line Offers Free Parking for Passengers at One Homeport

    Fred Olsen Offers Free Parking From Dover. In a partnership with the Port of Dover in the U.K., Fred Olsen Cruise Lines is set to provide an enticing offer of free parking to passengers who choose ...

  23. 6 Best Cruises Out of Port Canaveral

    6. Best For Variety. From Philipsburg, you can head out to explore St. Maarten on an ATV tour. This seven-night Eastern Caribbean itinerary on Wonder of the Seas® is a top choice if you want to change things up and go on a unique adventure in each port. Your first destination is Philipsburg, St. Maarten, where you can tour the island on an ATV ...

  24. 6 Top Transatlantic Cruises for 2024

    Departs July 5, 2024. Departure port: New York City (Manhattan or Brooklyn) Starting price: $4,098 per person (plus port taxes and fees) Cruise length: 31 nights. Princess Cruises also offers its ...

  25. Boat tours and river cruises through Moscow: where to take them

    On this map you can see the details of the longest and most classic of the Flotilla Radisson boat tours: 2. Companies that do boat tours on the Moskva River. There are many companies that do cruises on the Moskva River, but the 4 main ones are: Capital River Boat Tour Company (CCK) Mosflot. Flotilla Radisson.

  26. Cruising the Moskva River: A short guide to boat trips in Russia's

    Surprisingly, the luxurious boats are priced rather modestly, and a single ticket goes for $17-$32 (1,100-2,000 rubles); also expect a reasonable restaurant bill on top.

  27. River Cruise on Luxurious Radisson Boat

    Guided tour. 2,5 hours. Популярные , Речные прогулки. Code: 10147. Equipped with ice-breaking technology, these huge fancy yachts are the only river cruisers running all year around. The round trip journey takes two and a half hours and floats past all the big sights like the White House, Novodevichy monastery and the ...