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Peregrine Travel Centre

The Essential Azores Luxury Cruise

The Essential Azores Luxury Cruise

From AUD $8,540

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Description

In the heart of the Atlantic, discover the pristine beauty of the Azores, a volcanic archipelago where nature and culture intertwine. Between emerald landscapes and picturesque villages, each port of call will reveal its own unique character, where the blowing of the whales pierces the horizon and where nature, perfect for hiking, sets the pace. Faial, or “the blue island”, is adorned with dazzling blue hydrangeas, while São Jorge unveils is steep cliffs and its discreet fajãs. Pico, dominated by its volcano, Portugal’s highest summit, tells the history of humanity through its stone vineyards (UNESCO World Heritage Site); Terceira reveals, between its fortifications and colourful little streets, a heritage forged by centuries of maritime history. Discreet Graciosa is the northernmost Azorean island and designated a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO; its appeal lies in its calm, its windmills with red domes and its striking volcanic caves.  

Trip Name
The Essential Azores Luxury Cruise
Days
8
Overview
Vessel Type: Luxury Expedition / Cruise Ship Length: 142 meters Passenger Capacity: 264 (in twin cabins, 200 in Antarctica) Built: 2011 Le Boréal, along with her sisterships L’Austral, Le Soléal, and Le Lyrial, embodies PONANT’s signature blend of luxury, intimacy, and serene well-being. Designed with both conviviality and tranquillity in mind, she offers inviting shared spaces alongside peaceful retreats for moments of quiet escape. Her sleek exterior and refined interiors reflect the careful thought and craftsmanship that define the fleet, with a décor that captures the spirit of a private yacht. Featuring 132 staterooms and suites, she welcomes up to 264 guests in an atmosphere that feels both elegant and personal. Built in 2010 by Fincantieri in Ancona, Italy, Le Boréal measures 466 ft in length, with a beam of 59 ft, an ice-class 1C hull, and eco-design innovations continually updated to improve her environmental performance. With six passenger decks, 11 Zodiacs for exploration, and attentive French-flag service, she is equally at home navigating icy polar waters or warm, sunlit coasts. Life on board combines refined gastronomy, engaging social activities, and immersive excursions, creating a travel experience where elegance meets adventure.

Itinerary



Day 1 - Day 1 - Ponta Delgada, Azores
The coastal city of Ponta Delgada stands on the southern coastline of São Miguel Island, in the Portuguese archipelago of the Azores. On your way to the town centre from the port, youﾒll pass through the Doors to the Sea, a contemporary architectural complex bordering the Atlantic. The historic district features a beautiful square framed by the three Baroque arches of the City Gates. A few steps from the shore youﾒll find the Gothic church of São Sebastião and the Renaissance fortress, Fortaleza de São Brásainsi.
Day 2 - Day 2 - Velas, Azores
On the southern coast of the island of São Jorge lies the port of Vélas. You will be amazed by its cliffs that plunge straight into the sea and the numerous fajãs that dot the shoreline. These curious geological formations result from lava flows reaching the sea, landslides caused by earthquakes, or erosion. Sheltered from the winds, the fajãs, flat stretches of land along the shoreline at the foot of towering cliffs, benefit from fertile soil and a favourable microclimate. Their natural pools of clear water invite you to swim in an exceptional natural setting.
Day 3 - Day 3 - Horta, Azores
Horta, the main town on Faial Island in the Azores, has retained a genuine authenticity and a picturesque charm. As the archipelago’s main marina, it offers the chance to admire the many frescoes painted by sailors from around the world who have stopped on the island. Be sure to visit the town’s museums, including the Scrimshaw Museum, showcasing the local art of carving whale teeth, or marvel at the captivating sight of whales, as Horta is one of the best places to watch these giants of the sea.
Day 4 - Day 4 - Madalena
Perched on the west coast of Pico Island, Madalena captivates visitors with its authenticity and tranquil atmosphere. Set amid enchanting volcanic landscapes, with white houses topped by red roofs, narrow streets, and a bustling harbour, the town opens onto the ocean, with the majestic silhouette of Pico volcano as its backdrop. Here, time seems to slow down, offering the opportunity to enjoy coastal walks, moments of relaxation in one of the many natural pools, wine tastings from UNESCO-listed volcanic vineyards, and friendly encounters.
Day 5 - Day 4 - Lajes do Pico, Azores
Nestled on the south coast of the island of Pico in the Azores archipelago, the charming town of Lajes do Pico is well worth a visit. Its colourful houses and stunning landscapes, steeped in the rich history of the whaling period that made the town famous, are sure to captivate you. Overlooking the town is the highest peak in Portugal, a majestic volcanic mountain rising to an altitude of 2,531 metres (8,300 ft). The unique landscapes of unspoilt nature, from volcanic cliffs to wild coastline, are sure to captivate you.
Day 6 - Day 5 - Praia da Graciosa, Azores
On Graciosa, admire the island’s captivating landscapes, from vineyards surrounded by black basalt walls to rugged shorelines and crystal-clear waters. Its designation as a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve has helped protect the northernmost island of the Azores archipelago from mass tourism. Take a stroll through its narrow streets, showcasing architectural influences from the Algarve and Alentejo, and admire the diverse landscapes, from verdant hills to spectacular volcanic formations.
Day 7 - Day 6 - Praia da Vitória, Azores
Nestled on the island of Terceira, Praia da Vitória charms visitors with its unique atmosphere. Its narrow streets lined with white churches and colourful houses offer a glimpse into the gentle way of life typical of the Azores. The surrounding hills provide striking vistas of the bay and ocean, revealing the raw beauty of the landscapes. With its hikes, ocean vistas and warm encounters, Praia da Vitória carries visitors into a world of authenticity and calm. 
Day 8 - Days 6 - 7 - Angra do Heroísmo, Azores
Situated in the heart of Terceira Island in the Azores archipelago, Angra do Heroísmo was an essential staging post for fleets sailing to Africa and India in the 15th and 16th centuries. Its UNESCO-listed historic centre reflects this golden age, with a grid of streets lined with Renaissance architecture, palaces, imposing churches, noble residences, and meticulously maintained gardens. Born of trade and navigation, Angra do Heroísmo still radiates the refined charm of its prestigious past, offering visitors an atmosphere uniquely shaped by the ocean and history.
Day 9 - Day 8 - Ponta Delgada, Azores
The coastal city of Ponta Delgada stands on the southern coastline of São Miguel Island, in the Portuguese archipelago of the Azores. On your way to the town centre from the port, youﾒll pass through the Doors to the Sea, a contemporary architectural complex bordering the Atlantic. The historic district features a beautiful square framed by the three Baroque arches of the City Gates. A few steps from the shore youﾒll find the Gothic church of São Sebastião and the Renaissance fortress, Fortaleza de São Brásainsi.
Day 10 - Please note:
Itineraries are subject to change. 

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
15-07-202722-07-2027AUD $8,540Superior Stateroom
15-07-202722-07-2027AUD $9,210Deluxe Stateroom
15-07-202722-07-2027AUD $9,690Prestige Deck 4
15-07-202722-07-2027AUD $10,000Prestige Deck 5
15-07-202722-07-2027AUD $10,380Prestige Deck 6
15-07-202722-07-2027AUD $13,990Deluxe Suite
15-07-202722-07-2027AUD $15,050Prestige Deck 5 Suite
15-07-202722-07-2027AUD $15,530Prestige Deck 6 Suite
15-07-202722-07-2027AUD $17,140Owner's Suite

Inclusions

    • An escape discovering six of the nine Azores islands, featuring pristine nature, UNESCO-designated sites and traditional villages.
    • Exploration of unique nature  (volcano, geological formations, vineyards, lush vegetation
    • cedar, juniper and beech trees, ferns, blue hydrangea hedges) and observation of the dance of the whales.
    • A few of the activities planned: included excursions led by local guides.

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