Volcanic Vistas of the Azores & Madeira

• Day 1 Liverpool

  Departure: late afternoon

• Day 5 Praia da Vitória

  The Azores archipelago is a melting pot of Portuguese influences, and the capital of Terceira, Praia da Vitoria, offers a captivating blend of lush hills and volcanic vistas once the mist clears. After visiting the Facho viewpoint for panoramic views over the city and its bay, you could delve into the historic fortifications and cobbled streets of the nearby UNESCO World Heritage Site of Angro do Heroismo before strolling along the peaceful marina and sampling freshly caught seafood and local dishes like Azorean beef cooked in a claypot. Meanwhile, nearby Algar do Carvão, an ancient lava tube featuring striking geological formations, begs for exploration.

• Day 6 Ponta Delgada, Azores

  During your visit to the island of São Miguel, home to beautiful mountains, sandy beaches, and the famous twin crater lakes of the extinct Sete Cidades Volcano, there will also be the opportunity to explore Lagoa do Fogo, one of the highest crater lakes on the island, offering glorious autumnal scenery. You may choose to relax in the natural hot springs of Furnas Valley, surrounded by lush greenery and cascading waterfalls, or try the local delicacy of ‘Cozido das Furnas’, a hearty stew cooked underground by the heat of volcanic activity. You’ll also be ideally placed to taste the island’s tea at Europe’s only tea plantation, Gorreana, sample a sweet local pineapple, as it’s quite possible to experience four seasons in one day, so crops are plentiful, or join an exhilarating whale-watching tour.

• Day 7 Cruise by Cabo Girao

  Madeira's highest sea cliff, Cabo Girao, seems to loom high over the village of Câmara de Lobos. It is the second tallest sea cliff in the world and was created by extensive volcanic activity in this part of the Atlantic Ocean. Translated as Cape of Return, Sea Captain João Gonçalves Zarco is said to have turned his ship around here in the 15th century, as the cliff was so intimidating, he deemed it must be a place of demons and beasts.

• Day 9 Funchal, Madeira

  Take advantage of your overnight stay in Madeira and explore the vibrant capital of Funchal, with its historic charm and scenic beauty. Immerse yourself in local life as you wander through the colourful Mercado dos Lavradores, sampling exotic fruits and local delicacies, or embark on a dolphin and whale watching tour from the marina. Discover how the renowned Madeira wine is produced in the same way as it was centuries ago, and savour it’s notes of caramel and toffee.  The cable car to Monte offers panoramic views across the city and bay, and the stunning landscapes and diverse range of flora at the Botanical Gardens are not to be missed. The Frederico de Freitas Museum and Sé Cathedral offer an insight into the cultural heritage of this beautiful island.

• Day 11 Lisbon

  Overlooking the River Tagus, Portugal’s capital city offers an abundance of maritime highlights, including the iconic Ponte de Abril Suspension Bridge, and the UNESCO-listed Belém Tower, which served as an embarkation and disembarkation point for Vasco de Gama and other Portuguese explorers. The delicious pastéis de nata are also not to be missed when visiting Lisbon, particularly when sampled at the original bakery, which opened in 1837.

• Day 11 Cruise Mouth of River Tagus

  As your ship sails into Lisbon along the Tagus River and under the iconic 25 de Abril Bridge, you can witness prominent Portuguese landmarks punctuating the skyline from the unique viewpoint of the sea. The majestic Belém Tower stands proudly at the water’s edge as a testament to the Age of Discovery, while nearby the Monument to the Discoveries commemorates the country’s explorers, Vasco de Gama and Henry the Navigator. Meanwhile, in the distance, you will also be able to see São Jorge Castle, overlooking the historic Alfama District.

• Day 11 Cruise by Cristo Rei & Abril 25 Bridge

  Inspired by Rio de Janeiro’s Christ the Redeemer Statue, Lisbon’s Cristo Rei watches over the Tagus River and the renowned 25 de Abril Bridge, Europe’s longest suspension bridge, which closely resembles the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, both of which you can witness from the decks of your smaller sized ship as you glide past. A symbol of peace and freedom, it’s located at the highest point in the region and is surrounded by beautifully manicured gardens and sculptures.

• Day 14 Liverpool

  Arrival: early morning

Volcanic Vistas of the Azores & Madeira Itinerary