V20 - Azores to Lisbon: Summer Atlantic Crossing

Voyage description

We start our adventure from Terceira, docked in UNESCO-listed Angra do Heroísmo, the Azores' oldest city, with its 16th-century fortress and Renaissance town.
Before embarking consider visiting Algar do Carvão with its 90m-deep volcanic chimney, and the island’s small vineyards and lava-rock bathing pools in Biscoitos are popular tourist sites.

National Geographic elected the Azores archipelago the most beautiful place in the world and there can be no better way to travel from the archipelago back to Lisbon than on board the Santa Maria Manuela.

2024 marks the 40th anniversary of the ban on whaling in the Azores. Since 1984, whale numbers have grown, and they have returned to their old feeding grounds of the Azores. If we get lucky, we can catch sight of one of these magnificent creatures. Sperm whales are the resident species, with blue, fin and sei whales, and bottlenose, Atlantic spotted and common dolphins are also common at this time of year.

This 785 nautical mile blue water crossing is a classic tall ship sailing experience. There´s nothing our crew like more then to share their knowledge of sailing with our guests, and they will encourage you to get actively involved with the ship’s life. Volunteers to hoist and trim the sails speed are always welcome, and the feeling of helming a 68m sailing ship as she responds to the command of the wheel is something to savor.

Knot classes are a great way to learn a new skill whilst sharing sailing stories with shipmates, and if the weather allows there's the opportunity to go up the mast or relax in the bowsprit netting. A drink at sunset on the deck is the perfect way to round off each day.

Lisbon beckons, as we sail up the Rio Tejo beneath the city’s famous suspension bridge, Ponte 25 de Abril. After you disembark consider immersing yourself in the vibrant culture of Lisbon, with its Fado music, historic neighborhoods like Alfama, and stunning viewpoints. Visit the Belem Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Weather:
August graces the Azores with pleasant temperatures ranging from 17°C to 25°C (63°F to 77°F), providing an ideal climate for both sailing and exploring the islands.

When preparing for your voyage please bear in mind:

• Your passport must have at least 6 months validity at the time of travel
• The SMM is granted no flexibility for the embarkation and disembarkation times from the customs authorities
• All guests must be between the age of 14 and 80 yrs at the time of travel