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Itinerary: Sao Miguel – Faial – Terceira
Dates: 6 August (Embark 16h00) - 11 August (Disembark 10h00)
Voyage highlights
Voyage description
Our voyages around the Azorean Archipelago in 2023 proved so popular that we plan to follow a similar itinerary as we hop through this impressive mid-Atlantic volcanic archipelago. Distances are short allowing plenty of time to explore the islands, but we start with a 36 hour crossing from Sao Miguel to the central islands of Faial and Terceira.
We start our voyage in the cosmopolitan Mid-Atlantic city of Ponta Delgada, outward looking, with a thriving economy and lively culture. If time allows, plan to arrive early and explore the island.
Boasting a history of over five centuries, Ponta Delgada is a multifaceted city where tradition lives hand-in-hand with the present. Be sure to visit the Igreja de São Sebastião, the Igreja de São Pedro and Igreja São José, and the Convent and Chapel of Nossa Senhora da Esperança. To the west lie Sete Cidades volcanic lakes, a testament to the island's fiery past, and the Azores' most recognized natural monument.
As we sail west keep an eye open for sperm whales hunting in the deep channels for giant squid, and there’s always a chance to sight blue, fin and sei whales. Bottlenose, Atlantic spotted and common dolphins are also found here at this time of the year.
We sail into the Sao Jorge Channel under imposing shadow of Mt. Pico which dominates the horizon. A stop on nearby Faial offers the chance to visit Horta and it’s the famous Peter's Café Sport bar frequented by yachtsmen since 1918. Marvel at the kaleidoscope of colors that adorn the marina, a centuries old canvas painted by sailors from around the world, leaving their mark on this seafaring haven, and delve into the fascinating world of marine giants at the Whale Museum; a reminder of the need to protect this fragile ecosystem.
We finish our island-hopping adventure on Terceira Island, anchoring in the bay of UNESCO-listed Angra do Heroísmo, the Azores' oldest city, with its 16th-century fortress and Renaissance town. We disembark after a sumptuous deck BBQ and an evening of celebrations with fellow shipmates. If you have time, consider visiting Algar do Carvão with its 90m-deep volcanic chimney, or the island’s vineyards and lava-rock bathing pools in Biscoitos.
Weather:
In August, the Azores enjoy a delightful climate, characterized by mild temperatures and balmy sea breezes. Expect daytime temperatures averaging 24°C (75°F), ideal for both sailing and land-based exploration.
When preparing for your voyage please bear in mind:
The quality and variety of the food exceeded our expectations, and the cleanliness and beauty
of the ship added a unique touch to our trip.
Agustin, Italy
The trip was even more beautiful and exciting than the pictures. Photos cannot begin to reflect
the experience.
Irmgard, Germany
Wonderful days, beautiful places, fantastic dives and a great crew.
Maria João, Portugal
The crew displayed exceptional humor and was always ready to assist us and answer our
questions, making our journey even more special.
Agustin, Italy
Absolutely loved the trip from Lisbon. Such a beautiful ship - have fallen completely in love
with her and can't wait to book the next trip.
Kerstin, Denmark
The staff were delightful and always on hand when needed and I would definitely consider
another voyage on the SMM & recommend to others.
Frances, UK
Hemos tenido una experiencia maravillosa gracias a la gestión de SMM. Totalmente
recomendable!
Susana – Spain
The best experience lived as a sailor and more in the spectacular Azores.
Antonio, Seville
The quality and variety of the food exceeded our expectations, and the cleanliness and beauty
of the ship added a unique touch to our trip.
Agustin, Italy
The trip between Lisbon and Funchal was really exceptional thanks to the kindness and professionalism of the crew that was always available to answer all our requests. A trip far too short.
It was my first cruise aboard Santa Maria Manuela but it will certainly not be the last.
Catherine - France
It was a wonderful journey. The ship is beautiful and in a perfect condition, we felt
comfortable at any time, thanks to the gentle team. The meals were very tasteful (thanks to
the cook!).
Katrin - Holland
We want to say THANK YOU to all the crew they all were so helpful. Nothing was too much
trouble. If the world would follow Santa Maria Manuela’s example, we would all live in a
better place.
Peter & Ron, UK
It was obvious that the crew was very capable of doing everything without the help of the passengers, but I loved that they wanted us to be involved and gave us tasks that we could do. It is also evident how important safety on board is and I was impressed to see all of the crew members in harnesses and helmets whenever they were in slightly precarious positions preparing a sail to be raised or fixing something.
Sailwiz – Spain
The trip was absolutely incredible. I am extremely impressed with the ship and the crew. I felt very at home on board and the crew was so kind, helpful and knowledgeable. I feel like I learned so much about the ship and navigation and I know many of the other passengers feel the same. I truly enjoyed the trip and hope that I will go aboard again.
Julia – USA
My friends and familly are all '50 shades of green' with envy. Thankyou from Andrew and me to you and the crew for an experience of a lifetime.
Gordon - Scotland
As for the trip to Madeira was the best experiences I have had and I take the opportunity to congratulate your team and crew who are fantastic ...
Tiago, Portugal
We want to say THANK YOU to all the crew they all were so helpful. Nothing was too much trouble. If the world would follow Santa Maria Manuela’s example we would all live in a better place.
Peter & Ron, UK
Absolutely loved the trip from Lisbon. Such a beautiful ship - have fallen completely in love with her and can't wait to book the next trip.
Kerstin, Denmark
It was a wonderful journey. The ship is beautiful and in a perfect condition, we felt comfortable at any time, thanks to the gentle team. The meals were very tasteful (thanks to the cook!).
Katrin - Holland
We really enjoyed our Madeira-Tenerife crossing onboard SMM. Great crew, fantastic downwind sailing, pleasant ‘guests’.
Pierre - France
I can't imagine the Santa Maria Manuela having a bigger fan than me. It was a remarkable experience and I really enjoyed getting to know the crew as well as all of the passengers. It was a great group of people to spend 6 days with.
Sailwiz - Spain
The crew took good care of us, I just hope they enjoyed the trip as much as we did. Could not have been any better.
Irmgard – Germany
Without a doubt, this year the best experience I had was being on board Santa Maria Manuela. The days on board were extraordinary. Crew 5⭐
Nuno - Portugal