V18 - Azores Hop 2: The Natural beauties of Pico and São Jorge

Voyage description

Our voyages in the Azores in 2023 proved so popular that we plan to follow a similar itinerary as we hop through this mid-Atlantic volcanic archipelago. Distances are short allowing plenty of time to explore the islands as well as at least one full day of sailing.

During the journey the captain will decide on the best itinerary based on the weather and sea conditions in order to ensure all guests are comfortable and can get the most of these days.

We start and finish in Terceira, with a stop on Sao Jorge and the rocky shores of Pico Island.

A brief stop on nearby São Jorge, an island of imposing natural beauty, allows us to stretch our legs.  It hides some of the most beautiful trails in the archipelago, natural pools and is known for its delicious cheese.

As we take the short hop over the water to Pico Island, keep an eye open for the resident sperm whale as they hunt in the deep channels for giant squid their favored quarry. Sperm whales are the resident species, along with blue, fin and sei whales. Bottlenose, Atlantic spotted and common dolphins also usual species here at this time of the year.

The serene Pico Island is furthest South in the archipelago, where the people have every right to be proud of their beautiful island, the second largest in the Azores and home to Portugal’s highest mountain, Mount Pico, at 2,351m.

For those with adventure mind, book to climb her slopes. The effort is rewarded by panoramic views which, on a clear day, offer a glimpse of the nearby islands of Faial, Sao Jorge, and Terceira with Graciosa in the distance to the north. (You will require a prebooked guide and a full day (12 hours). This is not a technical climb, but climbers must be very fit and properly equipped). 

Pico’s hot, dry climate, together with the mineral-rich lava soil and the stunning mosaic of black stone "currais" (plots) – makes the island perfect for the cultivation of vines, with its wine now internationally celebrated.  

The extensive lava fields that dot the island’s landscape were declared a World Heritage by UNESCO in 2004. 

We finish our island hopping back on Terceira, docking in 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. 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. 

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:

• 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