OCEAN SAILING AROUND THE AZORES — CONCEPT SAILING EXPEDITION

Discover an archipelago where the ocean meets volcanoes.

Join a unique two-week cruise in one of the most fascinating corners of the Atlantic – the Azores, known for their majestic cliffs, volcanic lakes, encounters with whales and dolphins, and unspoiled nature. This is a voyage that combines true ocean sailing with in-depth exploration of remote, little-known islands.

During the cruise we will cover over 320 nautical miles, visit six islands, and spend around 46 hours under sail, including night approaches, full watch rotations and harbour manoeuvres – with time left for hiking, soaking in hot springs and discovering local flavours ashore.

It is the perfect leg for sailors looking for active, ambitious and beautiful offshore experiences.

ROUTE & ISLAND STAGES

Ponta Delgada – Vila do Porto (Santa Maria)

The first passage – 54 NM – takes us to Santa Maria, the oldest and sunniest island of the archipelago. It is an ideal introduction to the rhythm of the cruise: watchkeeping, working the sails and the first real taste of the open ocean. Ashore you will find colonial architecture, white beaches and the calm, laid-back atmosphere of Vila do Porto.

Vila do Porto – Ponta Delgada (São Miguel)

Returning to São Miguel is a chance to explore the largest island of the Azores and its volcanic landscapes. Here you can expect:

• the mystical crater lakes of Sete Cidades,
• hot springs and fumaroles in Furnas,
• tea and pineapple plantations,
• broad Atlantic panoramas from dramatic viewpoints.

Ponta Delgada – Angra do Heroísmo (Terceira)

The longest passage of the cruise – 91 NM of ocean sailing. A full day and night at sea, with watch rotation, navigation exercises and night approach as we enter one of the most beautiful harbours in the Azores. Angra do Heroísmo, a UNESCO World Heritage site, welcomes us with colonial streets, local wines and a unique historical atmosphere.

Angra – Velas (São Jorge)

Sailing into Velas often means dolphins alongside the bow – this is one of the most characteristic areas of the archipelago. The island of São Jorge, famous for its steep cliffs and volcanic fajãs (lava-flow coastal platforms), offers raw, wild nature at its best.

A must-do here is a tasting of São Jorge cheese, considered one of the finest cheeses in Portugal.

Velas – Santa Cruz da Graciosa (Graciosa)

A short but beautiful leg of 25 NM. Graciosa is a quiet, little-touristed island – the perfect place to relax after more intense passages. Highlights include the volcanic cave Furna do Enxofre, traditional white windmills and a harbour with a peaceful, almost rural feel.

Graciosa – Horta (Faial)

The final passage of the leg finishes in the legendary port of Horta – one of the key meeting points for sailors crossing the Atlantic.

• harbour walls covered in thousands of crew paintings and yacht murals,
• Peter Café Sport – the iconic ocean bar,
• views towards the volcano Pico across the channel.

It is the perfect place to end and celebrate the voyage.

WHY JOIN THIS CRUISE?

• Real ocean sailing in stable summer conditions in the mid-Atlantic,
• Great variety of islands: volcanic lakes, hot springs, cliffs, caves,
• High chance of encounters with dolphins and whales,
• Hands-on sailing – active work on deck plus night watches,
• Harbours with a unique atmosphere and strong ocean-sailing traditions,
• A compact, ambitious voyage for those who want to experience “the real sea”.