The Essential Azores Luxury Cruise

The coastal city of Ponta Delgada stands on the southern coastline of São Miguel Island, in the Portuguese archipelago of the Azores. On your way to the town centre from the port, youﾒll pass through the Doors to the Sea, a contemporary architectural complex bordering the Atlantic. The historic district features a beautiful square framed by the three Baroque arches of the City Gates. A few steps from the shore youﾒll find the Gothic church of São Sebastião and the Renaissance fortress, Fortaleza de São Brásainsi.

On the southern coast of the island of São Jorge lies the port of Vélas. You will be amazed by its cliffs that plunge straight into the sea and the numerous fajãs that dot the shoreline. These curious geological formations result from lava flows reaching the sea, landslides caused by earthquakes, or erosion. Sheltered from the winds, the fajãs, flat stretches of land along the shoreline at the foot of towering cliffs, benefit from fertile soil and a favourable microclimate. Their natural pools of clear water invite you to swim in an exceptional natural setting.

Horta, the main town on Faial Island in the Azores, has retained a genuine authenticity and a picturesque charm. As the archipelago’s main marina, it offers the chance to admire the many frescoes painted by sailors from around the world who have stopped on the island. Be sure to visit the town’s museums, including the Scrimshaw Museum, showcasing the local art of carving whale teeth, or marvel at the captivating sight of whales, as Horta is one of the best places to watch these giants of the sea.

Perched on the west coast of Pico Island, Madalena captivates visitors with its authenticity and tranquil atmosphere. Set amid enchanting volcanic landscapes, with white houses topped by red roofs, narrow streets, and a bustling harbour, the town opens onto the ocean, with the majestic silhouette of Pico volcano as its backdrop. Here, time seems to slow down, offering the opportunity to enjoy coastal walks, moments of relaxation in one of the many natural pools, wine tastings from UNESCO-listed volcanic vineyards, and friendly encounters.

Nestled on the south coast of the island of Pico in the Azores archipelago, the charming town of Lajes do Pico is well worth a visit. Its colourful houses and stunning landscapes, steeped in the rich history of the whaling period that made the town famous, are sure to captivate you. Overlooking the town is the highest peak in Portugal, a majestic volcanic mountain rising to an altitude of 2,531 metres (8,300 ft). The unique landscapes of unspoilt nature, from volcanic cliffs to wild coastline, are sure to captivate you.

On Graciosa, admire the island’s captivating landscapes, from vineyards surrounded by black basalt walls to rugged shorelines and crystal-clear waters. Its designation as a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve has helped protect the northernmost island of the Azores archipelago from mass tourism. Take a stroll through its narrow streets, showcasing architectural influences from the Algarve and Alentejo, and admire the diverse landscapes, from verdant hills to spectacular volcanic formations.

Nestled on the island of Terceira, Praia da Vitória charms visitors with its unique atmosphere. Its narrow streets lined with white churches and colourful houses offer a glimpse into the gentle way of life typical of the Azores. The surrounding hills provide striking vistas of the bay and ocean, revealing the raw beauty of the landscapes. With its hikes, ocean vistas and warm encounters, Praia da Vitória carries visitors into a world of authenticity and calm. 

Situated in the heart of Terceira Island in the Azores archipelago, Angra do Heroísmo was an essential staging post for fleets sailing to Africa and India in the 15th and 16th centuries. Its UNESCO-listed historic centre reflects this golden age, with a grid of streets lined with Renaissance architecture, palaces, imposing churches, noble residences, and meticulously maintained gardens. Born of trade and navigation, Angra do Heroísmo still radiates the refined charm of its prestigious past, offering visitors an atmosphere uniquely shaped by the ocean and history.

The coastal city of Ponta Delgada stands on the southern coastline of São Miguel Island, in the Portuguese archipelago of the Azores. On your way to the town centre from the port, youﾒll pass through the Doors to the Sea, a contemporary architectural complex bordering the Atlantic. The historic district features a beautiful square framed by the three Baroque arches of the City Gates. A few steps from the shore youﾒll find the Gothic church of São Sebastião and the Renaissance fortress, Fortaleza de São Brásainsi.

Itineraries are subject to change. 

Vessel Type: Luxury Expedition / Cruise Ship

Length: 142 metres

Passenger Capacity: 264 (200 in Antarctica)

Built: 2011

L’Austral is a sleek, French-designed expedition yacht combining modern elegance with an intimate atmosphere. With just 132 staterooms for 264 guests, she offers the refined feel of a private yacht, enhanced by attentive service and stylish interiors featuring fine materials, harmonious colours, and discreet touches of brightness. Built by Fincantieri in Ancona, Italy, she is 466 ft long with a 59 ft beam, ice-class certified (1C), and equipped with the latest eco-design innovations, continually upgraded to improve environmental performance.

Designed for both polar adventures and tropical voyages, L’Austral features six guest decks, elegant dining venues, and 11 Zodiacs for immersive exploration. Life on board blends relaxation and discovery, with refined gastronomy, welcoming social spaces, and an emphasis on responsible travel. From the subantarctic islands to sunlit coasts, she offers a chic and comfortable way to experience the world, always with PONANT’s signature style of elegance, intimacy, and connection to the sea.

Vessel Type: Luxury Expedition / Cruise Ship

Length: 142 meters

Passenger Capacity: 264 (in twin cabins, 200 in Antarctica)

Built: 2011

Le Boréal, along with her sisterships L’Austral, Le Soléal, and Le Lyrial, embodies PONANT’s signature blend of luxury, intimacy, and serene well-being. Designed with both conviviality and tranquillity in mind, she offers inviting shared spaces alongside peaceful retreats for moments of quiet escape. Her sleek exterior and refined interiors reflect the careful thought and craftsmanship that define the fleet, with a décor that captures the spirit of a private yacht. Featuring 132 staterooms and suites, she welcomes up to 264 guests in an atmosphere that feels both elegant and personal.

Built in 2010 by Fincantieri in Ancona, Italy, Le Boréal measures 466 ft in length, with a beam of 59 ft, an ice-class 1C hull, and eco-design innovations continually updated to improve her environmental performance. With six passenger decks, 11 Zodiacs for exploration, and attentive French-flag service, she is equally at home navigating icy polar waters or warm, sunlit coasts. Life on board combines refined gastronomy, engaging social activities, and immersive excursions, creating a travel experience where elegance meets adventure.