Terceira (PT) – Santa María (PT) – Sao Miguel (PT)

Destination     Terceira (PT) – Santa María (PT) – Sao Miguel (PT)

Dates                  28 Aug (Embark 16h00) – 3 Sep (Disembark 10h00)

HIGHLIGHTS

• Sail between islands aboard a historic ship, exploring the Azores archipelago
• Admire the stunning landscapes and unique trails in Santa Maria
• Visit to the southernmost and least visited island in the Azores
• Observe marine life, including dolphins, whales, blue sharks and rays
• End your visit in Ponta Delgada, São Miguel, the largest and most important island in the Azores

VOYAGE DESCRIPTION

Sail through the Azores from Terceira to Santa Maria, known as the island of the sun. Along the way, there’s a good chance of spotting dolphins, whales, and other marine life.

August is an excellent time to dive in Santa Maria. The waters are warm, visibility is at its best, and encounters with whale sharks, pelagic rays, and blue sharks are more likely. Many scenes from The Island of the Giants, a documentary by BAFTA-winning filmmaker Nuno Sá, were filmed here. A frequent guest aboard the Santa Maria Manuela during scientific expeditions, he captures unique marine behavior. The film was edited by Azorean photographer and editor Pepe Brix. We’ll spend a few days in Santa Maria, giving you time to explore. Local dive centers and guides offer options for both diving and hiking.

On board, help the crew hoist the sails or take the helm and feel the ship respond to your hand on the wheel. Our crew is always keen to share their knowledge and encourage everyone to take part in the sailing.

Join a knot-tying session, swap sea stories with fellow travellers, or—if the weather allows—climb the mast or relax on the bowsprit. Evenings end with a drink on deck as the sun sets.

We finish in Ponta Delgada, São Miguel, the largest island in the Azores. Take time to visit the churches of São Sebastião, São Pedro, and São José, or the Convent and Chapel of Nossa Senhora da Esperança. To the west, the Sete Cidades volcanic lakes are the island’s most iconic natural landmark.

WEATHER

At sea, air temperatures vary between 20°C and 26°C, with waters around 22°C to 24°C. Winds are generally moderate, prevailing from the northwest or north, creating good conditions for sailing. August is the ideal and most stable month in the Atlantic for this voyage.

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 ages of 14 and 80 years old at the time of travel

For this product Portuguese taxation will be applied. If you require an invoice it is necessary to request it to Santa Manuel Manuela S.A. with tax code PT-515 755 028.