The HANSEATIC nature’s course is set – everything points west. Feel like the Portuguese settlers and seafarers of old when the peaks of the Atlantic suddenly appear: the Azores are so close yet are still unexplored territory. The mild climate in the Azores allows you to explore lush, volcanic landscapes with deep-blue crater lakes, fertile valleys and hidden coastal towns. Sao Miguel, perhaps the greenest of the islands and home to their capital, Ponta Delgada, is waiting to welcome you. An off-road journey to the crater lakes of Sete Cidades* is crowned by idyllic views from the edge of the caldera. A walk through the hiker’s paradise of Sao Miguel* takes you through dense vegetation in the river valleys to a beach that is probably the most beautiful in the archipelago. The magnificent legacy of what was once one of the most important supply ports for the Portuguese and Spanish awaits you in a picturesque bay on Terceira. Discover the brightly coloured city crafted by masters in a Renaissance style on a walk through Angra do Heroismo*, where cobbled alleys lead you through its centre – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – past charming white houses, churches and the impressive cathedral. For charming scenery, embark on a hike through the wild highlands of Terceira*, where lava fields hint at the most recent volcanic eruption in the 18th century. Over 100 volcanoes, black rocks and blue water add accents to the natural canvas of Pico – named for its volcano, which at more than 2,300 m (7,700 ft) high is Portugal’s highest mountain. Here and throughout the cruise, there are good chances of spotting whales and dolphins. The scenic tour across the crater island of Pico* reveals amazing rugged rock formations, rainforest-like vegetation and former whalers’ villages. Gain an insight into how the famous Verdelho wine is produced with a walk through Pico’s vineyards*. Surrounded by basalt walls, the white grapes used to make this exquisite beverage are cultivated here. Faial is a more cosmopolitan prospect. Every year, thousands of sail boats and yachts moor in Horta, the island’s capital. Its old town is one of the architectural gems of the Azores with its manor houses, museums and churches. When the sun sets on the horizon, join the people who have circumnavigated the globe for a glass of wine in Peter Cafe Sport – there will be plenty of time here for tales of the high seas as the HANSEATIC nature will stay overnight. The next day, nature’s creative power will make an impression with a scenic tour to the Capelinhos volcano*. Explore this bizarre world with an active hike around the Caldeira*, which is around 2 km (1.2 mi.) in diameter, 400 m (1,312 ft) deep and crowned with magnificent views. A new day, a new blissful island: the “dragon island” of Sao Jorge is truly reminiscent of an ancient creature, with its wide, undulating flank shaped by volcanic cones. Take a stroll through the small town of Velas with our experts and trace the story of Saint George – the dragon slayer and the island’s namesake – to the main square with its beautiful pictures in the paving.

The island group of Madeira also includes the rarely visited Ilha Deserta Grande, an uninhabited nature reserve with rare Mediterranean monk seals. If the local authorities give the green light, the Zodiacs will take you ashore for a tour with a local ranger. You’ll leave the islands’ many facets behind as you chart a course for North Africa, but the memories of all that you’ve experienced will stay with you forever.

It may seem familiar but there are many new surprises to be found on the island of eternal spring, Madeira. The capital Funchal welcomes you with a vibrant atmosphere, sitting like an amphitheatre cradled by high mountains. One of the island’s greatest sights is the lush nature itself, as you will discover on a levada hike* along the famous water channels in a stunning setting. A cable-car ride to Monte* treats you to beautiful views of the “island of flowers”. The HANSEATIC nature will stay overnight to give you extra time to soak up the atmosphere: relax and enjoy the southern way of life with an evening stroll through the streets and port. 

Overnight on board