In the vast expanse of the Atlantic, Europe packs more diversity into a relatively small space than anywhere else: volcanic and charming, wild and idyllic – where contrasts meet, the HANSEATIC spirit will take you along for new insights into seemingly familiar island worlds. The mild Azores climate provides a pleasant setting for your impressive excursions and individual shore visits and for the many relaxing activities on deck. First you will explore Sao Miguel, perhaps the greenest idyll in the archipelago. The capital of the Azores, Ponta Delgada symbolises the vibrant history of the islands. Churches, squares and the city hall exude baroque flair. Discover the beauty of the era as you stroll the city at your own pace. Travel in an all-terrain vehicle to the crater lakes of Sete Cidades* and get close to nature’s creative power. Stunning views await at the edge of the caldera. Want to get active and explore the island? Then walk through the hiker’s paradise of Sao Miguel* along narrow paths and lush river valleys, passing small waterfalls on the way. On Terceira, one of the most important supply ports of the Portuguese and Spanish will be revealed to you, with magnificent aristocratic residences and churches, townhouses and small streets. Discover the brightly coloured city crafted by masters in a Renaissance style on a city walk through Angra do Heroismo*, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Experience the wild, untouched landscape on a hike through the highlands of Terceira*. Black lava fields alternate with small lakes, heathland and hot springs. The seldom-visited Azores island of Flores marks Europe’s most westerly point. The UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is an insider tip for nature lovers: green moss carpets the landscape, hidden crater lakes shimmer in turquoise and steep rocky slopes provide spectacular views. Get to know the flower island of Flores* from surprising perspectives: on your tour, you will encounter the imposing Rocha dos Bordoes, mighty basalt columns that rise up to 30 m (98 ft) out of the landscape like organ pipes. In Faja Grande, the powerful waterfalls will take your breath away. Pico too has something exceptional in store. Over 2,300 m (7,546 ft) high, the majestic volcano of the same name overlooks villages whose history was shaped by whaling. A tour spans the many experiences on the crater island of Pico*, from lava fields to natural swimming pools and a visit to the whaling museum. With a little luck, you will have the opportunity throughout the cruise to watch whales and dolphins off the coast. Explore the home of the famous Verdelho wine on a walk through Pico’s vineyards*. Surrounded by basalt walls, the white grapes used to make this exquisite beverage are cultivated here. Along the coast, enjoy a panoramic view of the vineyards and the azure ocean all the way to the picturesque islands of Madalena. Horta’s harbour on Faial is popular with sailors, who set out across the Atlantic in their yachts. Peter Cafe Sport is a famous meeting point for people who have circumnavigated the globe – seize the opportunity to mingle. The HANSEATIC spirit will stay here overnight, allowing you to enjoy its flair long after the sun has set. The following day of exploration is all about volcanoes. Take a scenic tour to the Capelinhos volcano* on the western tip of the island and discover a work of art created by nature. Learn fascinating background information about plate tectonics and eruptions. For those who love exercise, a hike along the caldera* of the around 400 m (1,312 ft) deep crater offers a stunning view of the crater lakes and the vast ocean. The island of Sao Jorge seems to await your visit like a sleeping dragon. Its high, steep coast and the spray from the waves are an impressive sight above the deep blue of the ocean. Stroll through the small town of Velas and trace the story of Saint George, dragon slayer and patron saint. The dreamy charms of Santa Maria, the most southerly of the Azores, are best experienced at your own pace as soon as the HANSEATIC spirit docks in the harbour. Take a walking tour of the oldest town in the Azores and wander along the main street lined with cafes.

The natural wonders on Madeira celebrate a very different, floral “Oktoberfest”. Like an amphitheatre with spectacular mountains, Funchal is the perfect setting for impressive discoveries. The island capital is a delight to discover alone – and to explore Funchal in a Twizy* is to experience something special. Heading inland on foot, feel the allure of unspoilt nature on a levada hike* on flat paths along the unique irrigation system. The manoeuvrability of the HANSEATIC spirit also takes you to its seldom-visited sister island: Selvagem Grande. Subject to official approval, you will walk across the “wild island” with local rangers to find out about geckos, Scopoli’s shearwaters and endemic plants. Images of these delicate yet rugged, volcanic yet idyllic island beauties will stay with you forever.