When spring revitalises coastlines, your small expedition ship transforms the Azores into fascinating new territory. The HANSEATIC spirit calls at all nine islands to let you really come to terms with the multifaceted archipelago – something few ships set out to do. The Zodiacs might also be used, depending on the local conditions. This comprehensive expedition starts in Santa Maria. The most southern island is most famous for its sandy beaches. Take a hike to Formosa beach*, possibly the most beautiful in the Azores. The capital of the Azores, Ponta Delgada on Sao Miguel symbolises the vibrant history of the islands. Churches, squares and the city hall exude baroque flair that you can soak up on a stroll on your own. Travel to the crater lakes of Sete Cidades* and get close to nature’s creative power. Stunning views await at the edge of the caldera. Fumaroles, tea plantations and botanic gardens* – set out on a full-day excursion to see these three spectacles instead.

The island of Sao Jorge seems to await your visit like a sleeping dragon. The high, steep coast is 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, or explore the island on a tour*. Find out what links the typical fajas with coffee tasting* on an excursion to the south coast.

Even from afar, Corvo, the smallest of the Azores, stands out: what looks like a mountain when seen from the sea is revealed to be a volcanic crater when you go ashore with the experts. This isolated, tranquil UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is the perfect place to watch seabirds. With a little luck, you might spot pilot whales, Risso’s dolphins and striped dolphins in the waters off the coast of Flores. The marvellous spectacles do not stop when you go ashore to walk along ancient island trails* through seas of vibrant flowers. Nature in its purest form also awaits you on an island tour*.

Deep-black rocks, rugged volcanic cones and Portugal’s highest mountain: welcome to Pico. A beautiful journey across the crater island* presents you with bizarre rock formations and lava fields. Discover how the nutritious volcanic soil brings the grapevines to life when you explore Pico’s vineyards on foot*. Alternatively, dive deep into the world of the ocean giants on a whale-and-dolphin-watching trip in an RIB*. Horta’s harbour on Faial is steeped in the stories of people who have circumnavigated the globe and who meet in Peter Cafe Sport. Listen to their tales of the high seas or try the Atlantic’s best gin and tonic. Share the passion of volcanologists on a panoramic trip through the volcanic landscape* or on a hike around the Faial Caldera*. Wonders of nature also await you on Graciosa. Idyllic little fishing villages make way for volcanoes, caves and hot springs – as revealed on the hike to the Furna do Enxofre*, which is around 20,000 years old. The creative power of the earth’s core is plain to see on Terceira. Explore the island in a jeep* and marvel at lava formations, natural swimming pools and the interior of a volcanic cave. If you would rather explore the island on your own steam, set out on challenging hikes* through the wild highland or along the coast. To soak up some culture, take a city walk through the UNESCO World Heritage Site Angra do Heroismo*. Attractive white houses, the cathedral and the palace attest to a time when the city was an intermediate stop for overseas trade. Now is the time to decide which of the Azores is the most beautiful. Or was it the exhilarating full experience that moved you?