The Azores – volcanic and beautiful, wild and dreamlike. Combine all nine islands in the archipelago for a contrast-filled expedition on the small HANSEATIC spirit. Enjoy impressive excursions and independent shore visits in the mild Azores climate that will feel like an extended summer. “Bem-vindo!” Portugal’s autonomous region welcomes you first to Sao Miguel, the largest island in the archipelago. The sun is still strong enough to warm up the long esplanade, charming parks and idyllic plazas of the city of Ponta Delgada. Discover the temperature of the earth’s core with the fumaroles at Furnas. Follow the route into the hiker’s paradise of Sao Miguel* along narrow paths and lush river valleys, passing small waterfalls on the way. An all-terrain vehicle tour across the island* – taking in craters and one of Europe’s few tea plantations – will reveal how natural forces created a bizarre landscape and fertile soil.

The rich contrasts in natural phenomena continue on Graciosa. The “graceful” island with its little villages reveals its idyllic nature on an island tour* – and its nature proves even more untamed around 100 m (328 ft) beneath the earth’s surface: hot springs bubble in a sulphur cave and rising steam creates a mystical atmosphere. Descend into this volcanic wonder on a hike to the Furna do Enxofre*.

Passionate explorers and nature lovers will be in their element on Flores. 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. A walk along ancient island trails* leads you along the bizarre coastal cliffs to stunning views of powerful waterfalls. Corvo, the smallest of the Azores, is a paradise for seabirds and marine mammals. The steep, weathered slopes rise up to a mighty volcanic crater that shapes the landscape. On an independent shore visit, your experts will explain the origins of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and the history of the Mediterranean windmills.

With its high, steep and overgrown coast and the spray from the waves, Sao Jorge is an impressive sight above the deep blue of the ocean. Stroll through the town of Velas to the highlights of the “dragon island”* and follow in the footsteps of Saint George, dragon slayer and patron saint. Alternatively, an excursion with fajas and coffee tasting* takes you to the fertile stretches of land formed by cooled lava, where tropical fruits, vegetables and coffee are cultivated.
Horta’s harbour on Faial is popular with sailors, who use it as a starting point to cross the Atlantic. The HANSEATIC spirit will stay here overnight so that you can spend the evening exploring the old town, its palaces and manor houses at your leisure. Peter Cafe Sport is a famous meeting point for people who have circumnavigated the globe – seize the opportunity to mingle. Sailors’ yarns become living natural history when you go whale and dolphin watching* and learn all about these marine mammals. A hike around the Faial Caldera* prepares the ground for learning about volcanoes. Along the approximately 400 m (1,312 ft) deep crater, gain background knowledge of plate tectonics and eruptions and enjoy views of the crater lakes and the vast ocean. Pico, too, has something exceptional in store. Around 2,300 m (7,546 ft) high, the majestic volcano of the same name overlooks villages whose history was shaped by whaling. A scenic tour across the crater island of Pico* spans its many experiences, 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. Get to know the home of the famous Verdelho wine when you explore Pico’s vineyards on foot*. Surrounded by basalt walls, the white grapes used to make this exquisite beverage are cultivated here. Brightly coloured and crafted by masters in a Renaissance style, Terceira was once one of the most important supply ports for the Portuguese and Spanish. The city walk through Angra do Heroismo*, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, will be filled with magnificent aristocratic residences and churches, town houses and small streets. Dreamy towns and regional delicacies contrast with bizarre lava formations and volcanic caves when you explore Terceira in a jeep*.

Santa Maria was the first island in the archipelago to be inhabited. Take an island tour* and follow in the footsteps of Columbus, who came ashore here on his voyage home in 1493. Or take a coastal hike to Formosa beach* and enjoy the enticing sand and relaxing hours of sunshine. Whatever your tastes, this expedition ensures everyone can enjoy the highs of the Azores.