Get an active start to spring with the HANSEATIC spirit and set course for a green island landscape in the vastness of the Atlantic. As a part of Portugal, the Azores are still considered an insider tip. Idyllic and remote, the archipelago particularly enchants hikers and nature lovers. Crater lakes and bizarre volcanic cones, hot springs and black lava fields – a wealth of contrasts that will delight you every day. On impressive excursions, from the deck or from the Zodiac – each island reveals a different character. To start with, Graciosa reveals the temperature of the earth’s core. With its typical windmills, the idyllic and “graceful” scenery can be admired on an island tour* – while 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 mythical landscape. Descend into this volcanic wonder on a hike to the Furna do Enxofre*.

Passionate explorers will be in their element on Flores. Green moss carpets the landscape, hidden crater lakes shimmer in turquoise and steep rocky slopes with cascading waterfalls provide spectacular views. Explore one of the smaller Azores islands with your experts for deep insights into the lush, pristine and still undeveloped nature. With a bit of luck, you can spot sperm whales, Risso’s dolphins and large porpoises off the coast. Keep a constant lookout, as many marine mammals live in the nutrient-rich waters around the Azores. With these natural spectacles, your front-row seat on board is guaranteed.

The wide undulating plateaus shaped by volcanic cones are characteristic of Sao Jorge. Hiking trails along the steep coast, perhaps the most beautiful in the Azores, offer fantastic photo opportunities. Among the highlights of the “dragon Island”* are the traces of the story of Saint George. Follow in the footsteps of the dragon slayer and patron saint on a stroll through the town of Velas. The excursion fajas and coffee tasting* is a delight for the eye and the palate. Tropical fruits, vegetables and coffee are cultivated on the fertile stretches of land formed by cooled lava. Horta’s harbour on Faial is popular with sailors. 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 panoramic trip through the volcanic landscape* prepares the ground for learning about volcanoes. On a hike around the Faial Caldera* along the approximately 400 m (1,312 ft) deep crater, gain background knowledge of plate tectonics and eruptions. 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 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. 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 unique panoramic view of the vineyards and the azure ocean.

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.