Europe’s westernmost islands in the Atlantic – volcanic and lovely, wild and dreamy. When spring revitalises the coastlines, your small expedition ship transforms the Azores into fascinating new territory. Get to know the varied faces of the archipelago intensively when the HANSEATIC spirit calls at seven of the nine islands. Lush, green vegetation, fascinating volcanic landscapes and hikers’ paradises: on impressive excursions, from deck or from the Zodiac – experience a taste of summer in the mild Azores climate. This expedition starts in Santa Maria. The most southern island is famous above all for its sandy beaches. With idyllic views over green mountain ridges and the blue ocean, take a hike to Formosa beach*, where you can enjoy the spring sunshine on the fine sand.

Deep-black rocks, rugged volcanic cones and Portugal’s highest mountain: welcome to Pico. A scenic tour* across the crater island reveals bizarre rock formations and lava fields. With its walls of volcanic rock and the craftsmanship of its cultivation practices, the island’s wine region has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Discover more when you explore Pico’s vineyards on foot*. The history of whaling is still present today. But the only hunt is for the best photos, for which there are good chances on a whale- and dolphin-watching trip*. With enriching presentations from your experts on board, you will delve deep into the world of the ocean giants. 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 and try the Atlantic’s best gin and tonic. You have lots of time, as the HANSEATIC spirit will moor here overnight. Share the passion of volcanologists on a panoramic trip through the volcanic landscape* or on a hike around the Faial Caldera*. On a walk around the crater’s edge, admire the natural sight of the crater, which is around 2 km (1.2 miles) in diameter and 400 m (1,300 ft) deep.

Corvo, the smallest of the Azores, is a paradise for seabirds and marine mammals. The 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 a bit of luck, you might spot sperm whales, Risso’s dolphins and large porpoises in the waters off the coast of Flores. The marvellous marine spectacles do not stop ashore with the seas of vibrant flowers. Nature in the purest sense. The wild and lovely flower island with charming waterfalls invites active discovery and hiking in abundance.

Your route also includes Sao Jorge, whose expansive plateaus and volcanic cones are reminiscent of a dragon. Particularly stunning are the many fajas – lush, green stretches of land formed by cooled lava that spread out at the foot of the steeply sloping coasts. Tropical fruits and even coffee are cultivated here. Get a taste on an excursion with fajas and coffee tasting*. Thousands of cows graze on the evergreen pastures of the highlands. This idyllic landscape and the products of the dairy farmers are the focus of a tour with cheese tasting*.

A hint of the colonial past can still be sensed on the islands today. The capital of the archipelago, Ponta Delgada on Sao Miguel, symbolises vibrant history. Churches, squares and the city hall exude baroque flair that you can soak up on a stroll at your own pace. The green island also enchants visitors with fertile valleys, thermal springs and Europe’s only tea plantation. A jeep tour to the crater lakes of Sete Cidades* – which range from deep blue to turquoise depending on the light – will bring you closer to the creative power of nature. The joys of spring will keep pace with the fantastic panoramas when you discover the hiker’s paradise of Sao Miguel* on foot – with its river valley, waterfalls and beaches. Afterwards, the HANSEATIC spirit sets course for the Portuguese mainland – enough time to relax and reflect on your experiences and enjoy the service on board. Now is the time to decide which of the Azores is the most beautiful. Or was it the exhilarating all-embracing experience that moved you?