Sao Miguel - Hamburg Azores and Channel Islands: from Atlantic wonderlands to rarities of nature up close

Pico, dominated by Portugal’s highest mountain at more than 2,300 m (7,546 ft) – which also gives its name to the island – is home to volcanoes and whales. Discover the secrets of the crater island between bizarre, rugged rock formations and lush green vegetation. With its walls of volcanic rock and the craftsmanship of its cultivation practices, its wine region has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Find out more when you explore Pico with your experts. The history of whaling is also present here – but all that’s hunted here today are the best photos and the chances of capturing those are good. On board, your knowledge will be enriched with interesting expert presentations: immerse yourself in the world of the giants of the seas.

The island of Faial in the Azores is known for its cosmopolitan flair – with the famous Peter Cafe Sport in Horta’s harbour, a mix of coffee house and tavern that has become a meeting point for sailors from all over the world. Listen to their tales of the high seas and try the Atlantic’s best gin and tonic. With idyllic views over Pico, the marina is a great place for a stroll along the harbour walls with “artworks” painted by the sailors. It is said that those who don’t leave something behind for posterity will have bad luck with the weather on their onward journeys. Learn all about volcanology when you visit the Capelinhos volcano* – around 12,000 years old, the caldera has a diameter of some 2 km (1.2 miles). Enjoy the views of the island on a circumnavigation of the volcano.

When your expedition ship reaches Terceira , you will travel back in time. Where the first Portuguese settlers set foot on dry land in the 15th century, your pioneering spirit will also be brought to life. The island was already on the transatlantic trade routes in the 16th and 17th centuries. Angra do Heroismo, once a supply port for Spain and Portugal, is now considered the most beautiful town in the Azores and has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In its narrow streets, the typical white houses, the cathedral and the palace have a story to tell of times gone by. As well as the rich culture and history of the island, Terceira’s landscapes are also impressive: featuring hot springs, fumaroles and caves with lava tubes of basalt stalactites and stalagmites. The hike* through the wild highlands is one of the most beautiful routes on the island and takes you through unspoilt natural scenery.

Welcome to Leixoes, gateway to lively Porto – a place full of discoveries that will get any culture lover’s heart beating faster. The city on the banks of the Douro is a labyrinth of narrow streets, steep steps and magnificent baroque facades. Here, the glorious past meets the vibrant present day. How about some sightseeing with a trip on the historic trams? As home to the world-famous port, Porto’s wine cellars are inviting. The iconic Ribeira in the heart of the old town is a kaleidoscope of colours and the sounds of fado, just waiting to be discovered. If you are interested in architecture, you can look forward to a wealth of discoveries, including the Gothic Se do Porto cathedral and the famous Ponte Maria Pia iron railway bridge over the Douro built by Gustav Eiffel.

A pearl of Galicia: Vigo lies waiting to be discovered on a deep inlet on the wild Atlantic coast of north-west Spain. The scent of salt and adventure hangs in the air here. As you approach along the Ria de Vigo, you will be cruising through waters laden with history: galleons still carrying gold from America are said to lie on the sea bed here. In the past, the city was repeatedly subjected to pirate attacks, as you can see from the ruins of the defensive walls. On arrival, you will feel the vibrancy of Europe’s biggest fishing port, which is at the heart of this lively coastal city. Wander through the narrow streets of the historic Casco Vello district. The Parque de Castrelos with its manor houses and gardens is the green soul of the city. Whether you follow the trail of seafarers and pirates or enjoy the Galician cuisine, Vigo combines the best of land, sea and culture to deliver an unforgettable experience.

Picturesque Douarnenez is situated in one of the prettiest bays in Brittany. France’s maritime history is brought to life here, whether you take a walk along the promenade and along the quay to the port museum or in the marina. Follow the “Sardine path” to learn how closely the town is linked with the growth of the sardine industry. Walk through the narrow streets with their charming cafes and traditional bakeries, filled with the scent of fresh Kouign-amann – traditional Breton dough pastries. Tiny Ile Tristan, which seems to float in the bay, is sure to catch your eye as you explore: when the tides allow access to the island, its secrets will be revealed in a garden hidden behind high walls with idyllic footpaths and a fortress. Has your curiosity been roused for more cultural treasures? From Douarnenez, you can discover some architectural gems of Brittany.

The Channel Island of Jersey welcomes you with a magnificent natural spectacle: rugged cliffs and smooth sandy beaches alternate along the coast. Gorey is another place of contrasts: the small fishing village is enchanting with its colourful houses dominated by the impressive Mont Orgueil Castle. Relics and mysteries of the medieval castle and a Mediterranean atmosphere in its picturesque bays – Jersey is a wonderful place for hikes and panoramic views.

The smallest of the Channel Islands is Herm, a gem of natural beauty. This car-free, peaceful island has beaches and palm trees reminiscent of the Caribbean. Hike along the cliff path, discover wild flowers and enjoy the warm welcome in the island’s only village. If the conditions allow, you will go an exciting Zodiac ride – where you might spot some seals.

Guernsey, the pearl of the Channel Islands, is enticing with its breathtaking coastlines, hidden bays and turbulent history. Its natural landscapes inspired Renoir, and the author Victor Hugo also lived here for a while. The gardens around Saint Peter Port are the perfect subject for an impressionist painting. Discover the picturesque town, explore the mystical fortress, and enjoy the peace and quiet of the spectacular cliff path.

The rocky island of Sark is a little paradise with only about 500 inhabitants. And what more stylish way to experience this idyll than on a carriage ride to the wonderful lords’ gardens? The walk to the La Seigneurie Gardens, which surround the majestic 18th-century manor house, is also impressive. Marvel at how the mild climate of the Gulf Stream has allowed a diverse range of splendid and exotic plants to bloom.

The rich flora and fauna of Alderney in the middle of the English Channel paint an unforgettable picture. The island is a genuine treasure chest of natural beauties, varied wild landscapes and historic sites just waiting to be discovered. Explore the footpaths along the coast with your experts or independently and enjoy the impressive views of cliffs, bays and birds’ nesting sites. The experts on board will tell you all about the island’s history, but old fortresses also have their own stories to tell about their strategic role, while the colourful streets and pubs of Alderney reveal its cosy side. The lighthouse built in 1912 is also a picturesque spot.

You have probably heard a lot about this island and perhaps even visited it – but you won’t yet have explored it with the pioneering spirit of Hapag-Lloyd Cruises: Helgoland. Like a lighthouse built of red brick, Lange Anna on the north-western tip of the island shows birdwatchers the way. Right next to the famous rock is one of the world’s smallest nature reserves, the Lummenfelsen. With a bit of luck, you will be able to spot various species of gull and guillemots, as well as seals and grey seals, from the deck. In the shadow of the rock that rises up almost 50 m (164 ft) out of the sea, the ship’s experts will shed light on the ornithological and geological features of the island. If the local conditions permit, the Zodiacs will be put to use for a true expedition experience. Lange Anna, a natural landmark, adds a final exclamation point to the wealth of contrasts discovered in unchartered territory almost right on your doorstep.