Without the hassle of daily packing: Hapag-Lloyd Cruises to visit all the islands of the Azores in 2026

On expedition with Hapag-Lloyd Cruises through the green natural paradise of the Azores in the Atlantic: in 2026, guests on the HANSEATIC nature can explore all the inhabited Azores islands on one cruise – from steaming volcanoes and whale watching to cultural treasures. No other provider currently offers this route in a comparable form. In-depth knowledge, local expertise and flexible Zodiac explorations make every route a special experience. A crew-to-guest ratio of almost 1:1 ensures a high standard of service on board and enables individual attention in a personal atmosphere.

Island-hopping in the Azores is like a journey through many diverse worlds: each of the nine islands has its own unique character, but they are all connected by the wild, green beauty of the archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean. As the leading provider of luxury and expedition cruises in the German-speaking region, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises offers a route that includes all the inhabited Azores islands: a natural paradise in Portugal that is still considered an insider tip thanks to its diversity. What would otherwise only be possible with careful flight planning and several island transfers can be experienced in a relaxed way on this cruise. Without constant packing and the hassle of transfers, one discovery will seamlessly follow another. With its shallow draught and on-board fleet of Zodiacs, the manoeuvrable expedition ship can reach even remote coasts and landing points, including isolated harbours such as Porto da Casa on Corvo, the smallest island in the Azores. 

Deepening one’s knowledge, understanding nature

A team of scientific experts will accompany the expedition and provide in-depth knowledge about biological, geological and cultural phenomena. This is done through presentations on board as well as during guided landings and excursions. The experience is complemented by local guides who join the expedition at selected points and provide valuable insights with their insider knowledge. 

Hiking enthusiasts can look forward to ideal conditions in the Azores. Easily accessible trails lead through dense laurel forests, along coastlines and up volcanic slopes. Those who explore the landscape on foot will discover its diversity, whether at a leisurely pace or with more athletic ambitions.

The HANSEATIC nature offers many open deck areas, including a freely accessible bow area, the nature Walk, an Observation Deck above the bridge as well as extendible glass balconies and high windows offering extensive views.

Volcanic islands with botanical diversity

Amidst lush nature as well as tea plantations and vineyards, the Azores resemble a giant greenhouse. Due to the archipelago’s location where three tectonic plates meet, its landscape is strongly influenced by volcanism: steaming fumaroles, impressive crater lakes and natural hot springs bear witness to the immense power of the planet Earth. A species-rich flora and fauna, some of which is only found here, makes this scenery a natural paradise. For example, the rare Azores bellflower blooms from May to October in crevices in the cliffs. The waters around the islands are among the best places in the world for observing sperm whales, blue whales and numerous species of dolphins. Spontaneous explorations are also possible with the Zodiacs when the weather conditions are right.

Culture, cuisine and cavaquinho sounds

Each island of the Azores preserves cultural traditions that are expressed in the Festas do Espirito Santo, the festivals of the Holy Spirit, and the sounds of the cavaquinho. This instrument is one of the precursors of the Hawaiian ukulele. It originally comes from Portugal and spread via Madeira and the Azores to Brazil. Culinary specialities also highlight the individuality of the islands: cheese from Sao Jorge is produced in small creameries, pineapples grow on Sao Miguel and vines have been cultivated on Pico for centuries. Attentive guests will also find local products on the menu of the three on-board restaurants.

Sample cruises: Azores, spring 2026

Expedition Azores – a Garden of Eden spread over nine islands
On this expedition cruise, guests will discover the entire archipelago of the Azores. Set amidst volcanic craters, lush flora and a rich marine world, the itinerary includes Graciosa, Flores, Corvo, Sao Jorge, Faial, Pico and Terceira. From Sao Miguel (Azores) to Sao Miguel (Azores), from 3 May to 13 May 2026 (10 days). Bookable in the SILVER fare from € 7,170 per person, double occupancy, including travel package to and from departure and arrival points. For more information, visit: www.hl-cruises.com/NAT2609 

Expedition Azores – ninefold highs of the Azores
The HANSEATIC nature takes its guests on another intensive exploration of all nine Azores islands. Nature lovers will experience volcanic landscapes, whale watching and unspoilt villages. From Sao Miguel via Graciosa, Flores, Corvo, Sao Jorge, Faial, Pico and Terceira to Leixoes (Porto), from 13 May to 26 May 2026 (13 days). Bookable in the SILVER fare from € 7,710 per person, double occupancy, including travel package to and from departure and arrival points. For more information, visit: www.hl-cruises.com/NAT2610