Thame Out The complimentary magazine for the Thame area
Portuguese Explorer
Remote and unspoiled, the Azores have been called the Galapagos of the Atlantic or the Hawaii of Europe. Call into Spear Travels and discover how you can cruise this fascinating archipelago with Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines.
CRUISE AROUND THE AZORES
Embark on an incredible journey.
Fred. Olsen’s small ship cruises to the Azores, allowing touring the islands more accessible than ever before. Experience the unique blend of Portuguese and Azorean cultures while enjoying the comfort of your cruise ship, and discover the beauty of the Atlantic Ocean and beyond.
EXPLORE HISTORIC ISLANDS
The remote archipelago of the Azores offers a host of exceptionally diverse, emerald-green islands with volcanic scenery, beautiful lakes and majestic mountains. Once a stopping point for transatlantic flying boats, these islands are rich in history too. The Azores contains two of Portugal’s 15 UNESCO World Heritage sites: the vineyards of Pico and the old town of Angra do Heroismo. The islands have embraced their role as a world-class example of sustainable tourism, and the local government has helped create a network of natural parks and marine reserves to safeguard the unspoiled environment. Once docked, explore the landscapes wonderland of bubbling mud pots, bewildering geology and historic towns. The region is a haven for whale watching, sailing, diving, surfing and hiking – discover its treasures on horseback, bikes or hiking trails.
DISCOVER MORE ABOUT ISLAND LIFE
Azores cruises reveal marvellous, unspoilt volcanic treasures Horta and Praia de Vitória. Ponta Delgada, located on São Miguel Island, offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern-day touches with cobblestone streets, historic architecture, bustling markets, a marina and waterside cafés, all in the shadow of the extinct Sete Cidades Volcano.
WHALE WATCHING IN THE AZORES
The sparkling crystalline waters of the Azores are home to an abundance of magnificent marine mammals including the humpback, minke, blue, sei, and northern bottlenose whales. You may also catch a glimpse of turtles, sunfish or schools of tuna. These resident species live here all year round, giving you a fantastic opportunity to watch them as they breach the surface along the coastline.
VOLCANIC ISLANDS & HIDDEN GEMS OF PORTUGAL • T2416
From Liverpool on the Bolette
06 Jul 2024 (13 nights)
- Discover the Sete Cidades crater lakes from Ponta Delgada
- Search for dolphins and whales from Bolette’s decks with ORCA
- Embrace Portuguese traditions and savour local cuisines
From £1,699pp
Azores Cruise – Portugal Cruise From Liverpool | Fred. Olsen Cruises (fredolsencruises.com)
VOLCANIC ISLANDS OF THE AZORES & MADEIRA • S2417
From Dover on the Borealis
31 Jul 2024 (14 nights)
- Discover more of Portugal’s maritime history in Lisbon
- Admire the blue hydrangeas in full bloom in the Azores
Spot sperm whales and other marine life with ORCA representatives
From £1,999pp
Cruise to the Azores – Madeira Cruise | Fred. Olsen Cruises (fredolsencruises.com)
VOLCANIC ISLANDS OF THE AZORES & MADEIRA • S2420
From Southampton on the Borealis
28 Aug 2024 (14 nights)
- Delve into the Age of Discovery in UNESCO-listed Angra do Heroísmo
- Explore the walking trails and botanical gardens in Madeira
- Spot a variety of marine life from Borealis with wildlife charity ORCA
From £1,999pp
Azores Islands Cruise – Cruise From Madeira | Fred. Olsen Cruises (fredolsencruises.com)
VOLCANIC ISLANDS OF THE AZORES & MADEIRA • S2422
From Southampton on the Borealis
20 Sep 2024 (13 nights)
- Explore Portugal’s maritime history and floral gardens
- Join ORCA conservationists on Borealis’ decks to spot marine life
- Visit the levada walking trails in Madeira
From £1,999pp
Azores Cruise from the UK – Portugal Cruise 2024 | Fred. Olsen Cruises (fredolsencruises.com)
Greyhound Walk, Thame, Oxon OX9 3DY
01844 217228
thame@speartravels.net
www.speartravels.net
You can read more articles like this one in the latest edition of Thame Out.
