This unique eco voyage is hosted by one of Portugal’s leading marine biologists offering an insight into Flores’ pristine marine biodiversity, and the chance to get actively involved in eco workshops aboard.
Our Azorean sailing adventure starts and finishes in Terceira, with an open ocean crossing to the beautiful island of Flores, the western most island of this mid Atlantic archipelago, designated an UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. We spend 2 days in this lush green paradise where waterfalls and volcanic lagoons abound.
Take advantage of the Santa Maria Manuela’s zodiacs, and our crew’s adventurous spirit by exploring the hidden sea caves and rock formations and swimming in secluded bays.
Consider hiking to one of the islands many waterfalls. The majestic Ribeira Grande Waterfall plummets from a granite wall on the west of the island. In contrast, but equally striking, the tiny waterfall of Ribeira da Cruz drops into a hidden pond, in a deep the valley. The most famous of the Flores waterfalls is Ribeira do Ferreiro in the Morro Alto Forest Reserve, with its walls totally covered in dense vegetation, or more accessible is Poço do Bacalhau waterfall which drops 90 meters into a plunge pool ideal for a refreshing dip.
Or save your legs, and book a bus tour to visit some of the seven lakes of Lagoa Rasa, Lagoa Funda, Lagoa Seca, Lagoa Branca and Lagoa da Lomba.
Over the water is Corvo Island and the chance to explore Monte Gorde Volcano.
Whilst aboard there’s always time to learn. Led by our onboard marine biologist, and ably supported by our crew, our Manta Net and microscope, donated to us by Waste Free Oceans, allow us to collect and analyze water samples
After our island adventure the crew will be eager to hoist the sails and head east. There´s nothing our crew like more then to share their knowledge of sailing with our guests, and they will encourage you to get actively involved in the ship’s life. Volunteers to hoist and trim the sails for best speed will be most welcome. The feeling of helming a 68m sailing ship as she responds to the command of the wheel is something to savor forever.
Knot classes are a great way to learn a new skill whilst sharing sailing stories with shipmates, and if the weather allows there's the opportunity to go up the mast or relax in the bowsprit netting. A drink at sunset on the deck is the perfect way to round off each day.
We finish our voyage on Terceira Island anchoring in the bay of UNESCO-listed Angra do Heroísmo, the Azores' oldest city, with its 16th-century fortress and Renaissance town. We disembark after a sumptuous deck BBQ and an evening of celebration with fellow shipmates.
Consider visiting Algar do Carvão with its 90m-deep volcanic chimney, and the island’s small vineyards and lava-rock bathing pools in Biscoitos.
NOTE: Shore excursions are not included within the price of this voyage. We recommend you book transport and tours well in advance.
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