A Journey Beyond the Horizon
Far out in the North Atlantic, the Azores rise from the ocean like emerald peaks. São Miguel and Santa Maria offer a rare kind of sailing — raw, remote, and deeply connected to nature. Here, volcanic cliffs meet deep-blue water, whales breach on the horizon, and steady northeast trade winds guide your way from June to September.
The Route: Island by Island
Day 1 – Ponta Delgada to Vila Franca do Campo (15 NM)
Leave the marina of Ponta Delgada behind and sail along São Miguel’s lush southern coast. Anchor near the tiny islet of Vila Franca — a volcanic crater now filled with crystal-clear water, perfect for swimming.
Day 2 – Vila Franca to Nordeste (25 NM)
Follow the rugged coastline east. Nordeste feels like the end of the world — steep green cliffs, waterfalls, and quiet harbors where land and ocean meet in silence.
Day 3 – Nordeste to Santa Maria (55 NM)
A longer open-sea passage. The Atlantic swells remind you of its vastness. Dolphins often follow, and if you’re lucky, you’ll spot whales in the distance. Landfall on Santa Maria feels like discovery.
Day 4 – Santa Maria to Vila do Porto (10 NM)
Sail along golden beaches — rare in the Azores — and anchor in Vila do Porto, the oldest settlement of the islands. Wander its narrow streets and enjoy the calm pace of island life.
Day 5 – Vila do Porto to Maia (20 NM)
Head back toward São Miguel. The coastline here is wild and green, with anchorages tucked beneath volcanic cliffs. Maia is small, quiet, and beautifully remote.
Day 6 – Maia to Ribeira Grande (30 NM)
Sail up the northern coast. Ribeira Grande is surrounded by lush hills and geothermal springs — a perfect stop to soak in natural hot pools after a day at sea.
Day 7 – Ribeira Grande to Ponta Delgada (15 NM)
Complete your circle around São Miguel. As you return to Ponta Delgada, the Atlantic feels different — familiar, yet still full of mystery.
Why Sail the Azores
This route is for sailors who love raw nature and open horizons. It’s not just a voyage — it’s an immersion in the living Atlantic. Between green mountains and endless blue, the Azores remind you what it means to truly sail free.
Best Season: June–September
Winds: Steady northeast trade winds
Highlights: Whale watching, hot springs, volcanic coastlines, pure Atlantic adventure
