Comprised of nine Portuguese Islands, the Azores is home to some of the tallest volcanic mountains on earth.
Known as the Galápagos Islands of Europe, the Azores boast lush green landscapes punctuated with pristine emerald-hued pools that make this paradise seem like another Eden. As one of the whale-watching hotspots of the world, you may catch a glimpse of some of these mind-blowing marine mammals while on board.
Basking in year-round sunshine, a Canary Islands cruise affords a wealth of scenic surprises. Beyond the abundant beautiful beaches, the volcanic islands offer verdant forests, sprawling deserts and dramatic lunar-esque landscapes. One of the most well-known Canary Islands is Tenerife. This volcanic area is home to extraordinary beauty and diversity, with remote mountain-ride villages, cultured port settlements and charming old towns.
Exploring the beautiful island of Madeira is a dream. Known as The Floating Garden in the Atlantic, Madeira is home to a feast of flora and fauna. Offering boundless beauty, this haven of nature is a visual treat to savour.
Things to do in the Atlantic Islands
The Azores are full of breathtaking places that are sure to stop you dead in your tracks. One of those places is Sete Cidades. Sete Cidades is an enormous caldera with sparkling twin lakes. A caldera is a large volcanic crater formed by a major eruption leading to the collapse of a volcano’s mouth. Many superb walking trails crisscross along the caldera.
Lanzarote in the Canary Islands is full of fascinating sights. Nestled within many of the blackened lava fields, across the abstract volcanic landscape, are low-growing vines. This is Lanzarote’s wine country and most wines produced here are dry malvasías, though muscatel and other grapes are also cultivated.
Funchal, the capital of Madeira, is where you’ll find some of the island’s best experiences. This inviting city boasts a bustling marina, a cobbled centre, a museum dedicated to Cristiano Ronaldo and an ascending backdrop of mountains just waiting to be explored.
Atlantic Islands shore excursions
Shore excursions are a fantastic way to explore the Atlantic Islands in more depth. From riding camels over volcanic dunes in Lanzarote’s Timanfaya National Park with P&O Cruises to a traditional wicker toboggan ride in Funchal with Celebrity Cruises, you’re certain to find an excursion that will enhance your Atlantic Islands cruise.
When is the best time to cruise the Atlantic Islands?
The best time to cruise to the Atlantic Islands depends on your preferences. The peak season spans from April to October. This time of year offers warm temperatures which are ideal for exploring lush landscapes and pristine beaches. The shoulder season, which is from April to May and September to October, offers pleasant weather with fewer crowds. Perfect for those seeking a more intimate experience.
Which cruise lines sail to the Atlantic Islands?
Many of our cruise line partners offer Atlantic Islands cruises.
Among the most popular are; Ambassador Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, P&O Cruises and Princess Cruises, all of which offer no-fly cruises. No-fly cruises are a great way to see the world - your holiday begins closer to home and you have no restrictions.
If you’d prefer to set off on a fly-cruise to the Atlantic Islands, cruise lines including Holland America Line, Oceania Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Seabourn and Silversea offer an extensive range of voyages.
