Worthwhile Journeys
You are going to be spending some time in the ports you embark and disembark from. These aren’t just logistical points; they’re opportunities for further enrichment. Take an extra day to discover what’s beyond the harbour. It’s not merely about filling time; it’s about making the entire journey worthwhile.
Keeping in Touch The exact location of your ship may not be known until closer to your joining time, you will be informed by email once the exact position has been confirmed. Make sure you take a note of the ship’s mobile/cell phone number with you in case you are delayed or there are any other problems on the day.
What to Do in Ponta Delgada, Azores
History Ponta Delgada offers a rich tapestry of history for anyone keen to learn. Must-visit landmarks include the Fort of São Brás and the Gothic Church of São Sebastião. Both give you a palpable sense of the Azorean past.
Culture Local festivals like Santo Cristo dos Milagres are a spectacle of Azorean culture. The arts are well represented, particularly in the Carlos Machado Museum, which covers everything from natural history to fine art.
Sites of Interest to a Sailor As a sailor, you’ll be enchanted by the headlands and bays surrounding Ponta Delgada. The lighthouse of Ponta do Arnel is a particularly stirring sight for any mariner.
Entertainment From traditional Fado music to bustling nightclubs, the nightlife in Ponta Delgada can be as relaxed or energetic as you want it to be.
Eating Out Indulge in local Azorean delicacies like lapas grelhadas (grilled limpets, not sure about that!) or cozido, a meat and vegetable stew cooked underground by volcanic steam.
Nature Beyond the town, the Azores are a haven for nature lovers. Volcanic craters, lush forests, and serene lakes await your exploration.
Unique Features What sets Ponta Delgada apart are the black-and-white mosaics decorating the town’s pavements and walls, a testament to the volcanic rocks that form the island.
Accommodation Well-known hotels include the Azor Hotel and the Grand Hotel Açores Atlântico. For those looking to relax, the Ferraria Spa offers geothermal bathing.
Official Tourist Website Visit Azores
Weather in Ponta Delgada, Azores Winter is mild, averaging around 14°C, whereas summer highs can reach up to 26°C. Spring and autumn are quite temperate, perfect for any outdoor pursuits.
Sea and Beyond: A Responsible Mariner’s Guide Since you’re already investing in a unique sailing adventure, why not extend that spirit to your travel choices? Opt for more sustainable methods of transport where possible like trains, coaches or sharing a car. If you fly, and we realise this may well be the case, you could research some ways to offset the carbon created by the flight.
Special Interests If you have a special interest that you would like to find out about for this port or to tell us about, we would love to hear from you.
How to Get There
UK From the UK, direct flights are sparse. However, connecting flights via Lisbon are convenient. Alternatively, consider flying to a nearby European city and taking a flight from there.
Europe Most European travellers find it easiest to fly into Lisbon and then catch a domestic flight to Ponta Delgada.
North America From North America, you’ll typically have a layover in mainland Portugal, usually Lisbon or Porto, before flying to the Azores.
Australia Aussie travellers should expect at least two layovers, likely in Asian and European hubs, before reaching Ponta Delgada.
