Explore the Azores on Santa Maria Manuela

FULL VOYAGE DESCRIPTION

Many of our vessels offer ‘Island Hopping’ voyages at stunning locations around the world but Island hopping in the Azores has got to be hard to beat!  Weather depending, you’ll spend the nights on quiet anchorages around the central islands and then sail up the São Jorge Channel which offers the chance to spot for whales.  The area is home to many variety of whales; predominantly Sperm whales,  along with blue, fin and sei whales. Bottlenose, Atlantic spotted and common dolphins also usual species here at this time of the year so make sure you bring your camera!

One of the highlights of your journey will be a visit to Pico Island, a serene gem located at the southernmost tip of the archipelago. The people here have every reason to be proud of their stunning island, which happens to be the second largest in the Azores and home to Portugal’s highest peak, Mount Pico, towering at an impressive 2,351 meters. While reaching the summit requires a bit of effort, the panoramic views that greet you on a clear day are absolutely worth it. On such days, you might even catch a glimpse of the nearby islands of Faial, Sao Jorge, and Terceira, with Graciosa in the distance to the north. (Climbing Pico requires a pre-booked guide and a good level of fitness.)

Pico Island’s hot and dry climate, combined with its mineral-rich lava soil and the striking black stone “currais” (plots), create the perfect conditions for vine cultivation. It’s no wonder that the island’s wine has gained international acclaim and is now celebrated far and wide.

The extensive lava fields that dot the island’s landscape were declared a World Heritage by UNESCO in 2004

If the weather allows, you’ll have the chance to explore Horta, a delightful town famous for its beloved Peter’s Café Sport bar, a long-standing favourite among sailors since 1918. Take a leisurely stroll along the marina and be amazed by the timeless artistry displayed by generations of sailors.

Santa Maria Manuela’s island hopping adventure concludes back in Terceira, where you’ll dock in the UNESCO-listed city of Angra do Heroísmo, the oldest city in the Azores. Prepare to be enchanted by the 16th-century fortress and Renaissance town that grace this historic gem. Once you’ve disembarked, we highly recommend paying a visit to Algar do Carvão, a fascinating site boasting a volcanic chimney that plunges a staggering 90 meters deep. And don’t miss the chance to explore the island’s quaint vineyards and take a refreshing dip in the lava-rock bathing pools of Biscoitos, which are popular among tourists.

HANDS ON HOLIDAYS

Whether you are an experienced sailor or a complete beginner, the professional crew will train you to be guest crew from the moment you arrive, with the intention that everybody works together to sail the ship. The common thread to all Classic Sailing holidays is ‘Hands on’ participation on ships that use ropes, blocks and tackles and ‘people power’ to set sail.

SAILING STYLE & LIFE ON BOARD

We cater for a wide range of ages and physical abilities and how much you are expected to do varies a bit between vessels. See the vessel tab above which explains all about the ‘sailing style’ and what to expect in terms of hands on participation. There is a lot of information about day to day life, the ships facilities and accommodation on the vessel pages.

AGILITY & FITNESS

Every customer sailing with us will need to fill in basic medical questions on their booking application. If you are not sure if your current level of fitness and agility are up to a voyage, then please ring the Classic Sailing Office on 01326 53 1234 and we can chat through your concerns and possibly find options that might suit you better.

What to pack for a sailing holiday on the Eye of the Win

Below is a recommended travel packing list for a sailing voyage. See bottom of page for Diving Holiday Kit List

Included

• Sailing Instruction
• Safety Equipment (Life jackets and harnesses)
• All meals to include cooked breakfast, lunch, dinner and refreshments throughout the day.
• Bed linen, duvet, towels for cabin (but please bring your own beach towel)

What is Not Included

• Waterproof jacket and trousers
• Travel to and from the start and end port
• Optional trips or tours taken ashore unless otherwise stated
• Alcoholic Beverages , but you can purchase drinks from the bar (you can set up a tab and pay at the end).

What to Bring

For any destination north of Cape Verde warm and waterproof clothing is very important, as it can get cold during sailing, especially at night, even in the summer. A waterproof and windproof jacket is recommended to help keep warm and dry. Waterproof rubber soled boots or shoes are also recommended to keep your feet dry and warm. It is a good idea to bring two pairs of shoes in case one gets wet as salt water soaked shoes take a while to dry. Madeira, Portugal and the Azores in summer can get pretty hot and it is easy to get sunburn at sea as the air is clear. The Cape Verde are in a tropical climate so a good sun screen is essential. Please remember that space on board is limited and pack accordingly. Pack comfortable and practical clothing for all weather circumstances, the key is layers!! It is recommended to pack in a soft bag that can be easily stored away as there is no room on board for suitcases. Electricity on board is European 2 pin sockets, please be sure to bring any adaptors you may need.

Passports, Visas and Insurance

If you voyage is sailing in foreign waters, you will require a full passport that is valid for at least 6 months after the end of the voyage. You will be responsible for obtaining any necessary visas. We have Third Party Liability Insurance and recommend all those sailing with us to take out relevant travel insurance to cover their voyage.

Medical Conditions and Special Diets

Please inform us in advance of any medical conditions you have and medication which you might need to bring with you. If you have any special dietary requirements it is essential you inform us prior to your voyage. We will make every effort to cater for all diets with prior notice.

Personal Items

This is a list of the items we recommend you bring with you.

• Warm hat and sun hat
• gloves - either sailing gloves or gardening type gloves
• Wet weather clothing – water proof and windproof jacket
• Clothing – enough clothing for all weather circumstances (think layers!!)
• Trainers or deck shoes
• shorts and t shirts
• nightwear (ear plugs ?)
• Toiletries
• Towels
• swimwear (googles are useful)
• Sun cream
• Sunglasses
• Sea sickness medication
• Personal medication
• Book
• Small torch (head torches are good!)
• Camera
• Log book (if you have one)
• Valid passport (voyages outside the UK)
• Travel insurance

Extras

• Musical instruments
• games or cards
• book/kindle

You can buy Santa Maria Manuela caps on board.

Diving Holidays on Santa Maria Manuela - Kit List

Please note the ship will only be carrying scuba diving equipment on the specialist diving voyages. On a diving voyage - Bottles and weights are included in the voyage price. If you need diving equipment other than bottles and weights it is €150 extra Nitrox costs €5 euros a dive Classic Sailing will expand on this kit list shortly.

We had the most amazing time. The crew were so friendly and helpful, the food was great throughout, and the cabins were really comfortable. We both climbed the rigging as the sun was setting over Porto Santo to round off a brilliant last day with the new friends we met. Thanks for the wonderful experience.

Ian & Dayna

I have sailed many times on tall ships, this is by far the best yet.

Richard

 

Terrific crew and ship and a lovely passage to the Azores. Crew and guests were very good and patient with someone who only spoke English. This is a terrifically well run vessel. Excellent accommodation, well serviced by a professional crew. All very friendly, helpful and willing to give information throughout. Many opportunities to get involved in most aspects of the ships operations. Very many thanks.

Keith

An amazing ship and amazing crew.

David

We had a terrific and adventurous time on board during Sachsen Sail in the Bay of Biscay. Thank you to all Santa Maria Manuela crew members!

Mario

Un voilier merveilleux avec un équipage très sympathique. Merci pour tout.

A splendid ship with a very kind crew. Thank you for everything.

Marie-Francoise