Cruising the Azores Aboard National Geographic-Lindblad

Terceria, the Azores

The Azores are made up of nine major islands, with San Miguel the largest. We started there and sailed to four islands over five days: Pico, Faial, Sao Jore, and Terceira. Weather diverted us from our last stop at Santa Maria, and we ended up with extra nights anchored back at Ponta Delgado in San Miguel.

Each port featured rolling farms, craters and lakes, and sweet villages. Several excursions were offered daily: usually a scenic bus ride to a winery or local tastings, city or photo walks, and a couple of hike options from moderate to strenuous (not really). You sign up the day you embark, but you can change along the way.

Built in 2003 and renovated in 2019, the Orion is a charming, intimate ship with 53 comfortable, well-designed cabins with fabulous storage. Guests on our voyage were predominantly older Americans. A large majority had previously sailed with National Geographic/Lindblad—we met one couple who was on board the Orion for their 6th time!

National Geo and Lindblad have a longstanding partnership that has been extended into 2040, combining Lindblad’s expedition strength with Nat Geo’s travel expertise, brand power, and partnership with The Walt Disney Company. Lindblad runs the ship and staff, while Nat Geo typically has a photography expert and naturalist aboard.

San Jorge, the Azores

The crew was terrific (waitstaff who saw us for the first time somehow knew our names already!) while the expedition team all had specialties and projects they shared during each evening’s debrief and presentations. I especially loved the fascinating underwater glimpses shared by the two (married) divers!

Days were full but not packed. There was time to visit the open bridge, read in the observation lounge, work out in the small fitness center, or stroll through some port towns.

Meals were hearty and varied, with buffet breakfasts and delicious lunches (my favorite) followed by a-la-carte dinners you pre-order (to avoid waste). The cozy dining room was always bubbling with energy, with six guests at most tables, and wine flowing freely. (Everything is included except for top-shelf alcohol.)

For many travelers, this cruise would be a great introduction to expedition sailing with a variety of daily activities. Although we did not get to use the shiny kayaks on board, we did go out once on the Zodiacs into a very calm bay.

A top highlight of this cruise in the middle of the Atlantic is the wildlife. The Azores lie in the path of whale migrations and is one of the best areas to spot humpbacks, sperm, fin, and blue whales from March to June. In May, we had two included whale excursions, one on a speedboat in Faial and one on a large ship in Ponta Delgada: both provided terrific sightings, including a rare interplay sperm whale interacting with a pod of dolphins!

A Zodiac outing in the shadow of Mt. Pico

National Geographic/Lindblad's Orion

We saw a mom and calf sperm whale!

The staff of the Orion was terrific, led by hotel manager Rebecca.

What is expedition cruising?

An active travel experience focused on exploration, nature, and wildlife, and led by topic experts. While there is an itinerary, expedition guests have to be prepared to “pivot” from the daily program due to weather and other conditions.

Who is this cruise best suited for?

Wildlife lovers, photo enthusiasts, and travelers who want to go off-the-beaten path and get a taste of expedition cruising.

How much of the cruise is devoted to photography?

Nat Geo hosts photo experts who offer tips and seminars for both experts and amateurs. They’ll guide some photo walks, and even loan you fancy camera lenses! All guests will be invited to share five of their favorite shots to the cruise slide show (including many taken beautifully with phone cameras).

How do you get there?

There are direct flights to San Miguel from Boston, or via Lisbon.

And, by the way, when you come here, make a point of continuing onto Madeira. See my trip report here.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our cruises page.