Volcanic wonderlands of bubbling hot springs, steaming fumaroles and sub-tropical forests; the wonders of the remote Azores await your exploration. What’s more, you’ll also get to be part of the ‘Fred. Olsen Fleet in Funchal’ event, joining guests and crew from all four Fred. Olsen ships for an unforgettable day of celebration, on which Borealis, Bolette, Braemar and Balmoral will dock alongside each other in Madeira’s capital. On this very special occasion, you’ll get to enjoy fantastic live entertainment and events; get to take part in exciting activities; tuck-in to delicious, specially prepared menus; visit the other ships in the fleet, to explore and meet up with guests and crew you may know from previous cruises; and much more. Away from all the festivities, there are chances to discover Madeira’s many highlights, from its botanical gardens and picturesque walking trails to natural wonders such as Cabo Girao sea cliff, too.
In the Azores, every moment you spend exploring this gorgeous archipelago will be one to remember; visits to three enchanting islands on consecutive days pack in plenty of highlights. On Terceira Island, Praia da Vitoria is perfectly placed for tours to Angra do Herosimo. The UNESCO-listed jewel in Terceira’s crown, this historic city boasts interesting museums and impressive architecture such as the 16th century Sé Cathedral. The 205 metre-high Monte Brasil volcano, which overlooks Angra do Herosimo, offers wonderful sea views from its peak. There are the volcanic treasures of São Miguel Island to uncover too; Ponta Delgada is your gateway to the extinct Sete Cidades Volcano – one of the seven wonders of Portugal – where a 13-kilometre-wide crater and colourful lakes create the Azores’ most astonishing scene. Elsewhere, Terra Nosta Park – a haven of gorgeous gardens, geo-thermal pools and dense woodlands that are home to stunning endemic flora – is within reach, as are the hot springs of Furnas Valley. Finally, on the Portuguese mainland, there’s also opportunities to uncover Lisbon’s rich maritime history, and tour to Oporto, famous for port wine.