Two standout excursions await cruise passengers in Ponta Delgada, the main gateway to Portugal’s Azores islands. The first is the excellent Furnas Valley tour, where you’ll experience the raw volcanic landscape, wander through lush gardens, and soak in the area’s famous thermal springs. Small-group tours to Sete Cidades offer the trip’s biggest wow – twin crater lakes (one blue, one green) plus stops at a working pineapple plantation and a charming village church.
Both tours showcase what makes the Azores special: pristine nature, volcanic wonders, and local culture. I especially love the Furnas tour for its mix of natural and cultural experiences (4.7/5 stars), while the Sete Cidades excursion (4.4/5 stars) delivers the most dramatic photo opportunities.
Let’s explore these top-rated shore excursions in detail:
Key Points
- Furnas and Sete Cidades are the top-rated shore excursions, offering exploration of Ponta Delgada’s natural wonders like volcanic landscapes and crater lakes.
- Furnas excursion features botanical gardens and thermal springs, while Sete Cidades showcases the iconic Blue and Green Twin Crater Lakes.
- Both tours provide air-conditioned transportation, knowledgeable guides, and personalized experiences through small group sizes.
- Guests praise the stunning scenery and informative nature of the excursions, though some report issues with vehicle comfort and weather-related cancellations.
- The shore excursions offer convenient port pickup and drop-off, well-organized itineraries, and flexible scheduling, though accessibility challenges are noted for travelers with mobility issues.
Azores: Shore Excursion Furnas – Crater Volcano and Hot Springs
For those looking to explore the natural wonders of Ponta Delgada, the Azores: Shore Excursion Furnas – Crater Volcano and Hot Springs tour is a must-do. This personalized small-group excursion takes you to the ancient volcanic zone of Furnas, offering a glimpse into the island’s geothermal features.
With a convenient port pickup and drop-off, you’ll enjoy the expertise of a knowledgeable local guide as you visit botanical gardens and thermal springs.
The tour has earned an impressive 4.7/5 rating from over 35 reviews, thanks to its well-organized itinerary and inclusions, such as air-conditioned transportation and entrance fees.
While some guests have experienced larger groups than expected, the majority praise the stunning scenery and knowledgeable guides. However, a few note issues with timing and organization, particularly regarding restroom breaks and rushed visits.
Wheelchair users may find the tour challenging, but infant seats are available. Cancellation and rescheduling policies are flexible, making it an attractive option for those seeking a comprehensive Ponta Delgada shore excursion.
Read our full review: Azores: Shore Excursion Furnas – Crater Volcano and Hot Springs Review
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Azores: Shore Excursion Sete Cidades – Blue & Green Twin Crater Lakes
Situated on the island of São Miguel, the Azores: Shore Excursion Sete Cidades – Blue & Green Twin Crater Lakes offers travelers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the natural wonder of these iconic volcanic lakes. Rated 4.4 out of 5 based on 28 reviews, this tour provides a comprehensive look at the stunning scenery, with a maximum group size of 8 travelers for a personalized experience.
The tour includes a knowledgeable driver/guide, local guide, and port pickup and drop-off, ensuring a seamless experience. Highlights include visits to a pineapple plantation and a historic village church, along with the awe-inspiring views of the Blue and Green Twin Crater Lakes.
While some travelers have noted concerns about vehicle comfort, the majority praise the guides’ expertise and the tour’s ability to provide valuable insights into the island’s history, geology, and environment.
Despite occasional issues with communication and cancellations due to weather, this shore excursion is widely recommended for its scenic beauty and informative nature.
Read our full review: Azores: Shore Excursion Sete Cidades – Blue & Green Twin Crater Lakes Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Book Shore Excursions in Advance?
To book shore excursions in advance, travelers can check their cruise line’s website or contact the shore excursions desk. Many cruise lines offer pre-booking options to guarantee availability and secure discounted rates for popular tours.
What Is the Availability of Wheelchair-Accessible Tours?
Many tour operators offer wheelchair-accessible shore excursions, but availability may be limited. It’s best to inquire about accessibility options when booking your tour in advance to ensure a seamless experience.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Activities?
Many shore excursions don’t have age restrictions, though some activities may have minimum age requirements for safety reasons. It’s best to check with the tour operator ahead of time to ensure the activities are suitable for all ages in your group.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tours?
You can typically bring your own food and drinks on shore excursions, though some tours may have restrictions. It’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand to understand their policies on outside food and beverages.
What Are the Cancellation Policies for Shore Excursions?
Cancellation policies for shore excursions typically allow passengers to cancel up to 24-48 hours before the tour with a full refund. Later cancellations may incur penalties or forfeit the tour fee entirely. It’s best to review the policy when booking.
The Sum Up
The Azores offer a range of captivating shore excursions that allow visitors to explore the island’s volcanic landscapes and natural wonders. From the steaming hot springs of Furnas to the breathtaking Sete Cidades crater lakes, these excursions provide an opportunity to take in the Azorean environment and uncover the islands’ unique geological features. Travelers won’t want to miss these must-see attractions during their time in Ponta Delgada.