The sunshine islands of the Canaries and the Azores in the North Atlantic have much to offer on a cruise holiday.
Apart from the lure of year-round sun, the Canary Islands promise cruise-goers impressive beaches, dramatic landscapes shaped by volcanoes as well as sand dunes, gardens and world-class nature reserves. The inquisitive visitor is also rewarded with the intriguing stories revealed in the architecture and culture of these fascinating islands.
The ‘garden isle’ of Madeira blossoms with colourful flowers: in the parks, botanical gardens and the vineyards that produce the wine that bears its name.
The Spanish archipelago of the Canaries, or the Canary Islands, situated off the north-western coast of Africa, include Gran Canaria, Tenerife, La Palma, Lanzarote and Fuerteventura. The landscape of Gran Canaria is so diverse that it has been likened to a continent in miniature.
The island boasts the stunning desert scenery of Maspalomas, amazing rock formations set amidst volcanic landscapes, and the flourishing greenery of Palmitos Nature Park as well as great beaches. The tranquil old towns of Arucas and Teror are also well worth exploring.
Tenerife too is a delight of diversity: the green valleys, lush plantations and the volcanic ‘moonscape’ of the Mount Tiede National Park all provide rival attractions to its wonderful beaches. La Palma is known for its abundant plant life, pretty villages and the spectacular scenery that leads up to the magnificent volcanic crater, the Caldera de Taburiente.
The colourful beaches of Lanzarote have long been favoured cruise destinations for sun-seekers. The island’s volcanic origin is evident in the fantastical solidified lava landscapes, best viewed from Fire Mountain. The chance to ride camels or explore caves and active geysers adds to the wonder.
Fuerteventura has a landscape formed as much by the climate as its volcanic past. The island’s proximity to the Sahara blesses it with particularly sunny weather, perfect for enjoying some of the best beaches in the Canaries!
The lush and mountainous islands of the Azores, lying nearly a thousand miles from the nearest mainland, provide perfect get-away-from-it-all cruise destinations. The warm maritime climate supports a huge variety of exotic trees and flowers, and on Sao Miguel a huge volcanic crater cradles two picturesque lakes – one emerald green, one deep blue.
Ponta Delgada shows off its Portuguese character in its stylish colonial buildings and sophisticated food and wine, whilst smart private yachts stop off at Horta, en route across the Atlantic, giving it an exclusive and adventurous air.
View our live Canaries cruise webcams to see which ships are in port
Take a virtual tour of the Canaries and the Azores using our Google Earth cruise and see the ports often visited.
If you do not have Google Earth on your computer go to our Google Earth info pages for a step by step guide |
