Volcanic Azores & the Solar Eclipse

Matosinhos is a delightful city to explore, where a summer stroll along the promenade offers a laidback atmosphere and a lovely beach located just outside the town. Venture further afield to Porto, and you’ll be offered opportunities to explore the narrow, cobbled streets and colourful houses of Ribeira, or perhaps take a boat trip along the Douro River to witness scenic landscapes of terraced vineyards and traditional wine estates known as quintas. Meanwhile, the city is well known for its production of Port wine, which can be sampled at one of the many wine cellars, or for enjoying Porto’s signature dish, Francesinha, a mouth-watering hearty sandwich of meat covered with melted cheese and a hot, thick sauce in an authentic Portuguese restaurant.

Visiting Lisbon in the warm summer months allows for opportunities to explore further outside the city centre, including marvelling at views across the city from the many miradouros (viewpoints) or visiting the nearby fairytale-like town of Sintra, set against the backdrop of rolling hills. You will also be ideally placed for wandering along the labyrinth of cobblestoned streets of Alfama, Lisbon’s oldest district, which offers a captivating journey through the city, from the grandeur of São Jorge Castle to the stirring rhythms of Fado music. There will also be chances to try local dishes like grilled sardines or the deliciously crumbly Pastéis de Nata custard tart with a Portuguese espresso, known as Bica, ride through the city on a vintage tram, and participate in birdwatching in the Tagus Estuary.

On Monday 2nd August 2027, you’ll have the rare chance to witness a total solar eclipse from the perfect vantage point of the open decks of your smaller Fred. Olsen ship. This remarkable phenomenon will be visible at sea between Lisbon and Madeira, with the Captain positioning the ship where maximum duration of eclipse totality can be seen. To enrich your experience, astronomers from Go Stargazing will be on board to share their expertise and provide fascinating live commentary. Watching the eclipse unfold from the comfort of your ship promises an unforgettable spectacle, with uninterrupted views of this extraordinary natural event.

The glorious island of Madeira is known as the ‘Garden Island’ due to its array of subtropical flowers and plants that seem to burst from every direction. From Funchal, you’ll be able to witness the floral beauty of the island at the exquisite garden in Monte, featuring themed gardens and tropical plants, while its levada walking trails offer unique views of enchanting forests and flowing streams. During August, you will have the opportunity to sample traditional foods and the renowned fortified Madeiran wine or visit one of Europe’s tallest cliffs, Cabo Girão, standing 580m above sea level, with a suspended glass platform viewpoint.

During your visit to the island of Ponta Delgada, home to beautiful mountains, flourishing hydrangeas, sandy beaches, and the famous twin crater lakes of the extinct Sete Cidades Volcano, you’ll also have the chance to explore the historic centre of Portas da Cidade, and enjoy the islands parks and viewpoints. Relax in the natural hot springs of Caldeira Velha, surrounded by lush greenery and cascading waterfalls, or sample freshly caught seafood and traditional Azorean dishes whilst admiring the local scenery. Join us on the decks of your ship to spot whales and listen for their distinctive blow as they glide through the island’s surrounding waters.

The Azores archipelago is a melting pot of Portuguese influences, and the capital of Terceira, Praia da Vitoria, offers a captivating blend of lush hills and volcanic vistas once the mist clears. After visiting the Facho viewpoint for panoramic views over the city and its bay, you could delve into the historic fortifications and cobbled streets of the nearby UNESCO World Heritage Site of Angro do Heroismo before strolling along the peaceful marina and sampling freshly caught seafood and local dishes like Azorean beef cooked in a claypot. Meanwhile, nearby Algar do Carvão, an ancient lava tube featuring striking geological formations, begs for exploration.