Ponta Delgada Full Day Sailing Tour with Drinks and Snacks

If you’re dreaming of a day spent sailing along the stunning coast of São Miguel in the Azores, this Ponta Delgada Full Day Sailing Tour might just be your ideal getaway. Offering the chance to explore by yacht, it combines scenic cruising, snorkeling, and local Azorean snacks—all in a private setting perfect for small groups.

What’s truly appealing about this experience is the opportunity to sail aboard a modern sailboat with knowledgeable crew members and the chance to take the helm yourself—a rare treat if you love sailing or want to learn. The route along the south coast of São Miguel showcases some of the most beautiful spots, from the Vila Franca Islet to hidden bays perfect for swimming, making it more than just a boat ride.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour is a full 7-hour commitment, which might be quite long for travelers with tight schedules. Also, as it’s a private group experience, the cost per group may seem higher upfront but offers great value considering the personalized service and exclusive access.

This tour is ideal for those who wish to combine a relaxed day on the water with a bit of adventure, scenery, and local flavor. It suits couples, small groups, and families who want to experience São Miguel from the sea, with some added sailing skills and a laid-back atmosphere.

Key Points

• Private, intimate experience: Perfect for small groups up to six, offering personalized attention.
• Active and scenic: Includes opportunities to sail, snorkel, and swim in clear waters.
• All-inclusive: Drinks, snacks, and snorkeling equipment are provided—no need to bring much.
• Flexible itinerary: Stops at key spots like Vila Franca Islet, with recommendations for swimming and relaxing.
• Experienced crew: Guides are friendly, knowledgeable, and fluent in multiple languages, including Portuguese, English, and French.
• Excellent value: Considering the full-day duration, personalized service, and included amenities, the price offers good value for a bespoke adventure.

The Experience: What You Can Expect

Starting from the Portas do Mar marina in Ponta Delgada, the day kicks off at 10 a.m. with a warm welcome aboard the sleek, comfortable sailboat. The boat itself is modern, well-maintained, and equipped with outdoor cushions for lounging in the sun—an ideal setup for enjoying the scenic voyage.

Departure and Initial Cruise

As the boat sets sail along the south coast of São Miguel, you’ll quickly notice the stunning coastline, dotted with dramatic cliffs, lush greenery, and quaint villages. The crew—friendly and multilingual—guides you through some basic sailing concepts, offering you the chance to take the helm if you wish. For those unfamiliar with sailing, this is a great way to get a hands-on introduction, while experienced sailors can enjoy the freedom of steering.

Visiting Vila Franca Islet and Surroundings

The boat cruises past several points of interest, including the São Roque Islet and Praia da Caloura. The highlight for many is the stop at the Vila Franca Islet, a volcanic crater and protected marine reserve that’s often called the “hidden gem” of São Miguel. Here, the boat anchors in a calm bay, giving you plenty of time for a swim or snorkeling.

Snorkeling and Swimming

According to reviews, the snorkeling gear provided is of good quality, with two sets available for guests to explore the underwater world. The clear waters and vibrant marine life make it a memorable experience. Many reviewers noted that the swim stops were carefully chosen spots, with some comments mentioning the water’s cleanliness and the tranquility of the anchoring locations.

Onboard Snacks and Drinks

Throughout the day, a variety of Azorean snacks and drinks are served, including water, juice, soft drinks, beer, tea, or coffee. The snacks are praised for being well-curated, with one reviewer emphasizing that the food exceeded expectations, offering a taste of local flavors amid the stunning scenery. This makes the trip feel like a relaxed picnic at sea, with plenty of opportunities to sip and chat as you admire the views.

Return and Reflection

The tour concludes around 5 p.m., back at the starting point in the Portas do Mar marina. The crew ensures everyone is comfortably disembarked, leaving you with lasting memories of a day spent sailing in the Azores.

The Route in Detail

Starting from Av. Infante Dom Henrique, the boat heads south, passing notable landmarks such as São Roque Islet and Praia da Caloura. The Vila Franca Islet stop is the core highlight—its volcanic crater offers both stunning scenery and calm waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The boat’s flexibility allows the crew to adapt to weather conditions and guest preferences, which reviewers appreciated, especially when the crew made tailored recommendations for great swimming spots.

Why This Tour Stands Out

One of the key advantages of this experience is its personalized nature—it’s a private tour, so your group has the captain’s full attention. The crew, including guides who speak Portuguese, French, and English, are described as helpful, friendly, and knowledgeable, making the experience smooth and enjoyable.

The sailing aspect really enhances the experience—being able to take the helm adds an interactive touch that many travelers value. Even those without sailing experience find this engaging, thanks to the crew’s guidance. The boat’s modern design and outdoor cushions make lounging in the sun a pleasure, while the snorkeling equipment helps you explore the marine environment up-close.

The scenic cruise along the coast, combined with the stops for swimming and snorkeling, offers a balanced mix of relaxation and activity. The inclusion of local snacks and drinks elevates the experience, making it feel like a well-curated, leisurely day at sea rather than a rushed tour.

Considerations and Practical Tips

While the tour is fantastic for those who love gentle adventures and scenic cruising, it may not suit travelers who have mobility issues or prefer land-based activities, as it’s not wheelchair accessible. Also, since the tour is 7 hours long, it’s best suited for visitors with a full day available—this isn’t a quick trip.

Make sure to bring a passport or ID, as required for boarding. Wear comfortable clothing suitable for a day on the water, and don’t forget your sun protection and a hat. Even though snacks and drinks are provided, packing a small personal water bottle is never a bad idea.

Price and Value

At $739 per group up to six people, this experience might seem a bit premium at first glance. However, considering the full-day duration, the exclusivity of a private group, and the all-inclusive amenities—snacks, drinks, snorkeling gear—it offers good value, especially if you’re after a personalized, memorable sailing adventure.

Compared to larger group tours or shorter experiences, this trip provides a more intimate connection with the sea, personalized guidance, and flexible stops—elements that often justify the price.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This sailing experience is ideal for couples, small groups, or families looking for a luxurious yet authentic way to explore São Miguel’s coast. If you enjoy being active, learning about sailing, or simply relaxing on a boat with stunning views and good company, you’ll find plenty to love here.

It’s also perfect for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with a bit of adventure, all while enjoying local snacks and drinks in a private setting. Those seeking a quiet escape from busy tours will appreciate the serene environment and personal touch.

The Sum Up

In the world of Azores tours, this Ponta Delgada Full Day Sailing Tour offers a delightful mix of scenery, activity, and comfort. You’ll get to see some of São Miguel’s most beautiful coastal spots, learn a little about sailing, and enjoy a relaxed day with excellent snacks and drinks. The personalized, private nature of the trip makes it stand out, especially for those wanting a more tailored experience.

While it may be a longer and somewhat pricier option, the value lies in the intimate setting, expert guidance, and memorable highlights—perfect for travelers eager for authentic, hands-on adventures at sea.

If you’re looking for a scenic, laid-back day that combines exploration, a touch of adventure, and local flavors, this sailing tour is a smart choice. It’s especially suitable for those who value small-group experiences, expert guides, and the chance to see São Miguel from a different perspective.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is private and can be adapted, it’s mainly designed for small groups of adults or families with children old enough to enjoy boating and snorkeling. Check with the provider for specific age restrictions.

Do I need sailing experience to join?
No, you don’t need prior sailing experience. The crew is friendly and will guide you through the basics if you want to take the helm. Beginners are welcomed and encouraged.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID card, sunscreen, hat, and comfortable clothing. The boat provides snorkeling equipment and outdoor cushions, but you might want to bring a camera or personal water bottle.

Are drinks and snacks included?
Yes, a variety of drinks (water, juice, soft drinks, beer, tea, coffee) and snacks are included in the tour, serving as a perfect complement to the scenic cruise.

How long is the tour?
The full experience lasts about 7 hours, departing at 10 a.m. and returning around 5 p.m. It’s best suited for travelers with a full day available.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Yes, it can be suitable for families, especially those with older children who enjoy water activities and boat trips, but check with the provider if you have young children or specific needs.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change unexpectedly.

This sailing tour offers an authentic, relaxed way to see São Miguel from the water, combining scenic beauty, active fun, and local flavors. For travelers seeking a personalized adventure in the Azores, it’s a wonderful choice that balances comfort, exploration, and memorable moments.