The Best of the Canary and Azores Islands: A Cruise Through Volcanic Beauty and Atlantic Charm

For travellers seeking year-round sunshine, dramatic landscapes and a blend of adventure and relaxation, a Canary Islands and Azores cruise delivers the perfect escape. These two Atlantic archipelagos – one Spanish, one Portuguese – offer volcanic wonders, lush subtropical forests, black-sand beaches and vibrant culture, all wrapped in a warm, breezy island lifestyle.

Whether you’re craving spectacular scenery, outdoor adventure or laidback seaside towns, here’s your guide to the best Canary and Azores cruise destinations.

Tenerife – The island of eternal spring

Best for: Beaches, volcanoes and lively towns.

As the largest of the Canary Islands, Tenerife boasts striking contrasts: black sand beaches, lush forests and the towering Mount Teide – the highest peak in Spain. Its capital, Santa Cruz, is a vibrant port filled with markets, palm-lined plazas and waterfront cafés.

Cruise highlight: A scenic journey through Teide National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site of lunar-like volcanic landscapes.

Aerial view of a coastal city with a large pool adjacent to the ocean. Tall buildings are nestled at the base of a mountain under a clear blue sky.

Gran Canaria – A mini continent of landscapes

Best for: Hiking, shopping and golden dunes.

Gran Canaria is famous for its dazzling sunny beaches in the south, rugged mountains inland and the desert-like sand dunes of Maspalomas. Explore colonial old towns, colourful markets and dramatic viewpoints across the island.

Why cruisers love it: There’s something for every style of traveller, from beach loungers to trekkers.

Vibrant beach scene with rows of yellow sun loungers under blue and yellow umbrellas, set against a turquoise sea and clear blue sky.

Lanzarote – A volcanic island with artistic flair 

Best for: Volcanic parks, wine and architecture.

Lanzarote captivates with its surreal volcanic landscapes, shaped by centuries of eruptions. Visit the steamy geysers and lava fields of Timanfaya National Park or enjoy the island’s distinctive architecture inspired by artist César Manrique. 

Try this: A glass of local Malvasia wine from vineyards grown in volcanic ash.

A vibrant landscape features a serene blue lagoon bordered by volcanic rocks and bright green vegetation, with a striking red-orange mountain under a vivid blue sky.

Madeira – Portugal’s floating garden

Best for: Gardens, Levada walks and cuisine.

Though not technically part of the Azores, Madeira often features on Atlantic cruise itineraries. The island blooms with colourful botanical gardens, terraced hillsides and peaceful walking trails. In Funchal, explore markets, wine lodges and panoramic viewpoints.

Cruise tip: Don’t leave without tasting Madeira wine or the island’s famous bolo do caco bread.

Colorful coast with vibrant houses and red-tiled roofs overlooking a turquoise sea. Foreground features blooming pink flowers. Bright, scenic, and lively.

São Miguel, Azores – The Green Island

Best for: Crater lakes, geothermal spas and nature

The Azores feel worlds away from the typical sun-holiday circuit. Known for its emerald landscapes, São Miguel is home to bubbling geothermal pools, crater lakes and lush volcanic valleys. Sete Cidades, a vast twin-lake caldera, is one of the most dramatic sights in the Atlantic.

Must-do: Unwind in the warm thermal waters of Furnas.

A person in a red jacket walks down a dirt path lined with wooden posts, overlooking a lush green landscape and a serene blue lake under a clear sky.

Terceira, Azores – Colourful, charming and filled with history

Best for: Culture, UNESCO heritage and food

Historic Angra do Heroísmo, a UNESCO-listed town, sets the tone for this charming island. Explore its pastel buildings, cobbled streets and peaceful gardens, then venture into Algar do Carvão, a spectacular ancient lava tube.

Why cruisers love it: A perfect blend of culture and natural beauty.

Coastal town with red-roofed buildings nestled by a blue ocean. Lush green island in the background under a clear blue sky.

Ponta Delgada – Gateway to Azorean adventures

Best for: Whale watching, markets and sailing

The capital of São Miguel, Ponta Delgada is a lively harbour city lined with cafés, basalt churches and seaside promenades. It’s also one of the world’s best whale-watching hubs, with sightings year-round.

Cruise highlight: Spotting dolphins and sperm whales just off the coast.

A scenic plaza at sunset with ornate arches and a clock tower. The patterned cobblestones and glow from colorful lights create a calm, picturesque ambiance.

Why cruise the Canary Islands and Azores?

A Canary and Azores cruise is ideal for travellers who want:

  • Year-round warm weather.
  • Remarkable volcanic scenery.
  • Unique Atlantic wildlife (including whales and dolphins).
  • Culturally rich ports with relaxed island charm.
  • Excellent hiking and outdoor adventures.
  • A mix of Spanish and Portuguese heritage.

Whether you prefer sunshine-filled days or breathtaking natural landscapes, these islands deliver unforgettable experiences.

When is the best time to cruise the Canary and Azores Islands?

Cruises to the Canaries offer year-round sailing, thanks to their consistently mild climate. The Azores are best experienced between April and October, when the seas are calmer, flowers are in bloom and whale-watching is at its peak.

Book your Canary and Azores cruise with the Cruise Experts

Ready to explore two of the Atlantic’s most captivating island chains? Our Cruise Experts are here to help you choose the perfect itinerary, ship and sailing date – whether you’re dreaming of volcanic adventures or sun-soaked relaxation.

Your Atlantic island escape begins here.

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