Yacht Charters in the Azores
Sail Portugal’s Azores: dramatic volcanic isles, emerald bays, whales and world‑class marinas. Bareboat, skippered, catamaran or crewed. Get a free quote today.
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Yacht Charter the Azores Highlights
Horta & Faial Channel
Historic transatlantic stop with excellent marina services and buzzing quayfront. Short, scenic hops across the channel to Pico with iconic views of Mount Pico.
Pico Island
Sail beneath Portugal’s highest peak. Superb whale‑watching grounds, dramatic lava coastline and small harbours offering authentic Azorean hospitality.
São Miguel & Ponta Delgada
The largest island blends vibrant marina life with lush interiors like Sete Cidades and Furnas. A practical base for provisioning and exploring the eastern group.
Angra do Heroísmo, Terceira
UNESCO‑listed town with sheltered marina, colourful streets and 16th‑century fortifications. A refined cultural stop amid blue‑water passages.
São Jorge Fajãs
Steep, green ridgelines drop to sea‑level lava plains (fajãs). Find quiet anchorages, fishing villages and rewarding hikes straight from the dinghy.
Flores & Corvo
Remote western isles of waterfalls and wild cliffs. Best for experienced crews with settled forecasts—spectacular, untamed Atlantic cruising.
the Azores Sailing Itinerary
7-day Azores sailing itinerary from Velas to Horta
Looking for inspiration? Explore our 7‑day Azores island‑hopping itinerary linking Faial, Pico, São Jorge and Terceira with manageable inter‑island passages.
View Day-by-DayThe Azores are a breathtaking Atlantic archipelago of nine volcanic islands, celebrated for emerald crater lakes, deep‑blue ocean, and world‑class whale watching. With steady summer breezes, clear water, and well‑equipped marinas, the Azores deliver a rewarding, adventurous yacht charter far from crowded Mediterranean routes.
From the legendary sailors’ hub of Horta on Faial to the dramatic silhouette of Pico, from São Miguel’s lush landscapes to UNESCO‑listed Angra do Heroísmo on Terceira, inter‑island passages reveal rugged coastlines, lava‑formed bays, and welcoming harbour towns. Conditions are generally moderate in season, though Atlantic swells and weather windows should be respected.
Whether you’re planning a capable bareboat, a relaxed skippered escape, a spacious catamaran for family comfort, or a fully crewed experience, we’ll match you to the right yacht and itinerary—then handle the details so you can focus on sailing.
the Azores Yacht Charter Types
Bareboat
- Complete freedom to explore at your own pace
- Lower cost option for experienced sailors
- Privacy and independence
- Choose your own route and schedule
Skippered
- Local expert knowledge of hazards and best anchorages
- No sailing qualifications required
- Stress-free navigation and mooring
- Learn while you sail!
Catamaran
- Spacious living areas and stability
- Shallow draft for accessing secluded bays
- Perfect for families and larger groups
- Two hulls means more privacy and space for wet-gear and toys
Crewed Luxury
- Chef, captain and concierge experience
- Professional crew handles everything
- Tailored menus, activities and privacy
- Ultimate relaxation and comfort
Yacht Charter the Azores: Guide Prices
| Season | Bareboat | Catamaran | Crewed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Low Season (May-June) | EUR 3,400 | EUR 6,800 | EUR 12,000 |
| Mid Season (July, September) | EUR 3,800 | EUR 7,200 | EUR 13,500 |
| High Season (August) | EUR 4,200 | EUR 8,800 | EUR 15,000 |
| Off Season (October-April) | EUR 3,000 | EUR 6,200 | EUR 11,000 |
Prices shown are weekly rates in EUR and include: yacht charter, standard equipment, bed linen, and final cleaning. Not included: fuel, provisioning, mooring fees, skipper/crew (if applicable), and any local permits for protected areas.
Rates vary by yacht model, season, and duration. Inter‑island passages can increase fuel use—ask us for a tailored quote based on your route and crew size.
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Yacht Charter the Azores FAQs
For bareboat charters in Portugal (including the Azores), you should hold an ICC (International Certificate of Competence) or an equivalent licence such as RYA Day Skipper, plus a VHF/Short Range Certificate. Recent tidal/coastal experience is strongly recommended due to Atlantic conditions. If you do not meet the requirements, choose a skippered charter.
The main season runs May to September, when winds are moderate, days are long, and marinas operate at full service. Sea temperatures reach 20–24°C in late summer. Outside peak months, conditions are more variable and Atlantic swells are more common—plan conservatively and watch forecasts closely.
As a guide, a 38–40ft monohull bareboat starts around €1,800–2,200/week in low season, rising to €4,200/week in August. Catamarans are typically 40–80% more. Skippers cost ~€180–220/day, and fully crewed options from ~€9,000/week. Budget extra for fuel, provisioning, mooring (€25–60/night), and optional gear.
Charters typically include the yacht, standard safety equipment, bed linen, final cleaning, and a dinghy with outboard. Not included: fuel, food and drink, mooring outside the base, skipper/crew (if booked), any protected‑area permits (e.g., nature reserves), and optional extras such as paddleboards. Always check your contract for specifics.
Yes—many itineraries link Faial, Pico, São Jorge and Terceira with short to moderate legs (e.g., Faial–Pico ~4 NM). Longer passages to São Miguel or Flores require favourable weather windows. Build in flexibility and consult local advice. Some sites (e.g., Vila Franca do Campo Islet) are protected and may require permits.
Comprehensive travel insurance that covers sailing is recommended. A refundable damage deposit or damage waiver is standard. The base will brief you on safety, local hazards, and weather. Lifejackets, flares and VHF are standard; AIS and a handheld GPS are sensible adds for inter‑island passages.