Ponta Delgada: Shore Excursion – The Blue & Green Lake

Exploring the Blue & Green Lakes in the Azores: A Balanced Look at a Natural Wonder

If you’re docking in Ponta Delgada and craving a taste of the Azores’ legendary volcanic beauty, the Shore Excursion to Sete Cidades offers a perfect half-day escape. This tour is designed for cruise travelers eager to see one of Portugal’s most iconic landscapes—the twin lakes within a massive volcanic crater—without the hassle of planning. From comfortable transportation to expert local guides, it promises a mix of scenic views, cultural insights, and just enough free time to soak it all in.

What I really like about this experience is how it combines spectacular vistas with storytelling. The guides, like Juan or John, aren’t just points on a map—they’re passionate locals who bring the scenery to life, sharing legends and insights you won’t find in a guidebook. Plus, the visit to the pineapple plantation offers a delicious glimpse into Azorean gastronomy, making this a well-rounded, authentic taste of the islands.

A potential downside? The four-hour duration means you won’t get to explore every corner of this vast landscape. If you’re craving a more in-depth adventure or want to explore more remote spots, this tour is a quick highlight reel—though one that’s packed with beauty and stories. Still, for many, the convenience and quality of the experience outweigh its brevity.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Small Group Atmosphere: With only 8 seats in a comfortable van, you’ll enjoy a personal experience with fewer crowds.
• Local Guides: Passionate, knowledgeable storytellers add depth and humor to every stop, making the scenery even more memorable.
• Iconic Views: The “Vista do Rei” lookout provides an unforgettable panorama of the twin lakes, framed by lush hills.
• Cultural & Culinary Insights: Visiting a pineapple plantation offers a taste of Azorean farming traditions and unique produce.
• Well-Planned Itinerary: The tour balances scenic stops with free time, giving you options to explore or relax.
• Convenience & Punctuality: Pickup and drop-off at the cruise terminal ensure hassle-free logistics, with on-time boarding guaranteed.

Entering the Heart of Azores: The Sete Cidades Experience

I find that the true joy of this tour lies in its carefully curated stops that showcase the most breathtaking vistas of São Miguel Island. Starting right from the cruise terminal, the journey begins with a scenic drive through verdant countryside, punctuated by commentary from guides who are genuinely passionate about their home. The small-group setting means you won’t feel rushed or lost in the crowd—perfect for snapping photos or asking questions.

The star of the tour is the “Vista do Rei” lookout, perched atop the crater rim. Here, the view of the Blue and Green Lakes is nothing short of mesmerizing. The lakes are named for their distinctive colors, which change with the weather and the angle of the sun. You’ll see why this site was named one of Portugal’s “7 natural wonders.” The guide will share legends about the formation of the lakes, making the landscape even more captivating.

Next, the tour moves inside the crater for additional vistas, along with a quick stop at the parish center. Here, you’re free to wander or sip a coffee while soaking in the volcanic scenery. For many, the highlight is crossing the bridge between the lakes, an experience that feels like stepping into a postcard. As one review notes, “The highlight was the drive down into the crater to cross the bridge”—a moment that truly captures the magic of this landscape.

The Coastline and the Lava Carvings

After the crater, the journey continues along the dramatic coastline with its towering cliffs and islets, a stark contrast to the lush crater landscape. This part of the tour is especially interesting because it shows how lava has shaped the island’s rugged edges and formed natural harbors and formations. The whale-watching post offers a glimpse into the island’s maritime history, although the actual whale-watching isn’t part of this experience.

Travelers who love geological features will find this stretch fascinating, as it offers a different perspective on the island’s volcanic origins. You might recognize this as a beautiful, yet stark reminder of nature’s power—impressive cliffs and sculpted lava flows that tell a silent story.

Visiting the Pineapple Plantations: A Sweet Ending

The last stop is a visit to a pineapple plantation, which adds a deliciously local touch. The Azorean pineapple is renowned for its sweetness and unique growing methods, and touring the plantation offers insight into the island’s agricultural traditions. As one reviewer shared, “The production of Azorean pineapple is unique in the world,” and you might find that tasting fresh pineapple here changes your perception of this humble fruit.

This visit also underscores how locals have sustainably cultivated and preserved their heritage, making it a worthwhile addition to the landscape-focused stops.

Price, Logistics, and Suitability

At around four hours, this tour is a nice quick escape that fits neatly into a cruise day. The cost includes cruise terminal pickup and drop-off, a small group setting, and a local guide whose stories add depth. While it’s not inexpensive, the value lies in the convenience, authentic storytelling, and stunning scenery you’ll experience—especially if you’re short on time but want to see the best of São Miguel.

It’s important to note the limitations for certain travelers: the tour isn’t suitable for those with large luggage, severe mobility issues, or heart problems. Also, the vehicle seating is limited, so if you’re over 110 kg, it’s worth checking for comfort. Guides emphasize punctuality, so arriving on time ensures you don’t miss out on the highlights.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a traveler who appreciates authentic stories and scenic views, this tour has a lot to offer. It’s perfect for those who want a balanced mix of nature, culture, and local flavor, with the added bonus of traveling comfortably with knowledgeable guides. It’s especially suited for cruise travelers who need a reliable, well-organized excursion that won’t overrun their schedule.

This tour likely appeals most to those who want to see the most famous sights of Sete Cidades without the hassle of planning or driving themselves. If you’re a photography enthusiast, the viewpoints—particularly Vista do Rei—are worth the price alone.

Final Thoughts

This shore excursion provides a solid, authentic taste of the Azores’ natural beauty. The combination of breathtaking landscapes, engaging storytelling, and local insights makes it a memorable experience, especially for first-time visitors eager to see the highlights.

The guides, like Juan or John, are clearly passionate about their home, helping to turn scenic viewpoints into stories you’ll remember long after disembarking. The focus on quality over quantity means you’ll leave with a good sense of what makes São Miguel special, even if your time is limited.

For travelers looking for a well-organized, scenic, and culturally rich half-day tour, this experience hits the mark. Just remember to bring your camera, wear comfortable shoes, and be ready to enjoy the volcanic wonder of Sete Cidades.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately four hours, making it a perfect quick escape during a cruise day.

Where does the tour start and end?
Starting at the cruise port, guides will meet you inside the arrivals terminal. The tour concludes back at the same spot or the cruise terminal for convenience.

Is transportation included?
Yes, you will be picked up and dropped off in an air-conditioned vehicle, with a small group for a more personal experience.

Who leads the tour?
The tour is guided by passionate, local storytellers—like Juan or John—who know the area well and enjoy sharing stories about the landscape.

What are the main highlights?
Expect stunning views from Vista do Rei, visits inside the crater, the picturesque lakes, coastline scenery, and a tour of a pineapple plantation.

Are there free times to explore?
Yes, there’s a stop at the parish center for free exploration or a coffee break, giving you some flexibility.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
It’s best suited for travelers without mobility challenges. The tour isn’t recommended for those with claustrophobia, heart issues, or large luggage.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, and possibly a light jacket for viewpoints. Water is provided, but you can bring your own.

What is the value for the price?
Given the scenic stops, expert storytelling, and included transportation, it offers good value for a half-day adventure.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellation is free up to 24 hours beforehand, giving you flexibility if your schedule shifts.

This tour strikes a fine balance between convenience, scenic beauty, and cultural richness—ideal for those wanting a memorable, authentic slice of the Azores during a cruise stop.