Ponta Delgada: The Blue & Green Lake Shore Excursion

Exploring the Enchanting Sete Cidades on a Cruise Shore Excursion

I recently came across a highly-rated tour that promises to showcase one of São Miguel’s most iconic sights—the Blue and Green Lakes of Sete Cidades—in just a few hours. Offered exclusively for cruise passengers, this 3.5-hour experience by iGoAzores combines scenic viewpoints, a visit to a pineapple plantation, and the chance to snap breathtaking photos of the volcanic caldera. What caught my eye is how the tour is designed to maximize your time, with guaranteed return, and a small group atmosphere that promises personalized attention.

Two aspects stand out immediately: first, the knowledgeable local guides, like the enthusiastic storyteller who is praised for making the landscape come alive with vivid explanations; second, the spectacular views at Vista do Rei, which many reviewers mention as a highlight. It’s clear that this tour is not just about ticking off sights but about truly experiencing the natural beauty and culture of São Miguel.

One potential consideration is the weather — some viewpoints are at altitude and can be colder or rainy—so packing an umbrella or jacket is a good idea. Also, because it’s a quick trip, it’s best suited for those who want a focused, authentic taste of the island rather than a deep, exhaustive tour. This excursion seems like a fantastic way to make the most of your limited port time, especially if stunning scenery and local stories are your kind of thing.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Perfect for cruise travelers with limited time but a desire for a rich, scenic experience.
• Small group size ensures a more intimate, engaging tour with personalized attention.
• Expert local storyteller guides bring the landscapes to life with vivid descriptions and background.
• Includes a pineapple plantation visit, offering insight into local agriculture and a taste of fresh produce.
• Breath-taking viewpoints, especially Vista do Rei, deliver memorable photo opportunities.
• Flexible start times accommodate different cruise schedules, with pick-up from the cruise terminal.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Convenience of Pickup and Timing
The tour begins right inside the cruise terminal, where your guide, carrying a sign with your name, greets you warmly. This simple yet essential detail removes the stress of finding your guide in unfamiliar surroundings, especially after a long voyage. The tour’s flexibility to start at different times based on your disembarkation ensures you can fit it into your schedule without worry.

The Scenic Drive to Sete Cidades
Once you’re on board, the journey begins with a comfortable van ride through São Miguel’s lush countryside. I love the way local guides, like the praised storyteller on this tour, share little snippets of the island’s life, geology, and legends along the way. The drive itself is scenic—rolling hills, patchwork farmland, and glimpses of the Atlantic horizon. It’s a relaxed start that sets the tone for the natural beauty ahead.

The Viewpoint at Vista do Rei
This is where the tour really shines. Standing at Vista do Rei, you’ll see the dramatic contrast of the Blue and Green Lakes beneath you. The lakes are located within a dormant volcanic crater, and the panoramic view makes for incredible photographs and unforgettable memories. Several reviews mention this as “the perfect photo opportunity,” and I can see why—the colors and shapes are mesmerizing. Expect to spend about 20 minutes here, enough time to soak in the views, take photos, and appreciate the scale of this volcanic caldera.

Visit to the Pineapple Plantation
A highlight for many is the visit to a local pineapple plantation, where you can learn about how this iconic Azorean fruit is cultivated. The 20-minute guided tour provides insight into the growing process, and you might even taste some fresh or processed pineapple products. It’s a charming, authentic touch that adds a flavor of local life to the excursion.

Exploring the Surroundings of Sete Cidades
From the plantation, the tour takes you to other scenic spots like Cerrado das Freiras and Pico do Carvão, which offer additional views of the crater and lakes. These stops last around 15-20 minutes each, giving you plenty of time to admire the landscape without feeling rushed. Many visitors, like the reviewer who described the tour as “easy and with superb explanations,” appreciate how these stops allow for leisurely sightseeing and photo-taking.

Free Time in Sete Cidades Village
The 20-minute stop in the village itself offers a chance to walk around, take in the local atmosphere, or grab a quick snack. It’s a brief but valuable window to connect with the place beyond just the viewpoints.

Return Journey and Drop-off
Your guide will ensure you’re back at the cruise terminal on time. This aspect is especially important given the tight schedule most cruise itineraries demand. The tour’s design minimizes risk of missing your ship, which puts many travelers at ease.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

Considering the cost—especially with the flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance and the inclusion of multiple scenic stops, the pineapple plantation, and a small group setting—the value here is strong. You’re paying for a personalized experience that offers stunning visuals, cultural insights, and the convenience of door-to-door service.

The tour’s emphasis on storytelling and expert guiding elevates it from a simple sightseeing trip to a meaningful encounter with São Miguel’s natural beauty. On top of that, the short duration makes it a perfect add-on if your cruise port time is limited, ensuring you return with enough time to explore or relax before your ship departs.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This excursion is ideal for travelers who want a focused, high-quality introduction to Sete Cidades without spending an entire day. If you love breathtaking viewpoints, enjoy learning about local agriculture, and prefer small-group intimacy, you’ll find this tour appealing. It’s also perfect for those who want a stress-free, well-organized trip with a knowledgeable guide making the experience more engaging.

However, if you’re seeking an in-depth exploration of São Miguel or have mobility challenges, this tour’s brief stops and terrain at viewpoints might not be suitable. Still, for most cruise passengers eager to witness the island’s iconic scenery, this tour hits the right notes.

Price and Logistics

At a reasonable price, this tour offers significant value by combining scenic beauty, cultural insights, and convenience. The pick-up and drop-off at your cruise ship eliminate the hassle of navigating unfamiliar transport or directions. Plus, the flexible start times accommodate different disembarkation schedules, which is a real plus.

The tour is suitable for those who want a well-paced, intimate experience without the hassle of planning logistics or dealing with large groups. However, it’s important to remember that some viewpoints are at higher altitude and can be chilly or rainy—packing a jacket and umbrella is a smart move.

Final Thoughts

If you’re visiting São Miguel on a cruise and want a memorable, scenic, and hassle-free way to see the Blue and Green Lakes, this tour by iGoAzores offers a superb option. The combination of expert guides, stunning vistas, and local culture makes it more than just a sightseeing trip—it’s a genuine taste of the island’s natural splendor.

Ideal for those with limited time but big appreciation for breathtaking landscapes, this experience ensures you return to your ship with plenty of time and a camera roll full of spectacular images. Plus, with a small group setting, you’ll get a more personal, relaxed atmosphere—something I always find makes a difference.

In summary, this excursion is a fantastic choice for cruise travelers wanting a highlight of São Miguel, especially if you value authentic stories, stunning views, and convenient logistics.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3.5 hours, with flexible start times based on your cruise schedule.

Where does the tour start?
It begins inside the cruise terminal, where the guide will be waiting with a sign bearing your name.

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation in a comfortable van is included, with pick-up and drop-off at the cruise harbor.

What is included in the tour?
A pineapple plantation visit, a local storyteller guide, scenic viewpoints, bottled water, and a small group atmosphere.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
It’s best suited for those able to handle some walking and at altitude viewpoints. It’s not recommended for people with mobility issues or large luggage.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I bring?
Bring a jacket, umbrella, and comfortable shoes. Weather can change quickly at altitude.

How many people are in the group?
It’s a small group experience, designed to be intimate and engaging.

Is this tour offered in multiple languages?
Yes, the tour is available in English and Portuguese.

Who would enjoy this tour most?
Anyone interested in stunning landscapes, local culture, and a relaxed, guided experience during their cruise stop.