Full Day: Sailing tour with lunch & snorkeling included.

Full Day: Sailing tour with lunch & snorkeling included

Imagine gliding across the calm, turquoise waters of São Miguel’s southern coast, with the wind filling your sails and spectacular views unfolding around you. This all-inclusive full-day sailing experience costs $165 per person, lasts about 8 hours, and is tailored for those who crave a mix of adventure, comfort, and authentic scenery. Led by Vila Watersports Center, this trip takes you from the bustling marina of Ponta Delgada to the famed Vila Franca Islet, with plenty of water activities and a delicious local lunch.

What we love most about this tour is how it blends relaxation with active exploration. First, sailing along the coast offers a peaceful way to soak up the scenery — the rugged coastline, lush hills, and shimmering ocean make for stunning photo opportunities. Then, the chance to snorkel in clear waters and explore the Islet of Vila Franca do Campo provides an engaging, hands-on experience.

A second highlight is the all-inclusive nature of the day. You’re not just paying for a boat ride — lunch, water gear, and the ferry to the islet are all taken care of, making it a convenient and straightforward option. The only potential drawback? If you’re not a fan of boat rides or water activities, some of the highlights might feel a bit short-lived.

This tour suits travelers looking for a balanced mix of relaxation and activity, especially those eager to see iconic sights from the water while enjoying local cuisine and guided insights. It’s perfect for adventurous couples, groups, or solo travelers who want a comprehensive taste of São Miguel’s coast.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Scenic sailing: Glide along the southern coast with breathtaking views of land and sea.
• Island exploration: Discover the famous Vila Franca Islet, known for its scenic beauty and water activities.
• All-inclusive day: Includes lunch, water gear, ferry tickets, and guided tours, streamlining your experience.
• Active and relaxing: Combines peaceful sailing, snorkeling, and sightseeing for a well-rounded day.
• Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind.
• Private groups: Tailored for smaller, more intimate experiences with guides speaking English, Spanish, or Portuguese.

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point: Marina Ponta Delgada

Your day begins at the busy Marina of Ponta Delgada, a hub for maritime activity and a great place to watch boats come and go. Here, the crew boards you onto the vessel, where a friendly guide (likely speaking English, Spanish, or Portuguese) will orient you on what to expect. The boat itself is comfortable, designed for both relaxation and active water pursuits, with plenty of space to enjoy the ocean breeze.

The Sailing Journey

Once underway, you’re treated to about 3 hours of sailing along the southern coast. The boat’s smooth ride is perfect for those who want to unwind while soaking up the sights. During this time, the captain might stop for photos or quick water breaks if conditions allow. The views of rugged cliffs, green hills dipping to the sea, and distant coastlines are especially memorable — perfect for snapping pictures or just watching the horizon.

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Vila Franca do Campo and Lunch

Your boat arrives at Vila Franca do Campo, a charming seaside town. Here, you’ll step ashore for about 2 hours, including a delicious, included lunch at the Mercado da Vila restaurant. The food is a highlight — local flavors served in a relaxed setting, perfect for fueling up before the next adventure.

After lunch, you’ll be guided to the nearby store where you’re given your entry tickets to the Vila Franca Islet. This small island is a true gem, known for its scenic beauty and clear waters. The boat’s included ferry will take you to the islet, which is accessible only with this organized transfer.

Water Activities on the Islet

Once on the islet, you’ll have about 3 hours to explore. The main focus here is snorkeling, with gear provided if you want to swim among the vibrant marine life. The waters around the islet are calm and transparent, making it an ideal spot for both beginner and experienced snorkelers. Scenic views from the top of the islet reward those who prefer to stay dry — think panoramic vistas of the Atlantic and the coastline.

Return Journey

After a fulfilling day, you’ll hop back on the boat for the return trip to Vila Franca do Campo, where transport is provided back to Ponta Delgada. Throughout the day, guides keep conversation interesting and ensure everyone is comfortable, speaking multiple languages to accommodate guests.

What Makes This Tour Special

The strength of this experience lies in how seamlessly it combines several highlights: a scenic sailing route, a visit to one of São Miguel’s most iconic islets, and the chance to enjoy local cuisine. The boat provides a relaxing vantage point to appreciate the stunning coastline, while the water activities offer a tactile connection with the ocean.

Guests frequently mention the stunning views as a standout feature. One reviewer describes the scenery as “breathtaking,” especially during the ferry ride and snorkeling. The inclusion of snorkeling gear and the ferry ticket to the islet makes the experience accessible, eliminating the usual hassle of organizing separate transfers or gear rental.

Practical Considerations

While the tour is largely praised, some mention that the timing of water activities can feel a bit rushed, especially if weather conditions delay stops or if you want more time in the water. Also, since the tour involves boat transfers and water-based activities, it’s best suited for those comfortable with being on the water. If you’re prone to seasickness, bringing medication might be wise.

The cost of $165 is quite reasonable considering the inclusions — guided tour, lunch, snorkeling gear, ferry tickets, and transportation. For travelers seeking a comprehensive, all-in-one experience, it offers significant value, particularly compared to booking separate activities.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers eager to see a mix of land and sea. It suits those who appreciate scenic views and want a hassle-free day with everything included. Perfect for couples, small groups, or solo explorers looking to get their feet wet and enjoy local flavors. However, it’s less suitable for those over 95 years old or anyone uncomfortable with boats or water activities.

The Sum Up

For anyone visiting São Miguel, this full-day sailing and island tour offers a practical way to see some of the island’s most iconic natural sights without fuss. The combination of stunning coastal views, active water pursuits, and delicious local cuisine makes it a well-rounded choice. The trip’s flexibility — with options to cancel and the convenience of all-inclusive planning — means you can relax and enjoy without worries.

If you’re after a lively but relaxed day on the water, this tour hits the mark. It balances adventure and leisure beautifully, providing genuine encounters with the Azores’ striking scenery. It’s especially good for travelers who want to maximize their time exploring without the hassle of organizing multiple activities.

FAQ

Is transportation included to and from the marina?
Yes, the tour starts and ends at Marina Ponta Delgada, with transportation back from Vila Franca do Campo included.

How long is the sailing portion?
The sailing segment lasts approximately 3 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the ocean views.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers the boat ride, snorkeling gear (if desired), ferry tickets to the islet, lunch at Mercado da Vila restaurant, and transportation back to Ponta Delgada.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included if you want to swim after exploring the islet.

How much time do I get at the Islet of Vila Franca?
You’ll have about 3 hours on the islet, including time for snorkeling, sightseeing, and ferry rides.

Is this suitable for non-swimmers?
While snorkeling gear is provided, comfort in water is helpful. The scenic views from the top of the islet are accessible to all.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, Spanish, and Portuguese.

Is this tour private?
Yes, it is organized as a private group, ideal for smaller, more intimate experiences.

Who is this tour not suitable for?
It’s not recommended for people over 95 years old or anyone with mobility issues that prevent boat or water activities.

Whether you’re seeking a scenic day out, some active water fun, or a taste of local life, this sailing tour combines it all in an authentic Azores experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: