Ralph Iantosca

Iantosca Travel

Lindblad Expeditions: Islands of the Azores: Basalt Peaks to Volcanic Vineyards

Apr 16, 2026 to Apr 23, 2026
Portuguese archipelago of the Azores
 
Islands of the Azores: Basalt Peaks to Volcanic Vineyards
Apr 16th – Apr 23th, 2026
 
Towering basalt peaks, bubbling hot springs, emerald-green farmlands, fascinating seafaring history, world-class wine and cheese and captivating fado music—this is just some of the beauty and vitality you’ll discover as we explore the dramatically beautiful Portuguese archipelago of the Azores. 
 
 

 

Featuring 53 cabins, the gracious and intimate National Geographic Orion takes travelers to little-known waters and isles in New Zealand, Australia, French Polynesia, the Pacific Islands, Asia, and the Mediterranean to experience each location's natural and cultural wonders up close. National Geographic Orion's elevated maneuverability allows for navigation of inshore waters, secluded bays, and sinuous rivers–practically anywhere accessible by sea.


Itinerary Highlights

  • Go whale-watching, follow scenic hiking trails, and learn of the volcanic history unique to the Azores 
  • Soak up Azorean culture, sampling local wine and cheese, and dine on a delectable local specialty: a stew cooked underground by volcanic heat 
  • Discover the varied past and the stories of explorers, whalers, and conquerors who all had a part in weaving the tapestry of island history 
  • Experience the commitment the locals have to sustainable growth and protecting the natural beauty and ecosystems of the archipelago

 

Day-by-Day Itinerary

  • Thursday, April 16th, 2026 - São Miguel, Azores, Portugal / Embark
  • Friday, April 17th, 2026- Pico 
  • Saturday, April 18th, 2026 - Faial 
  • Sunday April 19th, 2026 - São Jorge 
  • Monday April 20th, 2026 - Graciosa 
  • Tuesday, April 21st, 2026 - Terceira
  • Wednesday, April 22nd, 2026 - Santa Maria 
  • Thursday, April 23rd, 2026 - São Miguel / Disembark São Miguel 
 
 
 
 
 
Click to explore the ship here . Deck Plans are here.
Rates are Per Person based on Double Occupancy.

Cabins Our Pricing Per Person Regular Pricing Per Person
Your Savings Per Person
Deposit (15%)
Double Occupancy Rate -
Per Person
     
 
Category 1
$8,025.30   $8,917.00   $891.70   $1,203.80 
Category 2 $8,753.40   $9,726.00   $972.60   $1,313.01 
Category 3 $10,796.40   $11,996.00   $1,199.60   $1,619.46 
Category 4 $11,982.60   $13,314.00   $1,331.40   $1,797.39 
Category 5 $13,267.80   $14,742.00   $1,474.20   $1,990.17 
Category 6 $15,208.20   $16,898.00   $1,689.80   $2,281.23 
 
  • Custom Itineraries and suggestions are available to see more of the Azores prior to flying to Sao Miguel, ask for details.
  • $250 planning fee to book and manage your details
  • $500 discount extended to all guests under the age of 18
  • Advance Payment: 15% of the cabin fare (per person)
 
 

  What's included in this trip:

✓ Accommodations aboard ship

✓ Excursions and airport transfers, as indicated in the itinerary

✓ All meals as indicated in the itinerary

✓ Snacks and non-alcoholic beverages, including 24-hour coffee, tea, and soda on demand

✓ Beer, wine, cocktails and spirits. Super premium wines and liquors are available for purchase

✓ Exploration tools such as Zodiacs, stand-up paddleboards, and kayaks

✓ The guidance and company of our leading expedition team

✓ Lectures and presentations

✓ Special access permits, park fees, and port taxes

✓ The services of a medical professional

✓ Transfers to and from designated flights

✓ Fitness equipment

✓ Morning stretch classes

✓ Fully stocked library

✓ Complimentary reusable water bottle

✓ Assistance from the onboard certified photo instructor

✓ Access to the OM System Photo Gear Locker with the latest gear to try out on loan

 

What's not included:

  1. Airfare 

  2. Pre- and post-expedition extensions

  3. Additional hotel nights

  4. Travel protection plan

  5. Crew gratuities

  6. REAL ID, passport, visa, and immigration fees (if necessary)

  7. Meals not indicated

  8. Items of a personal nature, such as laundry, spa treatments, enhanced or premium Wi-Fi upgrades and phone services

    Unused services or items included in Lindblad Expedition programs are nonrefundable.

 
 

Important Information

We want to speak with you prior to booking to be sure you have made the best selection for you and explored all options for before / during / after this trip.* 

*The above refers to elements such as flights, transfers, travel insurance, passport and visa requirements, and custom planning (additional fee). By enrolling on this page, you are giving us authorization to pay this travel supplier, submit correct & legal information, this is not a live booking engine.

Advance and Final Payments

To reserve your place, an advance payment for the program is required at the time of reservation. Payment is accepted by Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover. Receipt of your initial payment indicates your acceptance of our complete Terms and Conditions.  

Once your reservation is confirmed, we urge you to use your personalized online account for important information to help you prepare for your voyage. Managing your documents online will facilitate fast and accurate communication and allow you to provide us with pertinent details required to complete your reservation. Your online account gives you access to your Expedition Guide, which includes valuable information specific to your voyage. You can also use your online account to make easy payments, view recommended flights and reading material, packing list, and so much more. 

Advance payment amount will be 15% of the cabin fare. Final payment will be due 120 days prior to departure. For groups of 8 or more a 50% advance payment is due 180 days prior to departure. 


Cancellation policy:

Iantosca Cancel Policy 
Fees in addition to Supplier fees
  • $250 per person cancellation fee once deposit has been paid until Before 17 December 2024
  • $500 per person cancellation fee 18 December 2024- 16 January 2025
  • 15% per person cancellation fee after 17 January 2025
 
Lindblad Expeditions Cancellation Policy: 
Number of Days Prior to Expedition Start
Per Person Cancellation Fee
120 or more days
Before 17 December 2024
No penalty: Advanced Payment will be credited toward your next expedition*
119-90 days
18 December 2024- 16 January 2025
50% of trip cost**
89-0 days
100% of trip cost

*Advance payments will be credited in the form of a Lindblad Expeditions Travel Certificate, valid for 12 months from the date of cancellation, and which may only be applied towards final payment on any future booking.

**Trip cost is total price paid including extensions, charter airfare, and other additional services.

Travel Insurance

Please be advised, all passengers must have emergency medical and evacuation coverage to travel to The Azores.

We recommend the purchase of Travel Insurance. 
Travelers Age                          Cost
0-17 yr                                    3.2%
18-34 yr                                  4.1%
35-59 yr                                  6.1%
60-69 yr                                  8.5%
70-79 yr                                  10.9%
80+ yr                                     14%
 
 

Available Packages

Category 1 - Main Deck
Unavailable as of September 26, 2024

$8,025.30
Deposit: $1,203.80 per person

 #316, 318-321 — Cabins feature a luminous oval window and configurable beds: two single beds that can be converted to a queen. An armchair, reading lamps, a flat screen TV, two bedside tables, coffee table, desk, and climate controls complete the amenities. Marble bathrooms are generously sized and include a spacious shower stall with a glass door.
 
Category: Category 01 interior
 

Important Information

We want to speak with you prior to booking to be sure you have made the best selection for you and explored all options for before / during / after this trip.* 

*The above refers to elements such as flights, transfers, travel insurance, passport and visa requirements, and custom planning (additional fee). By enrolling on this page, you are giving us authorization to pay this travel supplier, submit correct & legal information, this is not a live booking engine.

Category 2 - Main Deck
Unavailable as of September 26, 2024

$8,753.40
Deposit: $1,313.01 per person

#302-312, 314, 315, 317 — Cabins feature a luminous oval window and configurable beds: two single beds that can be converted to a queen. An armchair, reading lamps, a flat screen TV, bedside table, coffee table, desk, and climate controls complete the amenities. Marble bathrooms are generously sized and include a spacious shower stall with a glass door.
 
Category 02
 

Important Information

We want to speak with you prior to booking to be sure you have made the best selection for you and explored all options for before / during / after this trip.* 

*The above refers to elements such as flights, transfers, travel insurance, passport and visa requirements, and custom planning (additional fee). By enrolling on this page, you are giving us authorization to pay this travel supplier, submit correct & legal information, this is not a live booking engine.

Category 3 - Upper Deck
Unavailable as of September 26, 2024

$10,796.40
Deposit: $1,619.46 per person

#401-412, 414-419 — These spacious cabins feature a sitting area with a large window, a sofa—except slightly smaller #401 & #402—an armchair or two, writing/laptop desk, reading lamps, coffee table, flat screen TV, bedside table, and climate controls. Beds are configurable (call for details). Marble bathrooms include a spacious shower stall with a glass door. Ideal Upper Deck location provides easy access to Bar/Lounge and outdoor dining.
 
Category 03
 

Important Information

We want to speak with you prior to booking to be sure you have made the best selection for you and explored all options for before / during / after this trip.* 

*The above refers to elements such as flights, transfers, travel insurance, passport and visa requirements, and custom planning (additional fee). By enrolling on this page, you are giving us authorization to pay this travel supplier, submit correct & legal information, this is not a live booking engine.

Category 4 - Bridge Deck
Unavailable as of September 26, 2024

$11,982.60
Deposit: $1,797.39 per person

#511, 515 — These suites feature separate sleeping and sitting areas, a chair, armchair, coffee table, and a two-cushion sofa facing an expansive window. Ample storage, reading lamps, a flat screen TV, espresso maker, and climate controls complete the amenities. Marble bathrooms are generously sized and include a spacious shower stall with a glass door. Beds are configurable (call for details). Guests receive a welcome amenity, complimentary laundry, special turn down service, and priority access to one spa appointment per departure.
 
Category 04
 

Important Information

We want to speak with you prior to booking to be sure you have made the best selection for you and explored all options for before / during / after this trip.* 

*The above refers to elements such as flights, transfers, travel insurance, passport and visa requirements, and custom planning (additional fee). By enrolling on this page, you are giving us authorization to pay this travel supplier, submit correct & legal information, this is not a live booking engine.

Category 5 - Bridge Deck
Unavailable as of September 26, 2024

$13,267.80
Deposit: $1,990.17 per person

#501, 503-506, 508 — These spacious suites feature open living areas with sliding glass doors opening to a shared French balcony. A separate sitting area with armchairs, sofa, writing/laptop desk, coffee table, well-placed reading lamps, flat screen TV, espresso maker, and climate controls complete the decor. Marble bathrooms are generously sized and include a spacious shower stall with a glass door. Beds are configurable (call for details). Guests receive a welcome amenity, complimentary laundry, special turn down service, and priority access to one spa appointment per departure.
 
Category 05
 

Important Information

We want to speak with you prior to booking to be sure you have made the best selection for you and explored all options for before / during / after this trip.* 

*The above refers to elements such as flights, transfers, travel insurance, passport and visa requirements, and custom planning (additional fee). By enrolling on this page, you are giving us authorization to pay this travel supplier, submit correct & legal information, this is not a live booking engine.

Category 6 - Bridge Deck
Unavailable as of September 26, 2024

$15,208.20
Deposit: $2,281.23 per person

#502, 507, 509*, 510 — These large, elegant suites feature a French balcony, except for #509 which has double windows. There is a living area with a sofa, two armchairs, coffee table, well-placed reading lamps, flat screen TV, espresso maker, and climate controls complete the decor. Marble bathrooms are generously sized and include a spacious shower stall with a glass door, except for #502, which uniquely offers a ‘soaking tub with a view’ in addition to a shower stall and expansive vanity. Guests receive a welcome amenity, complimentary laundry, special turn down service, and priority access to one spa appointment per departure.
 
Category 06
 

Important Information

We want to speak with you prior to booking to be sure you have made the best selection for you and explored all options for before / during / after this trip.* 

*The above refers to elements such as flights, transfers, travel insurance, passport and visa requirements, and custom planning (additional fee). By enrolling on this page, you are giving us authorization to pay this travel supplier, submit correct & legal information, this is not a live booking engine.

Extra Options

Custom Planning - Two (2) Hours
Unavailable as of September 26, 2024

$250.00
Deposit: $2.00

Extend your trip before or after with something customized to your interests.