Ponta Delgada

25 June 2025

Ponta Delgada

Especially after spending weeks at sea, with only the occasional bird or distant ship in sight. The bustle of the harbour in Ponta Delgada and the many people on the quay can feel a bit unfamiliar at first.

As soon as we were moored alongside, our agent came on board to collect the ship’s documents and passports. Immigration and customs clearance were smooth and efficient. We’re back in the European Union, and after lunch we were free to explore the island of São Miguel.
There’s nothing quite like the feeling of solid ground beneath your feet after three and a half weeks at sea. That first walk ashore, stretching your legs, is truly incomparable. Ponta Delgada is a charming seaside town – not large, but certainly worth a visit.

Since we stayed on São Miguel for more than just an afternoon, we spent the following two days exploring the rest of the island. With a few rental cars, we could easily reach the beautiful inland lakes, hot springs, and tea and fruit plantations.
On our final evening, we all went out for dinner at a waterfront restaurant directly opposite the quay where the Oosterschelde was moored. It was a special sight to enjoy our meal with a view of our own ship.

After our visit to São Miguel, we set sail for Terceira – the island where Charles Darwin once came ashore. More on that soon!