Spending two days here, to make up for the missed Bermuda call and to avoid having to sail around the Isle of White for a day.
There has been some talk about it always raining in the Azores but greeted by a warm and sunny day.
Ponta Delgada is the capital of the nine island group forming the Azores, with a total island population of 140,000, from an Azores total of around 240,000.
Got off at about 9:30 and after some negotiation, found Arthur, who wanted €250, for 5 people in his minibus. Unfortunately, for him, one of his competitors offered to do it for €200 and he had to match the price.
Arthur had lived in Canada for 15 years and spoke perfect English. He was born on the island and was keen to show us all the sights:
Volcanic lakes, villages – including the picturesque, second largest town (Ribiera Grande) – surfing beaches, tea plantation – the only place in Europe where tea is grown – and volcanic geysers.
It was an amazing and a beautiful island. When we finally returned to the ship, at about 5pm, we decided that the initial price of €250 was worth it and paid up.
