20-27 August 2025 | Açores (Horta) – Figueira da Foz | 932 nm – 8 days | 3200€

Sailing Expedition from Horta to Figueira da Foz – A Journey Along Portugal’s Historic Coastline

Set sail on a stunning offshore voyage from Horta, Faial, to Figueira da Foz, Portugal, aboard a Hallberg Rassy 382, a yacht designed for comfort and performance in ocean sailing. This passage combines the thrill of bluewater sailing with the excitement of making landfall along Portugal’s picturesque coastline.

From the Legendary Horta to Mainland Portugal

Departing from Horta, one of the most iconic stopovers for transatlantic sailors, we leave behind the vibrant murals of the Horta Marina and the legendary Peter Café Sport, a meeting point for adventurers from around the world. As we set course eastward, we embrace the open Atlantic—a realm of rolling swells, steady winds, and boundless horizons.

Unlike the westward crossings, this return journey presents dynamic wind conditions, requiring keen navigation and seamless teamwork. As we make our way toward mainland Portugal, we experience the power of the Atlantic while honing our offshore sailing skills.

Life at Sea – The Rhythm of Offshore Sailing

This passage offers an authentic bluewater experience, where the days are defined by the elements, the sea, and the sky:

⛵ Sailing and Navigation – Adjusting sails, trimming course, and mastering ocean navigation techniques.
🌞 Sunrises and Sunsets – Each day ends with an unforgettable horizon, glowing in shades of gold and crimson.
✨ Starry Nights at Sea – With no light pollution, the Milky Way illuminates the sky, and shooting stars trace their paths above.
🐬 Wildlife Encounters – Watch as dolphins play alongside the hull, seabirds glide effortlessly, and perhaps even whales make an appearance.

The Arrival – Figueira da Foz, Portugal’s Atlantic Gateway

After 8 days at sea, the sight of the Portuguese coastline marks a triumphant return to the mainland. Arriving in Figueira da Foz, we sail past its golden beaches and the mouth of the Mondego River, a historic waterway leading to Coimbra, Portugal’s ancient university city.

Known as the “Queen of Portuguese Beaches,” Figueira da Foz is a vibrant coastal town, offering a well-earned reward of delicious seafood, charming seaside cafés, and a relaxed atmosphere. This historic port has long been a haven for sailors, bridging the gap between the open ocean and the cultural heart of Portugal.

A True Offshore Adventure

This ocean passage is more than just a sailing trip—it’s a test of skill, endurance, and the raw beauty of offshore sailing. Whether you’re an experienced sailor looking to log miles or an adventurer drawn to the vastness of the sea, this voyage promises a journey you’ll never forget.

⛵ Join us for this unforgettable passage from Horta to Figueira da Foz—an adventure across the Atlantic and into the heart of Portugal! Secure your spot today!

Program

Planned sailing dates: 20 – 27 August, 2025 (subject to change). 932 nautical miles of sailing. 8 days of sailing

August 20th, 14:00 – Safety briefing and lunch. Departure according to weather conditions.

August 27th – Expected arrival

Onboard Activities

Participants will actively participate in all navigation activities, including:

• Route planning and weather
• Paper and electronic cartography
• AIS and Radar
• Safety and survival at sea
• Effort management and shifts
• Satellite communications at sea
• Forecasting and anticipating weather events
• Piloting, shifts, and briefings
• Cooking onboard at sea
• Energy management
• Comfort, well-being, and seasickness at sea
• Man overboard daytime and nighttime

Arriving in Horta, Faial

Your journey begins in Horta, Faial, one of the most famous sailing hubs in the Atlantic. The easiest way to get there is by flying into Horta Airport (IATA code: HOR), which connects to mainland Portugal and other Azorean islands.

If you’re flying internationally, you’ll first need to arrive in Portugal via Lisbon (LIS) or Porto (OPO) and take a connecting flight to Horta. The main airline serving Horta is Azores Airlines (SATA), offering flights from Lisbon, Ponta Delgada, and Terceira.

✈️ Alternative routes to Horta:

• Fly into Ponta Delgada (PDL) or Terceira (TER) and take a short connecting flight to Horta.
• Take a ferry from Pico or São Jorge if you are already exploring the Azores.

Upon arrival, the marina is just a short taxi ride from the airport.

For more details on flights, visit:
🛫 Horta Airport: www.aeroportohorta.pt

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Departing from Figueira da Foz

After completing our ocean passage, we arrive in Figueira da Foz, a vibrant coastal city on Portugal’s mainland. To continue your travels:

🚆 By Train: Figueira da Foz is well-connected by rail, with direct trains to Coimbra (30 min), where you can transfer to high-speed trains to Lisbon (LIS) or Porto (OPO) Airports.
🚌 By Bus: Long-distance buses connect Figueira da Foz to major Portuguese cities.

✈️ International Departures:

• Lisbon Airport (LIS): Portugal’s largest international hub, offering flights to Europe, North America, and beyond. (~2.5–3 hours by train or car)
• Porto Airport (OPO): A major European airport with excellent connections. (~1.5–2 hours by train or car)

For up-to-date travel information, visit:
🛫 Lisbon Airport: www.aeroportolisboa.pt
🛫 Porto Airport: www.aeroportoporto.pt

Important: Don’t book your return flight in advance with consulting the skipper

How to Join

Send an email to micaelo@noland.pt to confirm seat availability and make full payment before boarding.

Very Important Information

What to expect from a high-sea journey

Frequently Asked Questions

Booking and Preparing for the Journey

What’s Included