Lush, green and abundant: the Azores will reveal their most beautiful sides in the mild May temperatures. Little visited and largely unknown, the islands allow explorers to experience unspoilt nature. The HANSEATIC spirit's fascinating route to eight of the nine islands promises blooming hydrangeas, bizarre volcanoes, fertile valleys and picturesque towns. With a little luck, the many open deck spaces will allow you to watch marine creatures, as well as the numerous contrasts along the coasts and ashore. After the cruise begins in Sao Miguel, you'll spend an expedition day at sea searching for whales and dolphins. The captain and crew will react spontaneously when a spout of water or a fluke emerges from the water. Such moments cannot be planned, but will awaken the explorer within.

A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and Europe's most westerly point, Flores is an insider tip for nature lovers. Historians will also be in their element: wonderful villas from the 18th and 19th century adorn the village's streets. Get to know the flower island of Flores* from surprising perspectives: the imposing Rocha dos Bordoes are a true sensation, mighty basalt columns that rise up to 30 m (98 ft) out of the landscape like organ pipes. In Faja Grande, the powerful waterfalls will take your breath away. During a hike along ancient island trails*, seas of intensely coloured flowers sway in the wind.

The green pastures and wine-growing areas on Pico create a significant contrast with the island's deep-black volcanic rock. Head for the heart of the crater island of Pico*: at over 2,300 m (7,545 ft), the majestic volcano is Portugal's highest peak, overlooking small villages whose history was shaped by whaling. See the home of the Verdelho wine, famous to this day, when you explore Pico's vineyards on foot*: surrounded by basalt walls, the white grapes used to make this exquisite beverage are cultivated here. Faial is a more cosmopolitan prospect. Every year, thousands of sailing boats and yachts moor in Horta, the island's capital, its old town one of the architectural gems of the Azores archipelago with its manor houses, museums and churches. The legendary Peter Cafe Sport is a meeting place for sailors. It is known for its tales of the high seas and serves perhaps the best gin and tonic in the Atlantic. Marvel at the almost circular Caldeira do Pico Gordo on a panoramic trip through volcanic landscapes*. The Capelinhos volcano on the island's western tip is another natural artwork. For those who love exercise, a hike around the Faial Caldeira* along the around 400 m (1,312 ft) deep crater offers a stunning view of the crater lakes. The green of Sao Jorge's high, steep coast is an impressive sight above the deep blue of the ocean. It is known as the "dragon island" due to its strange, stretched out shape, and also for Saint George, the dragon slayer. Take a walk to explore the small town of Velas at your own pace and discover pictures of the island's patron saint in the paving stones with just such a monster. Natural beauties also await on the smallest of the Azores visited on this cruise: Graciosa, the "enchanting" island. Small villages, volcanoes and a bubbling sulphur cave await on your island tour* to the Calderina crater, which is estimated to be around 20,000 years old. Explore this natural phenomenon in depth on a hike to the Furna do Enxofre*. Steps descend into the funnel of a volcano to around 100 m (328 ft) below the earth's surface. The brightly coloured capital of Terceira was crafted by masters in a Renaissance style. On a city walk through Angra do Heroismo*, follow the cobbled alleys through its centre - a UNESCO World Heritage Site - to the typical white houses, churches and the impressive cathedral. When you explore Terceira in a jeep*, bizarre lava formations and volcanic caves combine with delicious island specialities to fascinate the eyes and palate.

The Azores are both a Garden of Eden and a gateway for beach lovers, as demonstrated by the idyllic island of Santa Maria. Columbus must have felt so joyful when he landed here after returning from America. On an island tour*, traditional colourful houses in the Algarve and Alentejo architectural styles reflect the connection with the Portuguese mainland. Alternatively, go for a hike to Formosa beach*, possibly the most beautiful in the Azores. Enjoy plenty of time for relaxation and soak up the sun before returning home with the special feeling of spring in the middle of the Atlantic.