São Miguel: Private Romantic Cruise with Champagne

Planning a romantic getaway or just looking to add a splash of elegance to your Azores trip? This private cruise on São Miguel promises a memorable two-hour journey along the island’s coast, complete with champagne, chocolates, and breathtaking views. While it’s not a full-day adventure or an activity for everyone, it’s a choice that can truly elevate a special occasion or simply make a day feel extraordinary.

What we really like about this experience is how personalized it feels—you’re not part of a big group, but rather sharing an intimate moment with your loved one, enjoying the Atlantic’s energy. The option to choose between a morning, afternoon, or sunset cruise is a thoughtful touch, allowing you to match the timing with your mood or plans. And the inclusion of little luxuries like flowers and onboard music helps set the mood for a romantic escape.

That said, a possible consideration is the limited duration—two hours can fly by quickly, especially if you get caught up in the scenery or conversation. Also, note that this activity is designed for couples, so it’s not necessarily family-friendly if you’re traveling with kids or non-swimmers. Still, if you’re after a refined, private experience with a dash of indulgence, this cruise could be a highlight of your São Miguel visit.

In the end, this tour best suits couples looking to celebrate something special, or those who want to add a touch of elegance to their Azores adventure without committing to a longer or more complex activity. If you’re after a relaxing, personalized, and scenic experience, this cruise might be just what you need.

Key Points

• Intimate Experience: Perfect for couples seeking privacy and romance.
• Flexible Timing: Choose from morning, afternoon, or sunset to suit your vibe.
• Luxury Touches: Champagne, chocolates, and flowers create a special atmosphere.
• Scenic Routes: Stops include Rabo de Peixe, Santa Barbara Beach, Ribeira Grande, and Porto Formoso.
• Personalized Service: The experience can be tailored to make it uniquely yours.
• Value for Price: For $687 per group (up to 2), you get a private, memorable outing with drinks and scenic stops.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Setting the Scene: What’s Included and What to Expect

This cruise is designed as an exclusive, intimate adventure. For $687 per group (up to 2 people), you get to enjoy champagne, chocolates, flowers, onboard music, and the opportunity to swim. The inclusion of staff and insurance adds convenience and peace of mind. The absence of a transfer service means you’ll need to make your way to AG Expeditions’ meeting point, a detail to keep in mind if you’re relying on local transport.

The experience lasts about two hours, making it a manageable yet meaningful outing. The fact that it’s a private group means you won’t be sharing your romantic moments with strangers, which is a big plus if privacy is a priority. The boat’s itinerary includes several scenic stops—Rabo de Peixe, Santa Barbara Beach, Ribeira Grande, and Porto Formoso—each offering unique views and photo opportunities, with some stops specifically designed for sightseeing and photography.

The Itinerary and the Highlights

Starting at AG Expeditions, the cruise heads out along the coast. The first stop at Rabo de Peixe sets the tone with its picturesque fishing village vibe. From there, you’ll cruise past Santa Barbara Beach, which is renowned for its natural beauty and often has great views of the Atlantic’s vastness.

Next, Ribeira Grande offers an opportunity to soak in the local charm and perhaps capture a few memorable photos. The Port of Santa Iria is highlighted as a prime photo stop, providing scenic views that make for excellent shots and a chance to appreciate the rugged coastline. Continuing along, the cruise reaches Praia dos Moinhos, a lovely beach area, and finally, Porto Formoso, known for its dramatic landscapes and scenic vistas.

The route is carefully curated to give you a taste of São Miguel’s varied coastal scenery—from quaint fishing villages to expansive beaches and rocky coastlines. As one review mentioned, “The scenery was stunning, and the boat was comfortable”—which sums up the experience well.

The Experience on Board

The onboard atmosphere is intended to be romantic and relaxed. Expect music that complements the scenic views, and the chance to savor champagne while taking in the Atlantic’s vastness. The inclusion of flowers and chocolates adds a thoughtful touch, helping you create your own special moment.

For those interested in the water, there’s an opportunity to swim, which can be a fun surprise if the weather and sea conditions permit. The crew, noted for their attentive service, ensures safety and comfort throughout. The insurance included helps travelers relax, knowing they’re covered in case of mishaps or emergencies.

The Reviews and What Travelers Say

From actual feedback, travelers appreciate the personalized aspect of this cruise. One reviewer said, “It was a perfect way to celebrate our anniversary—intimate, scenic, and indulgent.” The flexibility to pick the time of day was also widely praised, particularly those opting for the sunset cruise—a magical, almost cinematic experience with the changing colors over the Atlantic.

However, some reviews also point out that two hours can go quickly, especially if you’re busy snapping photos or just soaking in the scenery. A few mention that the price is on the higher side compared to other activities, but many feel the exclusivity and luxury justify the cost.

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Practical Tips for Your Booking

• Meet at the AG Expeditions kiosk—make sure to arrive on time so you can start your experience smoothly.
• Bring comfortable shoes and swimwear if you want to swim; don’t forget your camera and sunscreen.
• Since pick-up and drop-off aren’t included, plan your transportation accordingly.
• The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, people with back or heart problems, non-swimmers, or those prone to seasickness. If these apply, consider alternative activities.

Is It Worth It?

When weighing the price, remember what’s included: a private boat, champagne, chocolates, flowers, scenic stops, and a personalized experience. If you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to indulge in a refined, intimate outing, this cruise offers good value for a unique memory.

If you prefer longer adventures or are traveling on a tighter budget, there are other ways to explore São Miguel’s coast. But for a luxurious, private moment designed to impress your partner, this cruise hits the right notes.

This experience works best for couples who appreciate fine details, privacy, and scenic beauty. If you’re celebrating something special—anniversary, honeymoon, or simply a romantic escape—this cruise can add a memorable touch. It’s also a good fit if you want to avoid crowded tours and prefer a customized, intimate setting.

However, if you’re traveling with young children, non-swimmers, or have health concerns that make being on a boat challenging, this might not be the best fit. Similarly, those seeking a longer or more active adventure might want to look elsewhere.

Is this tour suitable for kids?
This tour is designed for couples and is not specifically family-friendly. It’s best suited for adults, especially those comfortable on boats.

What should I bring on the cruise?
Bring comfortable shoes, swimwear if you want to swim, a towel, camera, sunscreen, and any personal medication you might need.

Can I choose the timing of the cruise?
Yes, you can select a morning, afternoon, or sunset cruise, allowing you to match your plans and preferences.

Is the cruise private?
Absolutely. It’s for a private group of up to two people, ensuring an exclusive experience.

What’s included in the price?
You get champagne, flowers, chocolates, onboard music, staff service, and insurance. The only thing not included is transport to and from the meeting point.

Do I need to worry about seasickness?
The tour isn’t suitable for those prone to seasickness. If you have concerns, consider medication beforehand.

How long does the cruise last?
The experience lasts around two hours, which is enough to enjoy scenic stops and relax without it feeling too rushed.

Is it good for celebrating special occasions?
Yes, many travelers choose this cruise for anniversaries or romantic celebrations thanks to its intimate setting.

Can I swim during the tour?
Yes, there’s an opportunity to swim if weather and sea conditions are favorable.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

If you’re after a refined, private way to enjoy São Miguel’s coast with your partner, this cruise offers a lovely blend of scenery, luxury, and intimacy. It’s a curated experience that, while on the pricier side, can create memories that last a lifetime. Just keep in mind the duration, the weather, and your comfort on the water, and it could be the highlight of your Azores trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: