The Azores (Açores), Portugal (March 2001)
In most cases the quickest way between islands in the Azores is by airplane. However Pico and Faial are exceptions, and are easily accessible to each other by regular passenger ferry service. The ferry runs several times a day and takes about a half an hour. This makes it possible to stay on one island and visit the other as a day-trip. When the weather is nice the ferry also doubles as a cheap scenic cruise.
The ferryboat swung from the harbor of Pico’s westernmost town, Madalena (map). Passengers left their cars in the parking lot in the foreground to catch the ferry across to the town of Horta on Faial (map). Their destination was clearly visible several miles across the channel.
Deitado and Em Pé
The ship passed two minor islets after leaving Madalena. The one on the left is Deitado (“Lying Down”) and the one on the right is Em Pé (“Standing Up”). Em Pé can also be seen in the previous photograph. These islets provided nesting places for seabirds including the cagarro. This endangered gull-like species depends upon the unspoiled nature of the Azores for its survival.
Horta
Horta came into view as the ferryboat navigated the channel upon approaching Faial. The town occupied a gentle slope leading down to the sea.
Ferryboat
The ferryboat “Cruzeiro Do Canal” pulled into the dock at Horta on Faial. From there it was a short walk into town. Passengers disembarked and the ship prepared to return to Pico.
This is a great trip when the weather is nice. We crossed one other time as the wind drove large piles of waves. Nobody got sick but that was probably because it was a short voyage. We planned to fly out of Pico but the runway was shut down due to the wind. Thankfully the ferry still ran and we were able to catch a flight from the airport at Faial. It had a longer runway and the prevailing winds were somewhat deflected by nearby mountains.
Articles in The Azores Series
- Index of All Islands Visited
- The Island of Faial
Readers who have an interest in ferries might also want to check my Ferry Index page.
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