{"id":93626,"date":"2025-06-27T06:30:20","date_gmt":"2025-06-27T05:30:20","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/oceanpearlsailing.com\/?p=93626"},"modified":"2025-06-29T02:22:31","modified_gmt":"2025-06-29T01:22:31","slug":"azores-vs-canaries-vs-madeira-which-island-archipelago-is-your-perfect-sailing-destination","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/oceanpearlsailing.com\/pt\/azores-vs-canaries-vs-madeira-which-island-archipelago-is-your-perfect-sailing-destination\/","title":{"rendered":"A\u00e7ores vs. Can\u00e1rias vs. Madeira: Que arquip\u00e9lago \u00e9 o seu destino perfeito para velejar?"},"content":{"rendered":"<h2>The Atlantic Triangle: A Sailor&#8217;s First Look at the Azores, Canaries, and Madeira<\/h2>\n<p>Poised in the vast expanse of the North Atlantic, the archipelagos of the Azores, the Canaries, and Madeira form a triangle of unparalleled sailing opportunities. Each possesses a distinct character, shaped by its unique geology, climate, and culture. For sailors, choosing between them is not about finding the &#8220;best&#8221; one, but about discovering the one that best matches their vessel, experience, and desires for adventure. This comparison is your first chart to navigating that decision.<\/p>\n<h3>What Defines Each Archipelago?<\/h3>\n<p><strong>The Azores:<\/strong> Imagine a cluster of emerald islands piercing the surface of the mid-Atlantic. The Azores are wild, verdant, and palpably remote. These islands are a legendary waypoint for transatlantic sailors, offering a dramatic reward of volcanic landscapes, crater lakes, and some of the world&#8217;s most spectacular whale watching. The sailing here is a genuine adventure, a dance with the ocean in a place that feels untouched by time.<\/p>\n<p><strong>The Canary Islands:<\/strong> Sun-drenched, bustling, and incredibly diverse, the Canaries are the quintessential winter sailing hub. Fanned by reliable trade winds, this archipelago offers a dynamic circuit of varied islands. You can sail from the desert dunes and white-sand beaches of Fuerteventura and Lanzarote to the pine-covered mountains of La Palma and the vibrant energy of Tenerife and Gran Canaria, all within manageable distances.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Madeira:<\/strong> Sophisticated and spectacularly mountainous, Madeira is often called the &#8220;Floating Garden of the Atlantic.&#8221; The experience here is more focused, centered on the main island&#8217;s lush beauty and its smaller, tranquil neighbor, Porto Santo. It\u2019s a destination that pairs beautiful coastal sailing with world-class onshore activities, from hiking the famous <strong>levada<\/strong> irrigation channels to exploring the botanical wonders of Funchal.<\/p>\n<h3>Who is This Guide For?<\/h3>\n<p>This comparison is designed for the discerning sailor in the crucial planning phase. We aim to provide clear, practical insights if you are:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>A cruiser planning a transatlantic crossing and seeking the perfect mid-ocean respite.<\/li>\n<li>A sailor looking for a compelling European charter destination with a unique character.<\/li>\n<li>A boater weighing options for a rewarding winter or summer sailing season.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>Sailing Conditions and Best Seasons: A Head-to-Head<\/h2>\n<p>The character of the wind and sea defines any sailing ground. In the Atlantic, these three archipelagos offer distinctly different experiences, dictated by their unique geography and position relative to major weather systems. Understanding these nuances is the first step in choosing your ideal destination.<\/p>\n<h3>The Azores: The Challenge of the Azores High<\/h3>\n<p>Sailing in the Azores is a conversation with the ocean in its purest form. The conditions are governed by the famous\u2014and sometimes fickle\u2014<strong>Azores High<\/strong>, the semi-permanent high-pressure system that influences weather across the North Atlantic. This makes for a more tactical and less predictable sailing experience than in the other archipelagos.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Winds:<\/strong> Expect variability. While summer often brings pleasant light to moderate northeasterlies, winds can shift or die off entirely as the high-pressure cell moves. Conversely, low-pressure systems can track through, bringing stronger winds from any quadrant. Diligent weather forecasting is not just recommended; it&#8217;s an essential part of the daily routine.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Sea State:<\/strong> Situated in the mid-Atlantic, the islands are constantly exposed to an underlying ocean swell. Even on calm days, a long, gentle roll is a reminder of your remote location. Passages between island groups are true blue-water sails and can be challenging, requiring respect for the open ocean.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Best Season:<\/strong> The prime sailing window is from <strong>June to September<\/strong>. During these months, the Azores High is generally more stable, resulting in warmer temperatures, more sunshine, and more reliable sailing winds. Winter is reserved for the most experienced and well-prepared sailors, as it can bring a succession of powerful gales.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>The Canary Islands: Riding the Trade Winds<\/h3>\n<p>The Canaries are the classic winter sun destination for a reason: the weather is famously reliable. The islands lie squarely in the path of the Northeast trade winds, providing consistent and dependable power for your sails, making it a sailor&#8217;s playground.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Winds:<\/strong> The Northeast trade winds are the defining feature, particularly consistent from May to August. A key phenomenon to master are the <strong>acceleration zones<\/strong>. As wind funnels between the tall, volcanic islands like Tenerife and Gran Canaria, it can increase in strength by 10-15 knots suddenly. This creates exciting, fast sailing but requires a reef-ready crew.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Sea State:<\/strong> Generally, the sea state is moderate and manageable. However, in the acceleration zones, the combination of strong winds and opposing currents can kick up a steep, confused sea. The southern coasts of the islands typically offer a comfortable lee, providing calmer waters for more relaxed cruising.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Best Season:<\/strong> You can sail here year-round. However, the peak season for visiting cruisers is from <strong>October to April<\/strong>. This is when thousands of sailors arrive from Europe to escape the cold, and the archipelago buzzes with activity. It&#8217;s also the staging point for the Atlantic Rally for Cruisers (ARC) in November.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Madeira: A Milder, More Contained Experience<\/h3>\n<p>Madeira offers a more tempered version of Atlantic sailing. It feels less wild than the Azores and less boisterous than the Canaries, providing a sophisticated balance of pleasant sailing and dramatic coastal scenery.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Winds:<\/strong> The winds are typically moderate northeasterlies, influenced by the same trade wind belt as the Canaries but generally less intense. The towering main island of Madeira creates a significant wind shadow on its south coast, where the main marinas are located. This often results in very light winds close to shore, while the passage to Porto Santo will give you a true taste of the Atlantic breeze.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Sea State:<\/strong> The island&#8217;s exposure means its north coast can be battered by significant Atlantic swell. In contrast, the south coast is usually very well protected, offering calm conditions. The deep water and steep cliffs around the main island mean secure anchorages are scarce, making marinas the preferred choice for shelter.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Best Season:<\/strong> The most pleasant time to visit is from <strong>abril a outubro<\/strong>. This period delivers the best combination of warm, dry weather, comfortable sea temperatures, and reliable winds for the 40-nautical-mile passage to the golden sands of Porto Santo.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>Island Hopping and Itinerary Potential<\/h2>\n<h3>The Azores: A True Explorer&#8217;s Itinerary<\/h3>\n<p>Sailing in the Azores is less about casual island hopping and more about undertaking a genuine maritime expedition. The archipelago is spread across three distinct groups\u2014Eastern, Central, and Western\u2014with significant open-ocean passages of 60 to 130 nautical miles separating them. This isn&#8217;t a destination for spontaneous day-sails; it demands thoughtful passage planning, a keen eye on the weather, and a self-sufficient mindset. The rewards for this commitment, however, are immense.<\/p>\n<p>Each island group, and indeed each island, offers a profoundly different character. You can sail from the lush, pastoral landscapes and vibrant crater lakes of <strong>S\u00e3o Miguel<\/strong> in the Eastern group, to the dramatic, stark volcanic cone of <strong>Pico<\/strong> in the Central group, and onward to the remote, waterfall-draped cliffs of <strong>Flores<\/strong> in the Western group. This variety makes the Azores a destination for the sailor who is as much an explorer as a tourist, seeking authentic and unspoiled experiences.<\/p>\n<p>Given the distances involved, a proper Azorean sailing trip requires time. To do justice to even a single island group, such as the popular Central cluster (Faial, Pico, S\u00e3o Jorge, Terceira, and Graciosa), you should plan for a minimum of two to three weeks. A full archipelago tour is a summer-long endeavour, best suited for cruisers with flexible schedules.<\/p>\n<h3>The Canary Islands: The Classic Sailing Circuit<\/h3>\n<p>In stark contrast to the Azores, the Canary Islands are the quintessential island-hopping playground. The distances between most of the main islands are perfectly suited for comfortable day-sails, allowing for a relaxed and flexible itinerary. A short passage of around 25 nautical miles can take you from the bustling ports of <strong>Tenerife<\/strong> to the tranquil, rugged charm of <strong>La Gomera<\/strong>, or from the golden beaches of <strong>Fuerteventura<\/strong> to the volcanic moonscapes of <strong>Lanzarote<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p>The archipelago\u2019s greatest strength is its astonishing variety packed into a compact area. Within a single week, you can experience a complete change of scenery and culture. One day might be spent exploring the vast, Sahara-like sand dunes of Maspalomas on <strong>Gran Canaria<\/strong>, and the next could involve hiking through the verdant, ancient pine forests of <strong>La Palma<\/strong>. This diversity extends to the atmosphere, from the lively tourist hubs with vibrant nightlife to quiet, traditional villages seemingly lost in time.<\/p>\n<p>This accessibility makes the Canaries an ideal destination for a one or two-week charter holiday. Sailors can easily craft an itinerary that includes several islands, balancing sailing time with ample opportunity for onshore exploration, without feeling rushed. It\u2019s a reliable and rewarding circuit that offers something for every type of crew.<\/p>\n<h3>Madeira: Quality over Quantity<\/h3>\n<p>A sailing itinerary in the Madeira archipelago is an exercise in depth rather than breadth. The potential for island hopping is limited but meaningful. The primary sailing passage is the 40-nautical-mile trip from the main island of <strong>Madeira<\/strong> to its smaller, serene neighbour, <strong>Porto Santo<\/strong>. This single passage provides a satisfying taste of open-water sailing before you arrive at the stunning golden sand beaches that Madeira itself lacks.<\/p>\n<p>The focus here is on thoroughly exploring the main island from its well-equipped marinas, using your boat as a base for incredible land-based adventures. You can moor in a comfortable marina and spend days hiking the famous <em>levadas<\/em>, exploring the botanical gardens of Funchal, or discovering secluded coastal villages. For the more adventurous sailor with the proper permits, a journey to the uninhabited <strong>Desertas Islands<\/strong> or the remote <strong>Selvagens Islands<\/strong> offers a rare glimpse into pristine, protected marine ecosystems.<\/p>\n<p>A one-week trip is perfectly suited for a Madeiran sailing holiday. This allows enough time to enjoy the comforts and sights of the main island and to make the passage to Porto Santo for a few days of relaxation and anchoring. It\u2019s an ideal choice for those who want a balanced vacation of sailing, nature, and refined culture without the pressure of a multi-island itinerary.<\/p>\n<h2>Marinas, Anchorages, and Onshore Facilities<\/h2>\n<p>Beyond the wind and waves, the practicalities of where to moor your vessel are crucial. Each archipelago offers a distinct character in its harbours, from legendary sailor haunts to modern, full-service marinas and secluded anchorages.<\/p>\n<h3>Marinas in the Azores<\/h3>\n<p>The Azores are synonymous with one of the most famous names in cruising: <strong>Horta<\/strong>. The marina on the island of Faial is more than just a place to tie up; it&#8217;s a living gallery of transatlantic dreams, where sailors from around the world leave their mark by painting a mural on the harbour walls. It\u2019s a rite of passage. Beyond this legendary hub, the archipelago is well-served by other modern facilities. <strong>Ponta Delgada<\/strong> on S\u00e3o Miguel and <strong>Angra do Hero\u00edsmo<\/strong> on Terceira offer excellent, well-protected berths with all the necessary amenities for repairs and provisioning.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Quality &amp; Cost:<\/strong> The marinas are generally of a high standard, with recent upgrades across the islands. In terms of cost, the Azores are typically more affordable than the Canary Islands, offering good value for the quality of service.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Anchorages:<\/strong> While anchoring is possible in some bays, the mid-Atlantic location means most are exposed to ocean swell. The steep underwater topography can also make for deep anchorages. For these reasons, most visiting sailors opt for the security and comfort of a marina berth.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Marinas in the Canary Islands<\/h3>\n<p>As a premier winter sailing destination, the Canary Islands boast a comprehensive and competitive network of marinas. You are never far from a safe harbour. Major hubs like <strong>Las Palmas<\/strong> in Gran Canaria (the traditional starting point for the ARC rally) and <strong>Santa Cruz<\/strong> in Tenerife are large, bustling ports with extensive facilities. For a more resort-style experience, <strong>Marina Rubic\u00f3n<\/strong> in Lanzarote and <strong>Puerto de Mog\u00e1n<\/strong> in Gran Canaria offer high-end services in picturesque settings.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Quality &amp; Cost:<\/strong> The standard of facilities is consistently high across the board. This popularity comes at a price, however, as the Canaries are the most expensive of the three archipelagos, especially from October to April. Booking a berth well in advance is not just recommended; it&#8217;s often essential.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Anchorages:<\/strong> A key advantage of the Canaries is the abundance of well-protected anchorages. From the sandy bays of Fuerteventura and Lanzarote to the sheltered coves on the leeward side of Gran Canaria and Tenerife, there are numerous opportunities to drop the hook and enjoy the islands for free, providing a welcome alternative to pricier marina stays.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Marinas in Madeira<\/h3>\n<p>Madeira offers a more concentrated but high-quality selection of marinas. The main island has three primary options: <strong>Marina Funchal<\/strong>, located conveniently in the heart of the capital; <strong>Marina da Calheta<\/strong> on the sunny southwest coast; and the impressive <strong>Quinta do Lorde<\/strong>, a purpose-built resort complex on the eastern tip with outstanding facilities. A crucial part of any Madeiran itinerary is the passage to its sister island, Porto Santo, which has its own well-regarded marina.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Quality &amp; Cost:<\/strong> Facilities are excellent, particularly at Quinta do Lorde, which feels like a self-contained village. Pricing is moderate, generally falling between the lower costs of the Azores and the premium rates of the Canaries.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Anchorages:<\/strong> The main island of Madeira presents a significant challenge for anchoring. Its coastline is famously steep-to, with cliffs plunging directly into deep water, leaving very few safe, all-weather options. In contrast, the nearby island of <strong>Porto Santo<\/strong> offers a superb and very popular large bay with a golden sand bottom, providing excellent holding and a beautiful spot to spend a few days at anchor.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>Landscape and Onshore Activities<\/h2>\n<p>Beyond the marina gates, each archipelago offers a profoundly different world to explore. Your choice may ultimately come down to what you want to do when you&#8217;re not at the helm, from rugged volcanic hikes to sophisticated garden tours.<\/p>\n<h3>The Azores: Raw Nature and Volcanic Wonders<\/h3>\n<p>The vibe in the Azores is one of raw, untamed nature. It feels adventurous and remote, a place where the land is still being shaped by powerful forces. The islands are intensely green, with rolling pastures and hydrangea-lined roads that abruptly give way to black volcanic rock and steaming fumaroles. It\u2019s a destination for those who feel most at home in the wild.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Hiking to crater lakes:<\/strong> The iconic view of <strong>Sete Cidades<\/strong> on S\u00e3o Miguel, with its twin blue and green lakes nestled in a vast caldera, is a must-see. Hiking the crater rim provides unforgettable perspectives of this natural wonder.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Whale and dolphin watching:<\/strong> As one of the world&#8217;s premier cetacean sanctuaries, the Azores offer incredible opportunities to see sperm whales, blue whales, and several species of dolphins in their natural habitat.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Exploring volcanic geology:<\/strong> Descend into the ancient lava tube of <strong>Algar do Carv\u00e3o<\/strong> on Terceira island or relax in the geothermal hot springs of Furnas on S\u00e3o Miguel, where locals cook &#8220;cozido&#8221; underground using volcanic heat.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Visiting UNESCO World Heritage sites:<\/strong> Wander the beautifully preserved Renaissance streets of <strong>Angra do Hero\u00edsmo<\/strong> on Terceira, a historic maritime hub. On Pico, the unique landscape of black stone vineyards, also a UNESCO site, tells a story of human ingenuity.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>The Canary Islands: A Microcontinent of Contrasts<\/h3>\n<p>The Canaries feel like a miniature continent, with each island offering a distinct personality. The atmosphere is generally lively and well-equipped for visitors, but wild, dramatic landscapes are always just a short drive away. You can experience Saharan dunes, lush pine forests, and stark volcanic plains all within the same archipelago, making it a destination of incredible variety.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Hiking Mount Teide National Park:<\/strong> On Tenerife, explore the surreal, lunar-like landscapes surrounding Spain&#8217;s highest peak, <strong>Mount Teide<\/strong>. A cable car ride or a challenging hike offers breathtaking views above the clouds.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Exploring the sand dunes of Maspalomas:<\/strong> Gran Canaria is home to a spectacular protected system of vast sand dunes that meet the blue Atlantic. Walking through this mini-desert is a unique and mesmerizing experience.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Discovering the art of C\u00e9sar Manrique:<\/strong> On Lanzarote, witness how local artist C\u00e9sar Manrique masterfully blended art and architecture with the island&#8217;s volcanic nature. Visit his creations like <strong>Jameos del Agua<\/strong> or the <strong>Mirador del R\u00edo<\/strong> for a unique aesthetic experience.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Enjoying the beaches and water sports:<\/strong> From the endless white-sand beaches of Fuerteventura, a mecca for windsurfers and kitesurfers, to the charming black-sand coves of La Palma and La Gomera, the islands offer a full spectrum of coastal activities.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Madeira: The Floating Garden of the Atlantic<\/h3>\n<p>Madeira exudes a sense of cultured elegance against a backdrop of breathtakingly steep and lush scenery. The vibe is sophisticated yet deeply connected to nature. The island is famous for its meticulously cultivated gardens, charming villages clinging to cliffsides, and a network of unique hiking trails. It\u2019s a place for those who appreciate natural beauty, fine food and wine, and a more tranquil pace of life.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Walking the famous &#8220;levadas&#8221;:<\/strong> Hike along the island\u2019s unique irrigation channels, which form a 2,000 km network of trails. These paths guide you through the heart of the UNESCO-listed Laurisilva forest, past waterfalls and with spectacular mountain views.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Exploring the botanical gardens of Funchal:<\/strong> The island&#8217;s subtropical climate has allowed for the creation of world-class gardens. The <strong>Jardim Tropical Monte Palace<\/strong> and the Madeira Botanical Garden are showcases of exotic flora from around the globe.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Enjoying a thrilling toboggan ride:<\/strong> For a truly unique experience, take a traditional wicker toboggan sled ride down the steep hills from the village of Monte to the capital, Funchal, guided by two &#8220;carreiros&#8221; in classic white attire.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Sampling Madeira wine:<\/strong> No trip is complete without tasting the island&#8217;s famous fortified wine. Visit one of the historic wine lodges in Funchal to learn about its centuries-old production process and sample the different varieties.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>At-a-Glance: Which Archipelago is Right for You?<\/h2>\n<p>The perfect sailing destination is a deeply personal choice, balancing your appetite for adventure with your desire for comfort. Each of these Atlantic archipelagos offers a distinct character. Below, we distill their essence to help you find your ideal match.<\/p>\n<h3>Choose the Azores if&#8230;<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>You are an experienced sailor who thrives on a challenge and finds satisfaction in strategic passage planning. The variable winds and open-ocean swells are part of the adventure, not a deterrent.<\/li>\n<li>You prioritize raw, dramatic nature far from the tourist crowds. Your ideal day ends with a quiet anchorage surrounded by volcanic cliffs, not a bustling waterfront bar.<\/li>\n<li>You are undertaking a transatlantic crossing. The Azores, particularly the legendary port of Horta, are not just a convenient stopover but a celebrated milestone in a sailor\u2019s journey.<\/li>\n<li>You relish the journey as much as the destination. The significant distances between island groups offer true blue-water sailing and a profound sense of exploration and accomplishment.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Choose the Canary Islands if&#8230;<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>You seek dependable sailing conditions and a reliable dose of winter sun. The consistent trade winds and warm climate make for pleasant and predictable sailing, ideal for escaping colder latitudes.<\/li>\n<li>You enjoy a vibrant, social sailing scene. With a high density of well-equipped marinas and popular anchorages, it\u2019s easy to connect with fellow cruisers and share experiences.<\/li>\n<li>You want maximum variety in a compact area. Hopping from the desert dunes of <strong>Fuerteventura<\/strong> to the pine forests of <strong>La Palma<\/strong> is easily achievable, offering a new landscape with every short passage.<\/li>\n<li>You are planning a one or two-week charter holiday. The Canaries offer a perfect circuit where you can experience several distinct islands without spending all your time on long passages.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Choose Madeira if&#8230;<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>You prefer a more relaxed itinerary that favors deep exploration over long-distance island hopping. The focus here is on savoring the main island and its tranquil neighbor, <strong>Porto Santo<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<li>Your passions extend beyond the helm to include world-class hiking, refined gastronomy, and rich cultural experiences. The famous <strong>levada<\/strong> walks and the charm of Funchal are major draws.<\/li>\n<li>You appreciate a balance of superb marina facilities and breathtaking natural beauty. You can enjoy the comfort of a modern marina as your base for exploring the island\u2019s staggeringly steep and verdant landscape.<\/li>\n<li>You are looking for a sophisticated and less crowded alternative to the main Canary hubs, offering a more tranquil and polished atmosphere.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>Quick-Reference Comparison Table<\/h2>\n<div>\n<table style=\"width:100%;border-collapse: collapse;font-family: sans-serif;margin-top: 20px;font-size: 16px\">\n<thead style=\"background-color: #f7f7f7\">\n<tr>\n<th style=\"padding: 15px;border: 1px solid #e0e0e0;text-align: left\">Characteristic<\/th>\n<th style=\"padding: 15px;border: 1px solid #e0e0e0;text-align: left\">The Azores<\/th>\n<th style=\"padding: 15px;border: 1px solid #e0e0e0;text-align: left\">The Canary Islands<\/th>\n<th style=\"padding: 15px;border: 1px solid #e0e0e0;text-align: left\">Madeira<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr style=\"border-bottom: 1px solid #e0e0e0\">\n<td style=\"padding: 15px;border: 1px solid #e0e0e0;text-align: left\"><strong>Best Season<\/strong><\/td>\n<td style=\"padding: 15px;border: 1px solid #e0e0e0;text-align: left\">\u2600\ufe0f June &#8211; September<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding: 15px;border: 1px solid #e0e0e0;text-align: left\">\u2600\ufe0f\u2600\ufe0f Year-round (Prime: Oct &#8211; Apr)<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding: 15px;border: 1px solid #e0e0e0;text-align: left\">\u2600\ufe0f April &#8211; October<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"border-bottom: 1px solid #e0e0e0\">\n<td style=\"padding: 15px;border: 1px solid #e0e0e0;text-align: left\"><strong>Wind Reliability<\/strong><\/td>\n<td style=\"padding: 15px;border: 1px solid #e0e0e0;text-align: left\">\ud83d\udca8 Variable \/ Unpredictable<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding: 15px;border: 1px solid #e0e0e0;text-align: left\">\ud83d\udca8\ud83d\udca8 Consistent Trades (strong gusts)<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding: 15px;border: 1px solid #e0e0e0;text-align: left\">\ud83d\udca8 Moderate &amp; Sheltered<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"border-bottom: 1px solid #e0e0e0\">\n<td style=\"padding: 15px;border: 1px solid #e0e0e0;text-align: left\"><strong>Island Hopping Ease<\/strong><\/td>\n<td style=\"padding: 15px;border: 1px solid #e0e0e0;text-align: left\">\u26f5 Challenging (long passages)<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding: 15px;border: 1px solid #e0e0e0;text-align: left\">\u26f5\u26f5 Easy (short day sails)<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding: 15px;border: 1px solid #e0e0e0;text-align: left\">\u26f5 Limited (one main passage)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"border-bottom: 1px solid #e0e0e0\">\n<td style=\"padding: 15px;border: 1px solid #e0e0e0;text-align: left\"><strong>Marina Availability<\/strong><\/td>\n<td style=\"padding: 15px;border: 1px solid #e0e0e0;text-align: left\">Good (key hubs)<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding: 15px;border: 1px solid #e0e0e0;text-align: left\">Excellent (numerous)<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding: 15px;border: 1px solid #e0e0e0;text-align: left\">Excellent (but few)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"border-bottom: 1px solid #e0e0e0\">\n<td style=\"padding: 15px;border: 1px solid #e0e0e0;text-align: left\"><strong>Anchorage Quality<\/strong><\/td>\n<td style=\"padding: 15px;border: 1px solid #e0e0e0;text-align: left\">Fair (often exposed)<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding: 15px;border: 1px solid #e0e0e0;text-align: left\">Very Good (plentiful)<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding: 15px;border: 1px solid #e0e0e0;text-align: left\">Limited (good at Porto Santo)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"border-bottom: 1px solid #e0e0e0\">\n<td style=\"padding: 15px;border: 1px solid #e0e0e0;text-align: left\"><strong>Cost<\/strong><\/td>\n<td style=\"padding: 15px;border: 1px solid #e0e0e0;text-align: left\">$ (Affordable)<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding: 15px;border: 1px solid #e0e0e0;text-align: left\">$$ (Moderate)<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding: 15px;border: 1px solid #e0e0e0;text-align: left\">$$ (Moderate to Upscale)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"border-bottom: 1px solid #e0e0e0\">\n<td style=\"padding: 15px;border: 1px solid #e0e0e0;text-align: left\"><strong>Natural Scenery<\/strong><\/td>\n<td style=\"padding: 15px;border: 1px solid #e0e0e0;text-align: left\">\ud83c\udf3f\ud83c\udf3f\ud83c\udf3f Raw &amp; Volcanic<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding: 15px;border: 1px solid #e0e0e0;text-align: left\">\ud83c\udf3f\ud83c\udf3f Microcontinent of Contrasts<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding: 15px;border: 1px solid #e0e0e0;text-align: left\">\ud83c\udf3f\ud83c\udf3f\ud83c\udf3f Lush Floating Garden<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"padding: 15px;border: 1px solid #e0e0e0;text-align: left\"><strong>Nightlife &amp; Social Scene<\/strong><\/td>\n<td style=\"padding: 15px;border: 1px solid #e0e0e0;text-align: left\">Quiet (sailors&#8217; hubs)<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding: 15px;border: 1px solid #e0e0e0;text-align: left\">Lively &amp; Varied<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding: 15px;border: 1px solid #e0e0e0;text-align: left\">Sophisticated &amp; Relaxed<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>O Tri\u00e2ngulo Atl\u00e2ntico: A Sailor's First Look at the Azores, Canaries, and Madeira Situados na vasta extens\u00e3o do Atl\u00e2ntico Norte, os arquip\u00e9lagos dos A\u00e7ores, Can\u00e1rias e Madeira formam um tri\u00e2ngulo de oportunidades de navega\u00e7\u00e3o sem paralelo. Cada um possui um car\u00e1cter distinto, moldado pela sua geologia, clima e cultura \u00fanicos. Para os marinheiros, escolher entre [...]<\/p>","protected":false},"author":28,"featured_media":93930,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_seopress_titles_title":"Azores vs. Canaries vs. Madeira: Which Island Archipelago is Your Perfect Sailing Destination?\u00a0(A very useful comparison article that will capture search traffic from people in the decision-making phase).","_seopress_titles_desc":"","_seopress_robots_index":"","_seopress_robots_follow":"","_seopress_robots_imageindex":"","_seopress_robots_snippet":"","_seopress_robots_primary_cat":"","_seopress_robots_breadcrumbs":"","_seopress_robots_freeze_modified_date":"","_seopress_robots_custom_modified_date":"","_seopress_robots_canonical":"","_seopress_social_fb_title":"","_seopress_social_fb_desc":"","_seopress_social_fb_img":"","_seopress_social_fb_img_attachment_id":0,"_seopress_social_fb_img_width":0,"_seopress_social_fb_img_height":0,"_seopress_social_twitter_title":"","_seopress_social_twitter_desc":"","_seopress_social_twitter_img":"","_seopress_social_twitter_img_attachment_id":0,"_seopress_social_twitter_img_width":0,"_seopress_social_twitter_img_height":0,"_seopress_redirections_value":"","_seopress_redirections_enabled":"","_seopress_redirections_enabled_regex":"","_seopress_redirections_logged_status":"","_seopress_redirections_param":"","_seopress_redirections_type":0,"_seopress_analysis_target_kw":"","iawp_total_views":1,"footnotes":""},"categories":[],"tags":[12408,3863,3846,3854,12439,3847,3719],"article-type":[],"collection":[],"country":[],"location":[],"class_list":["post-93626","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","tag-adventure","tag-beach","tag-destination-guide","tag-madeira","tag-sailing","tag-trip-planning","tag-whale-watching"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/oceanpearlsailing.com\/pt\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/93626","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/oceanpearlsailing.com\/pt\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/oceanpearlsailing.com\/pt\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/oceanpearlsailing.com\/pt\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/28"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/oceanpearlsailing.com\/pt\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=93626"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/oceanpearlsailing.com\/pt\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/93626\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":93855,"href":"https:\/\/oceanpearlsailing.com\/pt\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/93626\/revisions\/93855"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/oceanpearlsailing.com\/pt\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/93930"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/oceanpearlsailing.com\/pt\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=93626"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/oceanpearlsailing.com\/pt\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=93626"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/oceanpearlsailing.com\/pt\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=93626"},{"taxonomy":"article-type","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/oceanpearlsailing.com\/pt\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/article-type?post=93626"},{"taxonomy":"collection","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/oceanpearlsailing.com\/pt\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/collection?post=93626"},{"taxonomy":"country","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/oceanpearlsailing.com\/pt\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/country?post=93626"},{"taxonomy":"location","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/oceanpearlsailing.com\/pt\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/location?post=93626"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}