Vila do Porto - Facts

Where is Vila do Porto?

Lying some 50NM southeast of São Miguel and visible from Ponta Delgada on clear days, Santa Maria was the first of the Azorean islands to be discovered.

The main settlement is Vila do Porto lying on the SW corner of the island. This is NOT a port of entry if coming from outside the Schengen area.

It is an island of two distinct halves: the western part is flat and brown in the summertime and is the site of the airport; the eastern part is hilly and green.  It lies out of the storm belt for most of the time and is known as the Ilha do Sol—the Sunny Island.

Entrance Notes and Cautions

• The entrance to Vila do Porto Marina is via a channel between the east end of the Ferry Pier and the end of the Marina pier, marked by a green beacon.
• During a storm in December 2024 the outer pontoon in Vila do Porto was severely damaged and cannot be used. This has severely restricted the availability of berths in the marina.
• If intending to sail to Santa Maria, it would be wise to consult the marina in Ponta Delgada before going further.
• Anchoring is not permitted in the port area, so the nearest anchorage would be Praia Formosa on the south coast.

Cruiser Highlights

Well sheltered marina; oldest Azorean Island - the Island's traditional houses have white chimneys and blue bars which are a heritage of the first settlers here from Southern Portugal; interesting landscape (either dry and limestone or luxuriant with vineyards); only Azorean Island resting on the African geological plate; well known for its handicrafts and pastry.

Last updated:  May 2025

Position:

36° 56.4'N, 25° 08.75'W (port entrance)