Lajes das Flores - General Info

Where is Lajes das Flores?

Flores is the westernmost island of the Azores, so named for its flowers. Miles and miles of hydrangeas, cannas and wild roses line the roads and the steep volcanic peaks are terraced by fields bordered by stone walls lined with yet more hydrangeas. The lakes of the interior are worth a visit, some with waterfalls. The locals here are reported to be very friendly and helpful.

Lajes is located on the southeast coast of the island and is the administrative center.

The island has little in the way of yachting facilities.

In October 2019, hurricane Lorenzo destroyed the pier of the port of Flores, the island’s only commercial port, which was again affected, in December 2022, due to the passage of storm Efrain. Reconstruction of the port and associated marina is on-going and not expected to be completed until 2028 (see news item here for more details). This means docking and anchoring space is very limited. See Docking for more details.

If you require comforts like shore power or services like important repairs, refits or specialist chandlery, give this port a miss. .

An excellent guide to the island can be found here.

Entrance Notes and Cautions:

• Do not call the harbour or the harbourmaster in advance asking about berth availability. There are no reservations, space is allocated on a first come-first served basis and availability changes daily in the season.
• On approach, keep watch on channel 16/12. You can call Lajes Harbour on 16/12 as soon as you have visual contact . You may also be hailed by the harbour.
• The harbour does not work 24/7.
• This is NOT a good refuge in any conditions involving strong E-NE winds as the inner harbour becomes very turbulent and it is difficult to manoeuver inside. If you arrive in fresh easterly winds, consider anchoring in Fajã Grande Bay on the West side of the island, you cannot clear in there but it will be more comfortable and safer until you get to Lajes harbour or you move on.
• If you arrive at night, do not enter the inner harbour, anchor in the bay.
• Be aware of the strong likelihood of having to anchor and prepare your ground tackle and tender accordingly.
• If you hope to find space on the wall, have strong fenders and long mooring lines ready and prepared. Vessels raft 3 deep here.
• Being low on diesel is not an emergency or distress situation unless you are a power driven vessel. Assistance may be rendered at full commercial rates.
• It is recommended to speak with officials on arrival to find out weather conditions for the duration of your stay in order to determine how long you should spend here.

Position:

39° 22.78'N, 31°10.15'W (Marina)

Last updated:  March 2025