Overview
As part of Portugal, the Azores are more affordable than Norway or the Maldives. Charter rates are moderate and Portuguese provisioning costs are reasonable, making it good value for such a distinctive destination.
Charter rates
A bareboat monohull runs $3,000–$6,000 per week; catamarans more. Given the open-ocean passages, many charterers add a skipper (~$1,300/week). The small fleet means early booking is important.
Running costs
Portuguese provisioning is reasonable — budget around $70 per person per day. Marina fees average $45 per night, and fuel for a week of inter-island sailing runs around $300–$400. Whale-watching excursions are an easy add-on.
Sample weekly budget
For 6 people on a bareboat monohull: charter $4,500, food $2,940, marina $315, fuel $350 — roughly $8,105 total, about $1,350 per person. Add a skipper for ~$215 per person.