Madeira

The cable car takes you on a picturesque trip up to Monte, where the first image you see is the twin-towered façade of the 18th century church. The ride takes approximately 15 minutes. (The cable car access is similar to a ski lift. The car does not stop for boarding; it just slows in motion).

You continue to the tropical Monte Palace Gardens, with its excellent collection of trees and exotic plants from all over the world. The Gardens also have several lagoons and waterfalls where you will be able to marvel at the Koi Carp.

After the visit to the Gardens you’ll travel to Pico do Barcelos, which offers a panoramic view of Funchal, the bay and surrounding hills.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by coach, cable car and on foot. The terrain at the Gardens is mostly uneven, with many steps and some steep slopes.

A rack and pinion railway once took passengers up the hillside from Funchal and the return to the coast was by toboggan. The railway closed in 1939, but an Austrian company has constructed a cable car for the trip up to Monte, noted for its many fine properties and gardens. The Funchal station is situated in the old part of town, and the journey from Funchal to Monte takes 15 minutes. (The cable car access is similar to a ski lift. The car does not stop for boarding; it just slows in motion).

Experience the ancient wicker-sled transport on a thrilling 10 minute toboggan ride. The drivers run alongside the toboggans, pushing and steering and using their rubber-soled boots as brakes. Continue by coach to Pico Dos Barcelos, a flower-decked belvedere where you’ll have possibly the best view towards the east.

Your excursion ends at a wine lodge in Funchal, where you have the opportunity to sample the different types of Madeira wine, ranging from the dry Sercial to sweet Malmsey.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by coach, cable car, toboggan. . Infants aged 3 years and younger are not permitted to participate in this tour due to restrictions on the Toboggan. The toboggan is a popular tourist attraction and there may be queues before boarding. Please wear suitable clothing and footwear and follow the instructions of the toboggan drivers once seated. Toboggans hold up to 3 participants (2 adults and 1 child).

A scenic drive brings you to Funchal Ecological Park for your Canyoning adventure.

You will be met by your knowledgeable guide who will provide you with safety equipment and instructions. Then, let the fun commence as you begin your adventure splashing and sliding down the beautiful river falls of Madeira.

This exhilarating sport will have you swimming, jumping and rappelling in small waterfalls, deep ravines and gushing river currents with the help of fixed ropes.

A unique way to discover the natural beauty of Madeira’s hidden wonders set deep inside the secluded valleys. Crystal clear pools, white water streams and cascading waterfalls make this an adventure to remember.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. Care must be taken to follow all instructions given by the guides. Pregnant women and children under the age of 14 may not participate, the maximum weight limit is 240lbs. This excursion is only suitable for those in good physical condition and is not suitable for passengers who suffer from heart, neck, shoulder or back problems, seizures, asthma or balance disorders. You should be a competent swimmer and prepared to get wet. Wetsuits and safety equipment is provided and must be worn at all times. Please wear a swimsuit, casual warm clothes and strong closed toe shoes with a good grip that can get wet and remember to bring a towel, change of shoes and clothing. It is advisable to take a bottle of water and sunscreen. The itinerary is subject to change depending on weather conditions. The Canyoning lasts approximately 2 ½ hours. Before you book this excursion, you must refer to the ‘Activity Excursion’ and ‘Beach / Water Related’ paragraphs under the Guide to Symbols in this brochure.

Madeira is ideally situated on the migratory routes of large game fish and in addition there other species that are resident throughout the year.

The target species are mainly Spearfish, Albacore, Wahoo and Dorado and you may be lucky enough to encounter both Blue and White Marlin. From novice to expert you can experience an enjoyable fishing trip with the surrounding beauty of Madeira as a backdrop.

Enjoy some snacks and drinks whilst waiting for the ‘Big One’ to bite.

Essential information

Passengers wishing to travel on the boat and not take part in the activity should book tour FNC-013 Deep Sea Fishing - Guest. This tour is suitable for beginners as well as experienced fishermen. Pregnant women and children may not participate in this tour. This tour is not suitable for passengers with back problems. Please note that catches are not guaranteed and are dependent on the time of year and local conditions on the day. Numbers are limited; early booking is recommended.

Take the opportunity to accompany a friend or family member on a Deep Sea Fishing tour.

Madeira is ideally situated on the migratory routes of large game fish, and in addition there are other species that are resident throughout the year.

The target species are mainly Spearfish, Albacore, Wahoo and Dorado and you may be lucky enough to encounter both Blue and White Marlin. Sit back and relax onboard the fishing boat with the surrounding beauty of Madeira as a backdrop.

Enjoy some snacks and drinks whilst observing your friends and family as they wait for the ‘Big One’ to bite.

Essential information

This tour is available only to passengers whose friends or family are booked on FNC010 Deep Sea Fishing tour. It is not an option for an individual to book without another member in their party booking FNC010 Deep Sea Fishing. Passengers on this tour will travel on the boat but not take part in the activity. Pregnant women and children may not participate in this tour. This tour is not suitable for passengers with back problems. Please note that catches are not guaranteed and are dependent on the time of year and local conditions on the day. Numbers are limited so early booking is recommended.

The Atlantic Ocean around the Madeira Islands is an idyllic spot for marine mammals, and up to 20 species of cetaceans (whales, dolphins and porpoises) have been spotted in these waters.

A short drive takes you to Funchal Marina, where after a brief introduction you’ll board your high-speed RIB for your thrilling adventure on the water. A Marine Biologist is on hand to answer any questions you may have regarding the various types of sea mammals that visit the waters of Madeira.

Ensure to keep your eyes peeled for short-finned pilot whales, bottlenose dolphins, Atlantic spotted dolphins and common dolphins that will amaze you with their acrobatic moves. You may even be lucky enough to spot the Risso’s dolphins, beaked whales and killer whales that occasionally visit the seas of Madeira.

An experience not to be missed!

Essential information

This excursion will operate by coach and RIB. Children under the age of 8 may and passengers with back or neck injuries, or those who are pregnant, should not participate in this tour. The sighting of whales and dolphins is not guaranteed. There is no shelter on board the RIB. Lifejackets are provided and must be worn, the ride can be bumpy and fast. Flat shoes, preferably with rubber soles, are recommended. In case of poor weather conditions this tour may be cancelled. Before you book this excursion, you must refer to the ‘Activity Excursion’ and ‘Beach / Water Related’ paragraphs under the Guide to Symbols in this brochure.

Leaving Funchal, you’ll head through the outskirts to Monte, noted for its many fine properties and gardens. Perched on a hill above Funchal is the twin-towered 18th century Church of our Lady, (time and opening permitting, there is an optional visit to the Church). In the centre of the high altar stands the statue of Our Lady of Monte, credited with being the source of many miracles.

Drivers in straw hats are waiting just outside the Church to take you on your wicker basket ride, which covers the 2 mile descent in 10 minutes. A cushioned seat softens the ride and you’ll be in the safe hands of the drivers, who run alongside, pushing and steering using their rubber-soled boots as brakes. Heading inland to Pico dos Barcelos, enjoy stunning views of the town of Funchal and the southern coast with villages scattered on green slopes. The tour ends at the Old Blandy’s Wine Lodge with ‘tastings’ of the heart-warming nectar synonymous with this enchanting island.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by coach and toboggan. Infants aged 3 years and younger are not permitted to participate in this tour due to restrictions on the Toboggan. The toboggan is a popular tourist attraction and there may be queues before boarding. Please wear suitable clothing and footwear, and follow the instructions of the toboggan drivers once seated. Toboggans hold up to 3 participants (2 adults and 1 child). You are advised that a walk up a slope and some steps must be undertaken to reach the Wine Lodge. There are 74 steps at the Church of Our Lady.

Funchal Market is a social and commercial occasion; the market is integral to Portuguese life. As you wander around the stalls, you’ll find an infinite variety of tropical fruits, vegetables, flowers and local crafts. See one of the island’s largest inland villages, Camacha, which is the centre of the osier industry producing the well-known Madeira wickerwork. You’ll have time to browse in the showrooms and perhaps purchase a few souvenirs. Tea or coffee and a local cake will be provided during your stop in Camacha.

A visit to a leading embroidery factory in Funchal will let you see exquisite examples of the handicraft, traditional to Madeira since the last century. Crafts can be purchased and a sample of the Madeira Wine will be served. A brief stop will be made at a local wine lodge for another opportunity to taste the famous wine.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. All stops on this tour will involve some walking and steps. The market and wine lodge are situated in Funchal. You are advised that a walk up a slope and some steps are required to be negotiated to reach the wine lodge.

The route takes you on tracks that meander through the mountains, across small rivers and along valleys providing incredible views. You’ll be presented with an excellent opportunity to see the native flora of the island, the ‘Laurissilva’. The route the jeeps take is subject to weather conditions across the island, and your driver will give you a detailed itinerary.

A short break will be made during the tour for you to enjoy a refreshing coffee, tea or soft drink.

All you need to bring is a spirit of adventure and a desire to have the time of your life!

Essential information

This excursion will operate by jeep. This tour is not suitable for those with injuries or conditions, which may be affected by the bumpy ride. Pregnant women and children may not participate. Each vehicle is equipped with seat belts, which must be worn. Because of the nature of this tour, casual clothing should be worn and it is advisable to take a sweater or light jacket, as it can be cooler in the mountains.

Enjoy unsurpassed scenery as you leave Funchal via Sao Martinho and into the Socorrido Ravine. Travelling to the north west, you’ll soon arrive at Pico dos Barcelos. After admiring the amazing views of Funchal and the southern coast, continue along a winding road to Eira do Serrado. A short ascent will lead you to Pico do Serrado, where a brief photo stop will be made. There are superb views of Madeira’s highest peaks and the Curral das Freiras village below, a hamlet so remote the Santa Clara Convent nuns used it as an escape from the pirate raids of the 16th century.

At a leading hotel in Eira do Serrado relax and enjoy tea or coffee, sandwiches, biscuits, scones with strawberry jam and chantilly cream, before moving on to the viewpoint at Terreiro da Luta.

On the return journey, you’ll pass through the picturesque and historic small village of Monte, which is perched up in the hills overlooking Funchal.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by coach. There are some cobblestones and steps at the viewpoints, though much of the view can also be seen from the coach. This excursion involves traveling around hairpin bends with steep slopes, which may affect those who suffer from vertigo.

Enjoy the peace and tranquillity of your surroundings as you walk through cool green tree-lined tunnels, discovering exotic flowers and plants along the way.

Madeira possesses a unique irrigation system that enables the rain from the north of the island to be distributed to the dry, sunny south. Rainfall is fed into the network of levadas that ring the island. A network of footpaths runs alongside these levadas, reaching into remote parts, and so this is the best way to see the interior of the island.

The walk will commence from Vale Paraiso. A gentle stroll, mostly on level ground, leads to Camacha, where a stop will be made for refreshments before completing the walk to Rochao.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. Layered clothing, rainwear, a hat, sun lotion and comfortable, non-slip shoes are recommended. The duration of the walk is approximately 2 hours, over rough and uneven ground. In the interests of safety, this excursion may be cancelled due to adverse weather conditions or changes of status in the Levada or paths used.

From Nazare Viewpoint, enjoy a panorama of the city of Funchal, including the bay, harbour, and the surrounding hills. Then it’s time to let the fun begin as it’s ‘all aboard’ the ‘Santa Maria’ a life size replica of Christopher Columbus’s flagship.

The ship was built by Robert Wijntje, a native Dutchman, and as no original plans of the ‘Santa Maria’ existed, Robert was forced to rely on books and pictures to try to build his replica as close to the original as possible. He could never have imagined the interest his project would attract; for when the ‘Santa Maria’ sailed into Lisbon to represent ‘Madeira Wine’ in the ‘Expo 98’, she received 97,016 visitors in just 25 days.

At 22 metres long, with 3 masts, (the tallest of which is 16 metres high), and built entirely of mahogany it is no wonder she is the most photographed boat in Madeira.

You’ll feel as if you have stepped back in time to the 15th Century, as the crew dressed as pirates perform what would have been their daily routine. Take in the breathtaking views over the sea and the island of Madeira as you enjoy refreshments of honey cake and Madeira wine.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by coach and boat. This tour is non-exclusive to P&O Cruises and may be cancelled in poor weather conditions. There are approximately 10 steps to board the boat. Before you book this excursion, you must refer to the ‘Beach / Water Related’ paragraphs under the Guide to Symbols in this brochure.

Your scenic extravaganza starts off along the rugged west coast road and through the picturesque fishing village of Camara de Lobos, once painted by Sir Winston Churchill. The beauty of Funchal is best admired from the Pico da Torre viewpoint.

Driving through eucalyptus forests, you’ll reach Cabo Girao. From a superb viewpoint, see the second highest sea cliff in the world. From here, you can also see mountain slopes that have been carved into terraces.

At Pico dos Barcelos the true beauty of the island is revealed. See Funchal in the distance and the surrounding villages scattered on green slopes.

An essential part of any visit to Madeira is experiencing its well-known wine. Enjoy sampling several different types of Madeira wine and take the opportunity to purchase a bottle to take home with you.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by coach. As coaches are not permitted to park outside the wine lodge, you are advised that a walk up a slope and some steps will be necessary. There are some cobblestones and steps at the viewpoints. This excursion involves traveling around hairpin bends with steep slopes, which may affect those who suffer from vertigo.

Before visiting the Hotel, you’ll be taken to the viewpoint of Pico dos Barcelos for a magnificent view over Funchal.

Built in the last century, Reid’s Palace has always had a special place in the history of Madeira. Located on the outskirts of Funchal, perched on a cliff top headland overlooking the bay, Reid’s is set in 10 acres of lush semi tropical gardens, where hanging vines jostle for room with stunning displays of geraniums, hibiscus and salvias.

Upon arrival, you will be taken on a short walk through the Hotel gardens before tea is served, giving you an opportunity to relax and enjoy the unique atmosphere. The menu includes tea, scones and cakes.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by coach. The ground at the viewpoint is flat and cobbled, though the walk in the Hotel garden is over uneven ground with approximately 20 steps. There is a strict dress code at Reid’s. Jeans, t-shirts, shorts, sports shoes or sandals are not permitted. Flat walking shoes are recommended. Tea will be served in a separate, private dining area.