Funchal Cruises
Famous for its outstanding natural beauty, the Atlantic island of Madeira is known as the ‘floating garden’, with its array of subtropical flowers and plants – grown from the bulbs and seeds of the British merchants who came to the island after making their fortune from selling Madeiran wine. Produced since the 17th century, Madeira Wine’s historical and maritime links make for fascinating reading, of course accompanied by a glass or two of the ‘liquid history’, as described by Winston Churchill.
Top Experiences
Cabo Girão
Cabo Girão is one of the highest sea cliffs in the world, standing at a height of 580 metres above sea level. A suspended glass-floored viewing platform named the Skywalk juts out over the cliffs, affording magnificent views from an exhilarating perspective.
Botanical Gardens
Madeira is renowned for its gardens, which thrive thanks to a balmy climate. Monte Palace Tropical Garden is considered the most beautiful on the island. It’s home to a huge variety of exotic plants, including one of the world’s largest collections of cycads.
Madeiran wine
Madeira has a long winemaking history dating back to the Age of Exploration. Fortified wines are produced in a variety of styles ranging from dry wines – which can be enjoyed on their own as an aperitif – to sweet wines, often paired with desserts.
Cruises to Funchal
Volcanic Islands & Hidden Gems of Portugal • T2416
- Discover the Sete Cidades crater lakes from Ponta Delgada
- Search for dolphins and whales from Bolette's decks with ORCA
- Embrace Portuguese traditions and savour local cuisines
Volcanic Islands of the Azores & Madeira • S2417
- View the volcanic 'Sete Cidades' crater lakes in the Azores
- Admire the blue hydrangeas in full bloom in the Azores
- Spot sperm whales and other marine life with ORCA representatives
Volcanic Islands of the Azores & Madeira • S2422
- Explore the volcanic, emerald-green islands of the Azores
- Join ORCA conservationists on Borealis' decks to spot marine life
- Taste authentic Port wine in Oporto and Madeiran wine in Funchal
Natural Wonders & Wildlife of the Azores & Madeira • T2425
- Relax in the soothing Hot Springs in the Furnas Valley
- Spot marine life from the decks of Bolette with ORCA conservationists
- View the stunning Crater Lakes of Sete Cidades
Winter Warmth in the Canaries • S2426
- Visit the UNESCO-listed Laurisilva Forest in Madeira
- Tour a botanical garden with a local orchid expert
- Experience the beauty of La Gomera's Garajonay National Park
Canary Islands Christmas & Funchal New Year • S2428
- Visit UNESCO-listed Risco Caído archaeological site in Gran Canaria
- Celebrate Christmas Day festivities on board Borealis
- See in the New Year with the annual fireworks display in Madeira
Canary Islands Christmas & Lisbon New Year • T2429
- Celebrate Christmas Day on board en route to Gran Canaria
- Discover volcanic landscapes in Tenerife, La Palma and Lanzarote
- Celebrate the arrival of 2025 with New Year's Eve fireworks
A Voyage of Exploration Around the World - Liverpool • T250106
- Witness the mysterious Maoi statues on Easter Island
- Learn about the inspirational life of Nelson Mandela
- See the iconic Sydney skyline from Bolette's decks
A Voyage of Exploration Around the World • T2502
- Explore the untouched landscapes of Robinson Crusoe Island
- See the iconic Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge
- Go in search of the Big Five in Africa