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
Islands of the Azores, Crossing the Path of the Solar Eclipse • T2406
- Explore volcanic sites in the Azores
- Look for whales and dolphins from Bolette with ORCA
- Cross the path of the fascinating Solar Eclipse
Natural Wonders & Wildlife of the Azores & Madeira • T2408
- Marvel at the wonders of beautiful Portuguese islands
- Explore volcanic sites in the Azores
- Go in search of whales with ORCA on Bolette
Springtime Canary Islands and Portugal • L2409
- Capture views of Cabo Girão, one of Europe's highest sea cliffs
- Explore volcanic Canarian landscapes and Madeiran gardens
- Enjoy visits to the Portuguese cities of Oporto and Lisbon
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
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
- Discover more of Portugal's maritime history in Lisbon
- 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 • S2420
- Delve into the Age of Discovery in UNESCO-listed Angra do Heroísmo
- Explore the walking trails and botanical gardens in Madeira
- Spot a variety of marine life from Borealis with wildlife charity ORCA
Volcanic Islands of the Azores & Madeira • S2422
- Explore Portugal's maritime history and floral gardens
- Join ORCA conservationists on Borealis' decks to spot marine life
- Visit the levada walking trails in Madeira