Madeira Cruises

Explore the Beauty of Madeira with CruiseAway

Welcome to **Madeira**, a stunning archipelago renowned for its dramatic landscapes, fragrant gardens, and warm climate. Visiting Madeira by cruise offers a unique opportunity to experience its breathtaking scenery and rich culture without the hassle of constant packing and unpacking. From the vibrant capital of **Funchal**, with its lively markets and beautiful botanical gardens, to the UNESCO-listed Laurisilva forest, there’s no shortage of highlights to discover. Fun fact: Madeira is often referred to as the “Pearl of the Atlantic” and is famous for its fortified wine enjoyed by many across the globe! A cruise to this enchanting destination opens the door to unforgettable experiences that blend relaxation and adventure effortlessly.

Must-Visit Harbours in Madeira

When cruising to **Madeira**, you’ll have the opportunity to dock at several remarkable harbours. Here are five top places to explore:

• Funchal, Madeira: The vibrant capital and the primary port, Funchal, is filled with attractions. When you dock, visit the **Madeira Botanical Garden** for stunning views and a diverse collection of plants. Enjoy the local market, **Mercado dos Lavradores**, where you can sample tropical fruits and traditional food. Insider tip: Treat yourself to a traditional **Espetada**, skewered beef seasoned with garlic and bay leaves—a true local delicacy!
• Porto Moniz, Madeira: Famous for its natural volcanic swimming pools, Porto Moniz is perfect for a relaxing day by the sea. Spend your time swimming, sunbathing, or taking in the fantastic views of the rough Atlantic waves crashing against the rocks. An insider tip: If the weather permits, head to nearby **Cabo Girão**, one of the highest sea cliffs in Europe, for breathtaking panoramic views!
• Machico, Madeira: A charming town with a rich history, Machico boasts a beautiful beach and historical landmarks. Don’t miss the **Church of Our Lady of the Conception**, which has significance dating back to the early 15th century. Take a stroll along the beach promenade and enjoy the local restaurants serving delicious seafood dishes. Pro tip: Try the local **banana cake**—a sweet treat pulsing with regional flavours!
• Calheta, Madeira: Known for its lovely sandy beach and vibrant marina area, Calheta is a fantastic stop to unwind. Visit the local **Calheta Beach**, ideal for swimming, or head to the **Casa das Mudas** for contemporary art exhibitions. Insider note: Stop by one of the sugar cane rum distilleries to taste the famous **Aguardente**, a traditional local spirit!
• Camara de Lobos, Madeira: This picturesque fishing village offers charming waterfront views and colourful boats. It’s a great place to enjoy some spectacular views of the cliffs while sipping on a **poncha**, Madeira’s signature drink made from sugar cane, fruit juice, and brandy. An insider tip: Take a short walk to **Cliff of Cabo Girao** for some stunning cliffside perspectives.

Best Times to Cruise Madeira

The best time to visit **Madeira** is from **April to June** and **September to October**, when temperatures are mild, typically ranging between **18°C and 25°C**. These shoulder seasons offer pleasant weather for exploring the island’s beauty without the crowding that peaks in summer. June and September are especially lovely months, allowing you to enjoy lush greenery and floral blooms. While summer temperatures can climb to around **30°C**, cruising in the winter months, from **December to February**, can be cooler, averaging **15°C to 20°C**, but it can also be a beautiful time to visit if you want to escape the heat back home.

Costs of Cruising to Madeira

Curious about costs? A standard **1-week cruise** to **Madeira** typically ranges from **$2,000 to $3,500** for a cabin, while a **2-week cruise** may cost between **$3,500 and $6,500**. For those seeking a touch of luxury, prices for an upscale cruise start at around **$4,500** for one week. The best time to find deals and lower prices is during the shoulder seasons, whereas summer tends to see higher rates due to increased demand. Dining out on Madeira will generally cost between **$15 to $35** per meal depending on the restaurant, offering plenty of options for every budget!

Major Cruise Lines Offering Madeira Experiences

• MSC Cruises: With a fleet of **23 ships**, **nine** sail to Madeira, including the popular **MSC Opera** and **MSC Poesia**. Cruises often depart from **Madeira (Funchal)** or **Miami**, offering great choices. MSC is known for its lively family-friendly atmosphere, diverse onboard activities, and plenty of dining options inspired by Mediterranean flavours.
• P&O Cruises: Featuring a fleet size of **seven ships**, **six** explore Madeira, notably **Azura** and **Ventura**. Departures often occur from **Santa Cruz de Tenerife** or **Southampton**. P&O Cruises stands out for its British hospitality and offers a traditional cruise experience that caters to a wide range of guests.
• Cunard: The esteemed **Cunard Line** operates **four ships**, with **three** frequently sailing to Madeira, including **Queen Anne** and **Queen Victoria**. Departures usually take place from **Southampton** or **Hamburg**. Cunard is recognised for its elegance and luxurious onboard experiences, featuring grand dining venues and refined afternoon teas.
• Princess Cruises: This cruise line operates **17 ships**, with **seven** regularly visiting Madeira, such as **Island Princess** and **Sky Princess**. Common departure ports include **Perth (Fremantle)** and **Southampton**. Princess Cruises excels at providing excellent service, diverse dining options, and innovative shore excursions tailored to the region’s offerings and guests’ preferences.
• Holland America Line: With **11 ships** in its fleet, **three** venture to Madeira, primarily the **Nieuw Statendam** and **Oosterdam**. They generally depart from **Rotterdam** or **Fort Lauderdale**, focusing on immersive travel experiences with onboard enrichment programs aimed at enhancing cultural exploration.

Luxury and Small Ship Options

• Oceania Cruises: Featuring **eight ships**, **four** travel to Madeira, including **Marina** and **Sirena**. Departing often from **Lisbon** or **Barcelona**, they’re celebrated for their culinary experiences onboard, focusing on gourmet dining and locally inspired menus.
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises: Operating **six ships**, with **five** visiting Madeira, such as **Seven Seas Grandeur** and **Seven Seas Mariner**. Departures often occur from **Barcelona** or **Miami**. This luxury cruise line is known for its all-inclusive options, offering penthouses, gourmet meals, and complimentary excursions, ensuring a luxurious voyage.
• Explora Journeys: With **two ships** in its fleet, both are dedicated to exploring Madeira—**EXPLORA I** and **EXPLORA II**. Departing from **Barcelona** or **Miami**, they focus on sustainable travel while providing immersive experiences in every port visited.
• Silversea: Comprising **13 ships**, **four** offer itineraries to Madeira, such as **Silver Dawn** and **Silver Ray**. They primarily depart from **Lisbon** or **Fort Lauderdale**, and they’re known for their luxurious all-suite accommodations and fine dining experiences with a commitment to exemplary service.
• Seabourn: With **six ships**, **two** visit Madeira—**Seabourn Ovation** and **Seabourn Sojourn**. Departing often from **Las Palmas** or **Bridgetown**, they promise an intimate and luxurious atmosphere with a focus on personalised service, fine dining, and unique shore excursions for an unmatched experience.

Explore Alternative Regions

If your heart is set on **Madeira** but you’re eager for other stunning destinations, consider these alternatives:

• Canary Islands: Just a short distance away, these islands boast beautiful beaches, a warm climate, and unique volcanic landscapes, making them a perfect mix of relaxation and exploration.
• Southern Europe: Rich in history and culture, Southern Europe offers vibrant cities, stunning coastlines, and endless culinary delights, perfect for any lover of travel.
• Western Mediterranean: Known for its picturesque towns and scenic coastlines, this region provides a delightful blend of Italian, Spanish, and French culture.
• Caribbean: A tropical escape offering white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and a laid-back vibe, perfect for beach lovers and those seeking sunshine.
• Africa: Experience a unique cultural mix and breathtaking landscapes, from bustling cities to stunning deserts; Africa is a fascinating option for any adventurous cruiser.

So why wait? Starting your journey to the enchanting **Madeira** with **CruiseAway** is just a click away. Prepare for stunning sights, delicious cuisine, and an unforgettable cruise experience!