A Trans-Atlantic Cruise Port Dream

When you embark on a Madeira cruise it will become clear why this destination is known as the Pearl of the Atlantic - it is simply ‘iridescent’, awash with colour from a breathtaking display of sub-tropical plants and flowers, sky, sea and mountains.

Large cruise ships now dock on the Molhe da Pontinha which juts out into the Funchal’s impressive bay for over half a mile.

Funchal is such an easy town when it comes to 'doing your own thing'. Cruise visitors here will discover that the market town is easily walkable although, the further inland you explore, the steeper and narrower some of the streets become. Locally made wicker furniture, lacework and tapestries all make good buys along with the ubiquitous Madeira wine.
Funchal is also the base for tours to the islands botanical gardens; the fishing village of Camara de Lobos where Churchill went to paint; Camacha, the wicker centre; the levada walks, part of an ancient irrigation system; and to Reids Hotel for traditional afternoon tea, making cruises to Madeira a must see.

Lucky trans-Atlantic voyagers who have Funchal as one of their stops will find cuisine that celebrates the freshest ingredients, a population that is joyous and gracious, activities that run the gamut from vigorous hiking to placid contemplation of nature, and great shopping opportunities for locally made crafts and embroidery.