Madeira Cruises

Madeira, known as the “Pearl of the Atlantic,” is a stunning archipelago located off the northwest coast of Africa. This enchanting island is famous for its lush landscapes, fragrant flowers, and inviting subtropical climate, making it an ideal destination for cruisers. With breathtaking views of the rugged coastline, dramatic cliffs, and quaint villages, every corner of Madeira offers a unique experience. Fun fact: Madeira is renowned for its Madeira wine, a fortified wine that has been produced on the island for over 500 years! Cruising to Madeira allows you to soak in the island’s rich culture, stunning scenery, and world-class hospitality all in one trip.

Major Cruise Lines Visiting Madeira

• MSC Cruises includes a fleet of 23 ships, with 8 dedicated to itineraries featuring Madeira. The MSC Opera and MSC Poesia are noteworthy vessels that offer a splendid mix of comfort and entertainment. The MSC Opera is particularly favoured for its wide variety of dining options and family-friendly facilities. Most cruises depart from Santa Cruz de Tenerife or Miami, providing plenty of opportunities to discover Madeira’s charm.
• P&O Cruises operates a fleet of 7 ships, with 6 focusing on Madeira itineraries. The Azura and Ventura are popular choices, known for their relaxed ambiance and multiple dining venues. Guests can enjoy entertainment from West End-style shows to movie nights under the stars. These cruises typically depart from Santa Cruz de Tenerife or Southampton, ensuring ease of access to embark on your adventure.
• Cunard has a fleet of 4 ships, with 3 offering itineraries that include Madeira. The Queen Anne and Queen Victoria are known for their luxurious ocean liners, providing world-class service and elegant dining experiences. Cunard is particularly celebrated for its afternoon tea experience, a delightful way to unwind. Most cruises depart from Southampton or Hamburg, allowing for convenient connections to Madeira.
• Princess Cruises operates 17 ships, with 7 cruising to Madeira. The Island Princess and Sky Princess stand out for their array of onboard activities, including theatre productions and culinary classes. The Island Princess features an adults-only sanctuary for those seeking some tranquillity. Most cruises start from Southampton or Fort Lauderdale, giving you multiple options for your journey.
• Holland America Line features 11 ships, of which 4 visit Madeira. The Nieuw Statendam and Oosterdam provide an exceptional cruising experience focused on enrichment and immersive cultural experiences. These ships often depart from Fort Lauderdale or London (Dover), making it convenient for a memorable passage to the island.

Top Luxury and Small Ship Options

• Oceania Cruises comprises a fleet of 8 ships, with 4 sailing to Madeira. The Regatta and Insignia are revered for their refined atmosphere and outstanding culinary options, featuring gourmet dining that showcases regional flavours. Most cruises set sail from Lisbon or Barcelona, ensuring a lovely journey to the breathtaking landscapes of Madeira.
• Explora Journeys operates 2 ships, with both offering itineraries to Madeira. The EXPLORA I is celebrated for its luxurious experiences and wellness-focused offerings. Departures typically occur from Barcelona or Miami, allowing for a high-end start to your cruise adventure.
• Seabourn features a luxury fleet of 5 ships, with 2 dedicated to Madeira itineraries. The Seabourn Ovation and Seabourn Sojourn provide an intimate cruising experience with exceptional service and all-inclusive amenities. These ships often depart from Barcelona or Las Palmas, promising an elegant voyage to the stunning island.
• Fred Olsen includes a small fleet of 3 ships, with 3 offering itineraries to Madeira. The Borealis and Bolette provide a charming environment for cruisers who appreciate a traditional cruising experience. Departures generally take place from Southampton or Liverpool, making access easy for UK travellers.
• Azamara Cruises has a fleet of 4 ships, with all offering itineraries to Madeira. The Azamara Pursuit and Azamara Journey offer immersive experiences focused on culture and nightlife in ports. Departures frequently occur from Lisbon or Gran Canaria, facilitating seamless transition into your adventure on this beautiful island.

Top Harbours to Explore in Madeira

• Funchal – The capital of Madeira is a vibrant city filled with beautiful gardens, historic sites, and lively markets. Explore the Mercado dos Lavradores to sample local produce and Madeira wine, or take a cable car up to Monte for stunning views over the city. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Jardim Botânico to marvel at the rich biodiversity of the island.
• Santa Cruz – This quaint town offers a charming promenade and beautiful natural swimming pools formed by volcanic rock. Stroll along the beach or visit the Church of Santa Cruz for a glimpse of local architecture. If you’re up for it, consider taking a swim in the refreshing waters at the nearby natural pools.
• Camara de Lobos – Famous for its colourful fishing boats and picturesque bay, this charming fishing village is ideal for a leisurely stroll. Sample the local poncha, a traditional alcoholic beverage made with distilled sugar cane, and enjoy spectacular views from the cliffs above the village.
• Porto Moniz – Known for its volcanic natural swimming pools, Porto Moniz is perfect for a day of relaxation. Explore the stunning coastal views, hike along cliffside paths, or enjoy a fresh seafood meal at one of the local restaurants. Be prepared for a magnificent experience as you immerse yourself in the beauty of the landscape.
• Ponta de São Lourenço – This remarkable peninsula features breathtaking hiking trails and dramatic cliffs with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. Known for its unique geological formations and a variety of delicious local cuisine at small eateries, this is an excellent place for nature lovers and those seeking adventure to explore.

When to Cruise to Madeira

Madeira enjoys a mild climate year-round, making it an attractive destination for cruising at any time. From January to March, temperatures typically range from 13°C to 20°C, perfect for pleasant exploration without excessive heat. Spring (April to June) brings beautiful blooming gardens and temperatures from 15°C to 25°C, ideal for outdoor activities. Summer (July to September) can be pleasantly warm, from 20°C to 30°C, perfect for enjoying beach activities and coastal exploration. As autumn arrives from October to December, temperatures range from 12°C to 22°C, making it a perfect time to experience the quieter side of the island as well.

Costs of Cruising to Madeira

A one-week cruise to Madeira generally costs between £800 and £1,500, depending on the cruising line and type of accommodations. Luxury cruises typically start around £3,000 and can increase based on available amenities. If you’re considering a two-week cruise, anticipate costs to double. When on the island, budget around £10 to £25 for meals at local restaurants, whilst beverages can run from £3 to £10, allowing you to indulge in local flavours throughout your trip.

With its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural experiences, Madeira is an unforgettable destination waiting to be explored. Now is the perfect time to book your cruise holiday via Cruise1st and set sail towards the enchanting charm of this beautiful island!