Arrive Funchal 8am - Depart 6pm
FUNCHAL largest city and chief port of Madeira, is a popular winter resort for British and Northern European vacationers. It has long been noted for its fine embroidery, excellent wines, and picturesque atmosphere. The island of Madeira, about 450 miles west of the Moroccan coast, has been Portuguese since its discovery by that seafaring nation in the year 1419.
Discovered in the 14th Century on those early great voyages of discovery, Madeira, in the path of the Gulf Stream nestling in the Atlantic Ocean, is indeed well blessed. Two Portuguese explorers Joao Gonsalves Zarco and Tristao Vaz Teixera swept off course in a violent storm found haven on an island which they called Porto Santo.
The island of Madeira - the neighbour of Porto Santo was donated to the two men, and, followed by other Portuguese settlers they started developing this uninhabited land. Originally covered by woods the island took the name of Madeira - the island of wood. The early Portuguese settlers were joined by Dutch, Spanish, Italians, Jews and Moors driven from Spain.
Negro slaves were brought in to work the sugar plantations and today Madeira, with a dense population, is for the traveller a haven of peace with a charm and beauty difficult to find in this modern age.
A moment to remember as our ship noses her way into the Bay of Funchal is the magnificent view. The town of Funchal nestling along the shore of the bay and spreading upward to the slopes of the surrounding mountains, the red roofs and white walls of the villas and houses, the luxuriant foliage and the mountains rearing their heads to the clouds is a picture that is difficult to forget.
The British were the first to appreciate Madeira for its ideal climate, its peace, tranquility and “away from it all” situation. Previously haunted only by those lucky enough to spare time for an ocean voyage, Madeira with the recent opening of her airport is now within easy reach in this 20th Century jet age.
The beauty of Madeira has inspired poets to describe her as the “pearl of the Atlantic”, the “dream island”, the “island of unsurpassed beauty” - terms which aptly and so truly describe this sub-tropical artists’ delight.
The wine of Madeira is a by-word in any land. Even Shakespeare in Henry IV has Pointz tell Falstaff: “Thou Boldest thy soul on Good Friday last for a cup of Madeira and a cold capon leg.”
With her mild, warm climate, picturesque landscape-and friendly welcoming people, Madeira must be for many-the perfect port of call.
Commanding a magnificent view of Funchal and the bay from almost 3,000 feet. Ride down to the heart of Funchal in a basket-sled drawn by two island runners. Through flower decked cobbled mountain roads. This novel experience should be a “must” for everyone.
A drive of 13 miles takes you to Cabo Girao commanding from 2,000 feet views of both island and sea.
A pleasant short drive to this spot affords another magnificent panorama; to the east Funchal, to the south Sao Martinho, to the west Camara de Lobos, to the north, the mountains. Spare time for the town of Funchal itself, its clean flowered streets, its ox sleds - fine shops - bodegas and general quaintness.
A charming unspoiled fishing village just over 6 miles away from Funchal, surrounded by fine vineyards. Here we see a “draco” - a tree only found in the Canaries and Madeira. A picturesque spot which attracts many painters including the late Sir Winston Churchill.
With Luncheon
Membership limited - Fare $14
Drive through the principal streets of Funchal, stopping to visit a leading winery. Continue to the top of the mountain, Terreiro da Lucta, for a marvellous view of the city and harbour. Descend the mountain by basket sled guided by runners, a ride that is unique in all the World.
Luncheon will be served at famous Reid's Hotel in Funchal. In the afternoon there will be time for shopping in the linen and souvenir stores before rejoining the Caronia.
Membership strictly limited - Fare $16
This Tour is especially recommended to those who have been to Madeira before and includes an extensive island drive. After visiting one of the leading wineries, drive along the East Coast through Santa Cruz and Machico; continuing across the mountains to Portela for a fine view of the North Coast.
Luncheon will be served at the charming restaurant Casa de Cha do Fayal in the town of Sao Roque do Fayal.
In the afternoon, motor to Ribeiro Frio and on to the top of Terreiro da Lucta overlooking Funchal.
Descend the mountain by basket sled. There will be some time for shopping in Funchal before returning to the Caronia.
Fare $8
Drive through the principal streets of Funchal, stopping to visit a leading winery. Continue to the top of the mountain, Terreiro da Lucta, for a marvellous view of the city and harbour.
Descend the mountain by basket sled guided by runners, a ride unique in all the World. Back in Funchal there will be time for shopping in the linen and souvenir stores before returning to the ship for dinner on board.
At Sea
Steaming Funchal to Gibraltar 611 miles
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Page last updated on Sun, 25 May 2025
