Madeira Cruises

Uncover the Allure of Madeira on Your Next Cruise

Welcome to Madeira, a stunning archipelago off the northwest coast of Africa known for its dramatic landscapes, lush botanical gardens, and delightful wine. Often referred to as the “Pearl of the Atlantic,” Madeira is not only a feast for the eyes but also a haven for those seeking adventure and relaxation. Fun fact: Madeira's mild climate allows it to be dubbed as a year-round destination, making it a perfect spot for cruising at any time! Opting for a cruise to Madeira provides an incredible opportunity to immerse yourself in its natural beauty and welcoming culture while enjoying exceptional onboard amenities.

Top Major Cruise Lines to Madeira

• MSC Cruises: With a fleet size of 24, MSC Cruises features 9 ships—including MSC Lirica and MSC Magnifica—that offer itineraries to Madeira. Known for their family-friendly atmosphere and a wide range of entertainment options, MSC Cruises provides a delightful mix of relaxation and adventure onboard. Most departures typically occur from key international ports such as Barcelona or Southampton, creating convenient access to the delights of Madeira.
• P&O Cruises: Operating a fleet of 7 ships, P&O Cruises has 6 vessels—including Britannia and Azura—offering itineraries that include Madeira. P&O is well-known for its welcoming atmosphere, fantastic onboard experiences, and diverse dining options, ensuring that every guest feels at home. Departures usually happen from major international ports such as Southampton, facilitating a smooth journey to this captivating destination.
• Cunard: With a fleet of 4 luxury ships, Cunard has 3 vessels—Queen Mary 2, Queen Elizabeth, and Queen Victoria—offering itineraries to Madeira. Renowned for their elegant atmosphere and classic cruising experience, Cunard provides guests with sophistication and outstanding service that make for a memorable journey. Most departures occur from key international ports like Southampton, ensuring easy access to Madeira's stunning beauty.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: Featuring a total fleet size of 21, Norwegian has 9 ships—including Norwegian Getaway and Norwegian Jade—offering itineraries that include Madeira. Known for its freestyle cruising concept, Norwegian allows guests the flexibility to dine and explore at their own pace, ensuring a relaxed onboard experience. Departures typically take place from bustling international ports like Barcelona or Lisbon, making your journey to Madeira effortless.
• Celebrity Cruises: With a fleet size of 15, Celebrity Cruises features 5 ships—including Celebrity Edge and Celebrity Apex—that include Madeira in their itineraries. Known for their modern luxury and high-quality service, Celebrity Cruises provides guests with a mix of relaxation and engagement onboard. Most departures generally occur from major international ports like Barcelona or Lisbon, providing seamless access to the enchanting landscapes of Madeira.

Top Luxury and Small Ship Cruise Lines to Madeira

• Oceania Cruises: Comprising a fleet of 8 ships, Oceania has 5 vessels—Marina, Sirena, Regatta, Riviera, and Nautica—offering itineraries to Madeira. Renowned for their culinary excellence and destination-rich experiences, Oceania enables guests to immerse themselves in local culture. Most departures from international ports usually occur from Barcelona or Miami, making the journey to Madeira both delightful and convenient.
• Silversea: With a fleet size of 12, Silversea includes 7 ships—Silver Spirit, Silver Dawn, and Silver Muse—that often cruise to Madeira. Silversea is known for ultra-luxurious experiences and personalised service, ensuring each guest feels like royalty during their journey. Departures typically occur from sophisticated international ports such as Lisbon or Bridgetown, adding an extra layer of elegance to your travel experience.
• Viking Ocean Cruises: Featuring a fleet of 11, Viking has 1 ship—Viking Sea—that includes itineraries to Madeira. Renowned for their immersive cultural experiences and onboard enrichment opportunities, Viking's journeys allow guests to truly connect with local heritage and traditions. Departures mainly occur from key international ports like Copenhagen or Barcelona, facilitating smooth travel to the stunning Madeira landscapes.
• Explora Journeys: Operating a fleet of 2 ships, Explora has 1 vessel—EXPLORA I—offering itineraries to Madeira. Known for their focus on a luxurious, wellness-oriented experience, Explora ensures that every guest enjoys tranquillity and relaxation onboard. Departures generally happen from international ports like Barcelona or Miami, making for an effortless passage to Madeira's breathtaking views.
• Azamara Cruises: With a fleet of 4, Azamara features 1 ship—Azamara Journey—that offers itineraries that embrace Madeira. Azamara is celebrated for their immersive experiences and unique shore excursions, allowing guests to engage deeply with the local culture. Departures typically happen from international ports such as Lisbon, giving cruisers easy access to the wonders of Madeira.

Must-Visit Harbours in Madeira

• Funchal: The capital city of Madeira, Funchal is a picturesque port that welcomes cruise passengers with its stunning coastal views and vibrant flora. Visitors can explore the stunning flower market, take a scenic cable car ride to Monte, or visit the famous Botanical Garden. Don’t forget to indulge in the local delicacy, espada com banana (scabbard fish with banana), while soaking up the charming atmosphere!
• Porto Santo: Known for its gorgeous sandy beaches, Porto Santo is a great spot for relaxation and water-based activities. Cruise passengers can spend a leisurely day on the beach, swim in the crystal-clear waters, or explore the beautiful landscapes on a hiking trail. The local cuisine, featuring fresh seafood and traditional dishes, is an absolute must-try during your visit here!

Top Harbours Typically Visited by Cruises Going to Madeira

• Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain: A bustling port in the Canary Islands, Santa Cruz serves as an excellent stop before or after heading to Madeira. While you're in town, spend time exploring the historic Plaza de España, visit the beautiful Auditorio de Tenerife, or simply relax on the local beaches while enjoying tapas and sangria.
• Southampton, England: Known as a major cruise port, Southampton is an ideal starting point for cruises to Madeira. Guests can visit the city’s maritime history at the SeaCity Museum, stroll through the parks, or discover the charming shopping areas before setting sail on their Madeira adventure!

Best Times to Cruise to Madeira

The best times to cruise to Madeira are usually between April and October, when temperatures range from 18°C to 26°C, providing delightful weather for exploring gardens, enjoying beaches, and hiking its scenic trails. Consider visiting during the winter months of November and December, when temperatures drop to around 14°C to 20°C, allowing for a cooler yet milder atmosphere away from the summer crowds.

Cost of Cruising to Madeira

A typical one-week cruise to Madeira starts around $1,600, while a two-week cruise can cost approximately $3,500. For those interested in luxury options, prices typically start around $5,500 for a week-long cruise. Dining in Madeira can be relatively affordable, with meal prices generally ranging from $15 to $35. Drinks typically cost about $4 to $10, allowing you to enjoy local wines and refreshment with ease!

Alternative Regions Worth Considering for Your Next Cruise

If Madeira has sparked your interest, consider these alternative regions for your next exciting cruise adventure:

• Canary Islands: Known for their year-round pleasant climate, stunning beaches, and rich Canary culture, the Canary Islands offer a delightful escape for sun-seekers and explorers alike.
• Algarve, Portugal: With its golden beaches, dramatic cliffs, and charming towns, the Algarve is a fantastic destination for those wanting to soak up the sun while indulging in delicious seafood.
• Azores: These stunning volcanic islands feature breathtaking landscapes, lush greenery, and picturesque towns, making them a perfect getaway for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
• Balkans: Rich in history and culture, the Balkan region invites exploration of stunning coastal cities like Dubrovnik and Split, where breathtaking architecture meets vibrant local life.
• Western Mediterranean: Offering charming coastal towns and vibrant culture, the Western Mediterranean is ideal for those looking for a mix of leisurely exploration and exciting city life.

Are you ready to set sail for the stunning landscapes and vibrant culture of Madeira? Book your cruise with Cruise1st today, and embark on a journey filled with unforgettable experiences on this incredible destination!