Funchal, Madeira - Canary Island & Atlantic Isle Cruises

A rack and pinion railway once took passengers up the hillside from Funchal and the return to the coast was by toboggan. The railway closed in 1939, but an Austrian company has constructed a cable car for the trip up to Monte, noted for its many fine properties and gardens. The Funchal station is situated in the old part of town, and the journey from Funchal to Monte takes 15 minutes. (The cable car access is similar to a ski lift. The car does not stop for boarding; it just slows in motion).

Experience the ancient wicker-sled transport on a thrilling 10 minute toboggan ride. The drivers run alongside the toboggans, pushing and steering and using their rubber-soled boots as brakes.

Your tour continues by coach to Pico Dos Barcelos, a flower-decked belvedere where you will have wonderful views towards the east of the island.

Making your way back to Funchal, you will make a stop at the wine lodge where you can sample the different types of Madeira wine, ranging from the dry Sercial to sweet Malmsey.


This excursion will operate by coach, cable car, toboggan. Infants aged 3 years and younger are not permitted to participate in this tour due to restrictions on the Toboggan. The toboggan is a popular tourist attraction and there may be queues before boarding. Please wear suitable clothing and footwear, and follow the instructions of the toboggan drivers once seated. Toboggans hold up to three participants (two adults and one child).

After a short coach ride to Canico you’ll be met by your driver/guide who will always drive in the first car for the whole tour.

The tour takes you through Madeiran countryside. Driving up the old forest roads from Canico, you first reach the village of Camacha where there will be a comfort stop and some free time to visit a wickerwork workshop. You then continue along the narrow roads until reaching the top of the mountain Pico do Arieiro for a short break. The drive back down the mountain to the village of Santo da Serra is through lush and spectacular countryside. Enjoy the fresh air and the joy of driving these unique cars. At the Santo da Serra Golf Course, stop for a slice of cake and a coffee before returning to Canico via the viewpoint of Portela and the village of Machico.

ACTIVITY EXCURSIONS
You and all those in your party should be aware that, in undertaking activity excursions, you will be involved in a degree of physical exertion and/or activity such as hiking, biking, snorkelling, kayaking, diving etc. By booking the excursion you confirm that you and all those in your party are in good physical and mental condition, with no history of conditions such as seizures, dizziness, fainting, heart condition, respiratory problems or back/neck problems (by way of example only). You should also ensure that no one in your party is taking medicine that carries a warning about impairment of physical or mental abilities. If you are pregnant this type of excursion may not be appropriate for you. It is your responsibility to ensure that you are fit and well enough to take part in the activities booked and you are reminded to take care for your own safety. Because of the risks associated with activity excursions, you may be asked by the excursion provider to sign a document which may affect or limit the excursion provider’s liability. Comfortable flat walking shoes are recommended.

LIABILITY
Cunard will arrange for the excursions to be performed by the relevant excursion provider. Cunard does not provide or supply the excursion services. Cunard will exercise reasonable care and skill in the selection of the excursion provider, but will not in any circumstances have a greater liability than the excursion supplier and Cunard shall not be responsible for the negligent acts/omissions of the excursion supplier. Please note that in relation to all excursions Cunard is not responsible or liable for any loss, damage, or injury sustained by you unless such loss, damage or injury arises out of a breach of legal duty of Cunard.

TRAVEL INSURANCE
Before booking any activity excursions it is essential that you ensure your travel insurance extends to cover the specified activity. It is your responsibility to obtain adequate insurance.

This excursion will operate by car. Two guests can travel in each car. Request only one ticket per car and not the number in your party. Your car and keys together with driving instructions (map and safety features) will be distributed when you meet your guide. Guests must be 18 years or older and you must bring a clean, valid driving licence with photo ID. A security deposit of 500 Euros will need to be put on a credit card in case of accidents. A full tank of gasoline is included.

The Atlantic Ocean around the Madeira Islands is an idyllic spot for marine mammals, and up to 20 species of cetaceans (whales, dolphins and porpoises) have been spotted in these waters.

A short drive takes you to Funchal Marina, where after a brief introduction you’ll board your high-speed RIB for your thrilling adventure on the water. A Marine Biologist is on hand to answer any questions you may have regarding the various types of sea mammals that visit the waters of Madeira.

Ensure to keep your eyes peeled for short-finned pilot whales, bottlenose dolphins, Atlantic spotted dolphins and common dolphins that will amaze you with their acrobatic moves. You may even be lucky enough to spot the Risso’s dolphins, beaked whales and killer whales that occasionally visit the seas of Madeira.

An experience not to be missed!


ACTIVITY EXCURSIONS
You and all those in your party should be aware that, in undertaking activity excursions, you will be involved in a degree of physical exertion and/or activity such as hiking, biking, snorkelling, kayaking, diving etc. By booking the excursion you confirm that you and all those in your party are in good physical and mental condition, with no history of conditions such as seizures, dizziness, fainting, heart condition, respiratory problems or back/neck problems (by way of example only). You should also ensure that no one in your party is taking medicine that carries a warning about impairment of physical or mental abilities. If you are pregnant this type of excursion may not be appropriate for you. It is your responsibility to ensure that you are fit and well enough to take part in the activities booked and you are reminded to take care for your own safety. Because of the risks associated with activity excursions, you may be asked by the excursion provider to sign a document which may affect or limit the excursion provider’s liability. Comfortable flat walking shoes are recommended.

BEACH/WATER RELATED EXCURSIONS
For any excursion involving water, guests are reminded to exercise particular care. Alcohol and eating a full meal should be avoided before swimming. If buoyancy aids are provided for an activity they must be worn at all times. You should bear in mind that the sea is unpredictable. Lifeguards are unlikely to be present and there may not be a flag system to indicate whether or not it is safe to go in the water. In addition, beach activities may not be supervised or accompanied and so you should take care to satisfy yourself as to the safety of the beach and/or the sea at the time of your excursion. Please exercise caution when entering the sea as the seabed and aquatic environment is capable of springing surprises and we have not inspected the beach or seabed for its safety. Children must be supervised by you at all times near water. All activities on the beach, water and in the sea are undertaken at your own risk. You’ll need to take swimwear, a towel, sunscreen and flat shoes that can be worn in the water.

LIABILITY
Cunard will arrange for the excursions to be performed by the relevant excursion provider. Cunard does not provide or supply the excursion services. Cunard will exercise reasonable care and skill in the selection of the excursion provider, but will not in any circumstances have a greater liability than the excursion supplier and Cunard shall not be responsible for the negligent acts/omissions of the excursion supplier. Please note that in relation to all excursions Cunard is not responsible or liable for any loss, damage, or injury sustained by you unless such loss, damage or injury arises out of a breach of legal duty of Cunard.

TRAVEL INSURANCE
Before booking any activity excursions it is essential that you ensure your travel insurance extends to cover the specified activity. It is your responsibility to obtain adequate insurance.

This excursion will operate by coach and RIB. Children under the age of 8 may and guests with back or neck injuries, or those who are pregnant, should not participate in this tour. The sighting of whales and dolphins is not guaranteed. There is no shelter on board the RIB. Lifejackets are provided and must be worn, the ride can be bumpy and fast. Flat shoes, preferably with rubber soles, are recommended. In case of poor weather conditions this tour may be cancelled. Before you book this excursion, you must refer to the ‘Activity Excursion’ and ‘Beach / Water Related’ paragraphs under the Guide to Symbols in this brochure.

Your scenic extravaganza starts off along the rugged west coast road and through the picturesque fishing village of Camara de Lobos, once painted by Sir Winston Churchill. The beauty of Funchal is best admired from the Pico da Torre viewpoint.

Driving through eucalyptus forests, you will reach Cabo Girao. From a superb viewpoint, see the second highest sea cliff in the world. From here, you can also see mountain slopes that have been carved into terraces.

At Pico dos Barcelos the true beauty of the island is revealed. See Funchal in the distance and the surrounding villages scattered on green slopes.

An essential part of any visit to Madeira is experiencing its well-known wine. Enjoy sampling several different types of Madeira wine and take the opportunity to purchase a bottle to take home with you.


This excursion will operate by coach. As coaches are not permitted to park outside the wine lodge, you are advised that a walk up a slope and some steps will be necessary. There are some cobblestones and steps at the viewpoints. This excursion involves traveling around hairpin bends with steep slopes, which may affect those who suffer from vertigo.

En route to Reid's Hotel, you will enjoy a scenic drive to the viewpoint of Pico dos Barcelos for magnificent views over Funchal.

Built in the last century, Reid's Palace has always had a special place in the history of Madeira. Located on the outskirts of Funchal, perched on a cliff top headland overlooking the bay, Reid's is set in ten acres of lush semi tropical gardens, where hanging vines jostle for room with stunning displays of geraniums, hibiscus and salvias.

Upon arrival, you will be taken on a short walk through the Hotel gardens before tea is served, giving you an opportunity to relax and enjoy the unique atmosphere.

The menu includes tea, scones and cakes.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. The ground at the viewpoint is flat and cobbled, and the walk in the Hotel garden is over uneven ground with approximately 20 steps. There is a strict dress code at Reid's. Jeans, t-shirts, shorts, sports shoes or sandals are not permitted. Flat walking shoes are recommended. Tea will be served in a separate, private dining area.

Passing through the centre of Funchal, your journey will take you steeply out of town along a winding road from which there are spectacular views over the harbour. Drive through the village of Monte, perched in the hills overlooking Funchal, then up through eucalyptus and mimosa trees to Terreiro da Luta.

The beautiful views open out considerably on both sides until the road comes to an end at the summit of Pico do Arieiro, a vantage point at 5,937 feet, from which there are magnificent views on a clear day. The route turns inland to Ribeiro Frio, where you can visit the carefully cultivated grounds of the trout hatchery.

Descend through Faial to the village of Santana, famous for the traditional houses with thatched roofs and densely planted vineyards. Visit the vineyards and enjoy some wine tasting at Quinta do Furão, where luncheon will be served.

At São Jorge visit the Rosarium at Quinta do Arco. With more than one thousand different kinds of rose bushes, enjoy the beauty and colour of this unique garden and wine lodge.

Continue along the north-eastern coast to the village of São Vicente, where a stop will be made to allow you to explore some of the surrounding area before retuning to Funchal.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There will be some steps to negotiate on this tour. The ground is flat but cobbled at most viewpoints or stops. The journey is along winding mountain roads.

Driving east towards Camacha, admire the beautiful views over the bay of Funchal as you stop at Pináculo. Camacha is one of the largest inland villages of Madeira, and the centre of the wicker industry. At the warehouse and working showrooms, view the range of wicker work that is created, from baskets and chairs to elephants and giraffes.

From Camacha, head north to Pico de Arieiro, where, on a clear day, you can appreciate magnificent views over the north, south and centre of the island. A warm welcome awaits you at the Casa do Abrigo Restaurant at Poiso, where a traditional Madeiran luncheon will be served.

At the village of Monte, notable for its many fine properties and gardens, admire the view over Funchal. Its twin towered 18th century church is a landmark throughout the city, and is home to the statue of Our Lady of Monte, credited with being the source of many miracles.

For a true taste of Madeira, experience the exciting toboggan ride back into Funchal, ending in Livramento. The downhill ride in wicker sledges was formerly the established form of transport in Madeira, and your short ride will be something to remember. Back in Funchal, proceed to a wine lodge and complete your Madeira experience by tasting some fine Madeira wine, world famous for over 400 years.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. Infants aged 3 years and younger are not permitted to participate in this tour due to restrictions on the Toboggan. Please wear suitable clothing and footwear, and follow the instructions of the toboggan drivers once seated. The toboggan is a popular tourist attraction and there may be queues before boarding. There are 74 steps at the Church of Our Lady of Monte, (optional visit, time permitting). There is slight uphill walk and some steps to reach the wine lodge.

Funchal Market is a social and commercial occasion; the market is an integral part of Portuguese life. As you wander around the stalls, you will find an array of tropical fruits, unusual vegetables, colourful flowers and local crafts.

See one of the island's largest inland villages, Camacha, which is the centre of the osier industry producing the well-known Madeira wickerwork. You will have time to browse in the showrooms and perhaps purchase a few souvenirs. Some light refreshments will be offered during your stop in Camacha.

A visit to a leading embroidery factory in Funchal presents exquisite examples of handicrafts, which have been made following Madeira traditions since the last century. Crafts can be purchased and a sample of the Madeira Wine will be served.

A brief stop will be made at a local wine lodge for another opportunity to taste the famous wine.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. All stops on this tour will involve some walking and steps. The market and wine lodge are situated in Funchal. You are advised that a walk up a slope and some steps are required to be negotiated to reach the wine lodge.

The route takes you on tracks, which meander through the mountains, across small rivers and along valleys providing incredible views. You will be presented with an excellent opportunity to see the native flora of the island; the Laurissilva.

Embrace the thrill of your off road adventure and take in the interesting commentary from your guide as you pass by some of the islands most glorious scenery.

A short break will be made during the tour for you to enjoy some light refreshments.


ACTIVITY EXCURSIONS
You and all those in your party should be aware that, in undertaking activity excursions, you will be involved in a degree of physical exertion and/or activity such as hiking, biking, snorkelling, kayaking, diving etc. By booking the excursion you confirm that you and all those in your party are in good physical and mental condition, with no history of conditions such as seizures, dizziness, fainting, heart condition, respiratory problems or back/neck problems (by way of example only). You should also ensure that no one in your party is taking medicine that carries a warning about impairment of physical or mental abilities. If you are pregnant this type of excursion may not be appropriate for you. It is your responsibility to ensure that you are fit and well enough to take part in the activities booked and you are reminded to take care for your own safety. Because of the risks associated with activity excursions, you may be asked by the excursion provider to sign a document which may affect or limit the excursion provider’s liability. Comfortable flat walking shoes are recommended.

LIABILITY
Cunard will arrange for the excursions to be performed by the relevant excursion provider. Cunard does not provide or supply the excursion services. Cunard will exercise reasonable care and skill in the selection of the excursion provider, but will not in any circumstances have a greater liability than the excursion supplier and Cunard shall not be responsible for the negligent acts/omissions of the excursion supplier. Please note that in relation to all excursions Cunard is not responsible or liable for any loss, damage, or injury sustained by you unless such loss, damage or injury arises out of a breach of legal duty of Cunard.

TRAVEL INSURANCE
Before booking any activity excursions it is essential that you ensure your travel insurance extends to cover the specified activity. It is your responsibility to obtain adequate insurance

This excursion will operate by jeep. The route taken is subject to local conditions. This tour is not suitable for those with injuries or conditions, which may be affected by the bumpy ride. Pregnant women and children may not participate. Each vehicle is equipped with seat belts, which must be worn. Due to the nature of this tour, casual clothing should be worn and it is advisable to take a sweater or light jacket, as it can be cooler in the mountains.

The natural bathing pools surrounded by lava rocks and filled with crystal clear ocean water are undoubtedly the main attraction of Porto Moniz.

An hour’s drive takes you to the delightful village of Porto Moniz, a remote coastal village located at the north-westernmost point of Madeira. The natural pools are known for their excellent bathing conditions and you will have approximately three hours of free time to spend here and explore at your leisure. Relax, swim and sunbathe at the lava pools or simply soak up the breathtaking scenery as you wander around this charming village. You may also choose to browse the souvenir stores or relax with a drink or snack in one of the nearby restaurants or cafes.


BEACH/WATER RELATED EXCURSIONS
For any excursion involving water, guests are reminded to exercise particular care. Alcohol and eating a full meal should be avoided before swimming. If buoyancy aids are provided for an activity they must be worn at all times. You should bear in mind that the sea is unpredictable. Lifeguards are unlikely to be present and there may not be a flag system to indicate whether or not it is safe to go in the water. In addition, beach activities may not be supervised or accompanied and so you should take care to satisfy yourself as to the safety of the beach and/or the sea at the time of your excursion. Please exercise caution when entering the sea as the seabed and aquatic environment is capable of springing surprises and we have not inspected the beach or seabed for its safety. Children must be supervised by you at all times near water. All activities on the beach, water and in the sea are undertaken at your own risk. You’ll need to take swimwear, a towel, sunscreen and flat shoes that can be worn in the water.

LIABILITY
Cunard will arrange for the excursions to be performed by the relevant excursion provider. Cunard does not provide or supply the excursion services. Cunard will exercise reasonable care and skill in the selection of the excursion provider, but will not in any circumstances have a greater liability than the excursion supplier and Cunard shall not be responsible for the negligent acts/omissions of the excursion supplier. Please note that in relation to all excursions Cunard is not responsible or liable for any loss, damage, or injury sustained by you unless such loss, damage or injury arises out of a breach of legal duty of Cunard.

TRAVEL INSURANCE
Before booking any activity excursions it is essential that you ensure your travel insurance extends to cover the specified activity. It is your responsibility to obtain adequate insurance.

This excursion will operate by coach. This tour is non-guided and does not include any meals, refreshments or entrance fees. You are advised to carry Euros, and bring a bathing suit, towel and sunscreen. The entrance fee to the pools is approximately Euro 1.50 per person to be paid directly. Lockers, showers and changing rooms are available. The drive from Funchal passes through a number of tunnels.