MADEIRA CRUISES with PONANT

There is huge excitement from passengers that experience one of our Ponant Madeira Cruise Deals.

Madeira is part of an archipelago at the corner of Portugal and off the Moroccan coast. Of those who face the onslaught of the Atlantic Ocean while preserving a subtropical climate and who have made various cultural influences a source of wealth. To undertake a trip to Madeira is to take a breath of fresh air, between hikes, picturesque walks and tastings. Our Ponant cruise trip to Madeira, visits focus primarily on the two inhabited islands of the archipelago, Madeira and Porto Santo. Gourmet discoveries, hikes or sea trips: there is no shortage of activities.  

Relaxing in Funchal

Dominating the south of the island of Madeira, the capital of the Portuguese archipelago is a haven of peace in the heart of the Atlantic. It is pleasant to walk through the tangled alleys of the old town, to discover the fortress of Santiago , erected in 1614 to protect the city from pirates, to walk along Santa Maria street with its houses with doors painted by different artists. For a lively visit, nothing beats strolling past the amazing and colorful stalls of Mercado dos Lavradores . Quieter, the museum of sacred art reveals an interesting collection of Flemish and Portuguese art. But it's in the tropical garden of Monte Palacelet the magic happen. There are many species of flowers and endemic plants in the middle of which lakes, fountains, pagodas and panels of azulejos create an enchanting setting... And the view over the bay of Funchal is breathtaking!

Local know-how - basketry

If Madeira is famous for its wine, it is also for its basketry. It is in Camacha , the largest village in the center of the island, that there are several workshops where many handicrafts are made. Furniture, decorative objects, baskets, suspensions… These craftsmen are not lacking in imagination, perpetuating a unique know-how. What to get some authentic souvenirs and promote local production.

The mountain views of Madeira

Peaking at 1,862 and 1,818 meters respectively, Pico Ruivo and Pico do Ariero are among the three highest peaks in Madeira. From the Poiso pass , at 1,413 meters above sea level, weather permitting, the view of these two peaks allows you to appreciate the steep and volcanic relief of Madeira. Seasoned hikers will certainly want to set off above the clouds.

In the wake of Christopher Colombus

The name of Christopher Columbus is no stranger to any traveller. But in Porto Santo, it is of particular importance. In 1478, before becoming a famous explorer, this merchant navigator was attacked by corsairs. He takes refuge in Porto Santo , where he meets the daughter of Bartolomeu Perestrelo, the island's first governor. It is rumored that it was during his few years in the Madeira archipelago that Christopher Columbus had the idea of ​​crossing the Atlantic to reach India... The King of Portugal having rejected his request, Christopher Columbus went into exile in Castile . But Porto Santo still celebrates his memory with an annual festival and through a collection of exhibits in his former home.

Hiking in Porto Santo

ompletely different from Madeira, Porto Santo presents more arid landscapes. Nature still has a few surprises in store! Discovering them during a hike remains the best option, especially since the “golden island” has several hiking trails. They lead to the two highest points: Pico do Facho and Pico do Castelo and offer exceptional views of the surroundings. The opportunity to enjoy the superb fine sandy beach which is also famous for Porto Santo.

The Wine Cellar & Vineyards of Madeira

The reputation of Madeira wine is well established. For 200 years, the Blandy family has been one of the pillars of this tradition, continuing to work the land and work for the quality of Madeira. The visit to the cellar begins with the traditional quinta , a typical 19th century property, home to gardens planted with flowers and centuries-old trees from all over the world. It continues with a tour of the vineyards, the cooperage and the discovery of vinification in huge vats made of Ceylon lemon tree wood. It ends with a tasting. The opportunity to discover new flavors.

Whales & Dolphins at play

For many, it is the spectacle not to be missed: watching dolphins and whales in Madeira. The archipelago is indeed a privileged place to witness the ballet of cetaceans in the water because it is on their migratory routes. Since the 1980s, the Portuguese government has implemented very strict marine animal protection laws around Madeira, making it a real sanctuary for the pilot whale, bottlenose dolphin, Atlantic spotted dolphin or common dolphin. . There is nothing better than getting on a speedboat and letting these curious animals approach your boat!

Famous local delicacies of Madeira

Swordfish, tuna or black scabbard, beef skewers, sweet potatoes, corn, bananas and exotic fruits… Madeira cuisine surprises. A mixture of Portuguese and African influences, it offers a variety of expertly prepared meats and fish in recipes that often combine sweetness and salty notes. Nothing better than taking a cooking class with a local chef to appreciate the breadth of Madeiran gastronomy . Head to the local market in Funchal to stock up before heading to the kitchens and getting behind the stove before the tasting.

And thanks to our Ponant Cruise Deals we can deliver the best holiday ever!

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