Madeira Achadas Cruz, Porto Moniz, Seixal for Cruise Ship

Discovering Madeira’s Coastline: A Detailed Look at the Achadas Cruz, Porto Moniz, and Seixal Cruise Ship Tour

If you’re docked in Funchal and craving a day filled with breathtaking views, unique experiences, and a taste of local flavors, this Madeira tour might catch your eye. Designed specifically for cruise ship travelers, it promises to pack a lot into around five hours — from riding Europe’s steepest cable car to relaxing in natural sea pools and snapping Instagram-worthy shots at Seixal’s black sand beach.

What we really appreciate about this experience is its focus on diverse highlights — the thrill of the cable car ride and the serenity of natural pools. Plus, the inclusion of local Poncha drinks and a friendly guide makes it more personal. That said, a potential drawback could be the weather — Madeira’s unpredictable climate might sometimes influence the planned stops or the cable car operation. This tour suits those looking for a well-rounded taste of Madeira’s scenic spots without a full-day commitment.

If you’re the type who loves combining adventure, scenic beauty, and a touch of local culture, this trip could be just right. It’s especially great for cruise travelers who want a snapshot of Madeira’s highlights without worrying about navigating on their own.

Key Points

• Stunning Views & Unique Experiences: From Europe’s steepest cable car to Seixal’s dramatic black sand beach.
• Perfect for Cruise Passengers: Short, efficient, and includes transportation from Funchal port.
• Includes Local Flavors: A refreshing Poncha or local drink as part of the tour.
• Weather Considerations: Weather can impact the cable car and some outdoor activities.
• Small Group Atmosphere: Limited to 8 travelers, making it more personalized.
• Value for Money: Combines multiple highlights at a reasonable price, with some entrance fees included.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary and What to Expect

Starting at Achadas da Cruz with Europe’s Steepest Cable Car

The adventure kicks off early, with pickup from Funchal’s cruise port around 8:30 am. You’ll head to the Achadas da Cruz cable car, which is quite the thrill — descending 600 meters downhill along a gradient of 98%. Imagine the views as you glide over rugged cliffs and lush landscapes, with an ascent that’s often highlighted as the tour’s standout feature. The cable car fee is included, so it’s a smooth start to your day.

The cable car ride isn’t just about transportation; it’s an experience in itself. We loved the way this offers a perspective you won’t find elsewhere, soaring above Madeira’s rugged terrain. Keep in mind, the cable car can close due to weather or maintenance, so it might be worth checking the forecast or being flexible with the timing. Fans of scenic adventures will find this a highlight, especially since some reviews mention the guide’s knack for timing the visits to avoid long queues.

Exploring Porto Moniz’s Natural Sea Pools

After the cable car thrill, the tour continues to Porto Moniz, famous for its volcanic natural swimming pools. Here, you can cool off in clear waters surrounded by black volcanic rocks, creating a striking contrast against the sea. The entrance fee isn’t included in the tour price, but we think it’s well worth the small extra cost — around 3 euros per person.

The pools are a favorite for many visitors, offering a safe, scenic spot to relax and take photos. We loved the way the pools blend natural beauty with a touch of adventure, especially if you’re brave enough to swim in the cooler Atlantic waters. It’s a laid-back stop, giving you about an hour and a half to enjoy the scenery and perhaps snap some pictures of the rugged coastline.

Capturing the Beauty at Seixal’s Black Sand Beach

Next, you’ll visit Seixal, a black sand beach that’s become Instagram-famous for its dramatic landscape. This stop is brief but sweet — just 30 minutes — enough to breathe in the fresh sea air, snap photos of waterfalls cascading near the beach, and enjoy the view of the sea meeting lush greenery.

We found Seixal’s scenery quite mesmerizing. The contrast of the black sand against the turquoise water makes for stunning images, and the waterfalls add a whimsical touch. It’s a free stop, so bring your camera — the landscape is genuinely postcard-worthy. Just be prepared for the limited time, which means no long lounging here, but plenty of opportunities to soak in the scenery.

The Extras That Make This Tour Special

Guided Experience and Local Touches

The tour is guided by a local driver, who’s often praised for being friendly, knowledgeable, and able to optimize the route to avoid crowds. One reviewer called the guide “super friendly, extremely knowledgeable and very welcoming,” highlighting how good timing and local insights can elevate the experience.

Refreshments and Small Details

Included in the price are a water bottle for the ride, a small local drink (Poncha, beer, or soft drink), and a coffee. These small touches help make the day feel relaxed and personal, especially after the more active parts of the trip.

Convenience and Flexibility

The transportation from Funchal port is a big plus, especially if you’re on a tight cruise schedule. The tour is designed to maximize your time, with all logistics handled, so you can focus on enjoying the sights.

Price & Value: Is It Worth It?

At $73.29 per person, the tour offers a decent value considering the included cable car ticket, local drinks, and guided service. Entrance to Porto Moniz pools costs extra, but at just 3 euros, it’s a small additional expense. For a half-day adventure packed with scenic stops and unique rides, it’s a pretty good deal.

What we appreciate most is the combination of experiences — the thrill of the cable car, the tranquility of the pools, and the striking scenery of Seixal. It’s a balanced itinerary that covers different aspects of Madeira’s landscape, helping you get a comprehensive snapshot without exhausting yourself.

Caveats on Weather and Timing

A key consideration is Madeira’s weather. Since the cable car can close unexpectedly, and some outdoor activities might be affected, flexibility is essential. The tour advises that times are approximate, and weather conditions could shorten or delay stops. If you’re unlucky with the weather, some parts might be less enjoyable, but the guide’s expertise can help mitigate that.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for cruise travelers who want a compact but diverse Madeira adventure. It’s perfect if you’re after stunning views, a bit of adventure, and local flavors, all wrapped into a manageable half-day. People who enjoy scenic rides, natural beauty, and quick cultural touches will find this especially satisfying.

It’s also suitable for those who appreciate small group tours, as the maximum size is just 8 travelers, fostering a more intimate experience. While not explicitly family-focused, those with older children or teens who can handle a bit of walking and outdoor exposure will do well here.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, starting at 8:30 am and returning to Funchal port around midday or early afternoon.

What’s included in the price?
You get transportation from Funchal port, the cable car ticket at Achadas da Cruz, a guide, water, a local drink, and coffee. Entrance to Porto Moniz pools costs extra.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. You can then get a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, but weather conditions may affect some activities. The tour is small, so it’s good for those comfortable with a bit of outdoor exploration.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, sun protection, and maybe a swimsuit if you want to enjoy the pools.

What if the cable car is closed?
The tour might be affected, and some stops could be shortened. The guide will do their best to make adjustments, and weather-related cancellations are possible.

In the end, this Madeira tour offers a lively and scenic snapshot of the island’s coast with a good mix of thrill, relaxation, and photo ops. It’s best suited for those who want a quick yet memorable taste of Madeira’s natural beauty — all wrapped up with friendly guidance and a touch of local flavor.