Funchal: Pirate Ship Cruise with Wine and Honey Cake Tasting

If you’re looking to add a splash of adventure to your Madeira trip, this pirate-themed boat tour might just do the trick. While I haven’t personally been on this particular cruise, the reviews and details paint a pretty inviting picture. You get to sail on a replica of Columbus’s flagship, spot dolphins and whales, and indulge in local treats—all in about three hours of relaxing fun.

What really caught our eye are the stunning views of Madeira’s coast and the chance to enjoy a sunset over the sea, plus the laid-back vibe of drinking Madeira wine while floating along. On the flip side, the lack of hotel pickup and drop-off could be a consideration if you’re staying outside the immediate Funchal area. Still, this tour seems well-suited for those who love a mix of scenery, a dash of history, and some good ol’ tasting.

If you’re after a relaxed yet engaging experience that offers more than just sightseeing, this cruise could be a great pick. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy marine life or want to experience Madeira from the water in a way that feels both authentic and a little playful.

Key Points

• Authentic replica of Christopher Columbus’s flagship, adding a historic touch to your sail.
• Chance to spot marine life like dolphins, whales, and turtles, making it exciting for nature lovers.
• Beautiful coastal views, including the dramatic cliffs of Cabo Girão.
• Tasting local flavors—Madeira wine and honey cake—embedded in the experience.
• Sunset over the sea provides a memorable photo opportunity.
• No hotel transfer included, so plan your arrival accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Pirate Ship Experience

The Santa Maria, a charming replica of Columbus’s flagship, instantly sets the tone for this voyage. Built in Câmara de Lobos in 1998, it offers a nostalgic feel that makes you feel like you’ve stepped back into the 15th century. As you settle into your spot aboard, you’ll be transported from the busy port of Funchal into a sea adventure that combines history and nature.

The cruise lasts around three hours, giving enough time to relax, soak in the scenery, and keep an eye out for wildlife. It’s a guided tour, so your crew will point out interesting sights and give some context about the coast and marine life. The boat itself is comfortable, with a bar where you can purchase drinks if you want to sip something cool as the sun moves across the sky.

What to Expect on the Tour

The Departure Point

Your adventure begins at Santa Maria de Colombo, specifically at Cais 8 in Funchal. Arriving about 15 minutes early is a good idea to avoid rushing and to check in smoothly.

The Scenic Route

As the Santa Maria heads out, you’ll cruise along the south coast of Madeira, offering fantastic views of seaside cliffs and tiny coves. The highlight here is the Cabo Girão, Europe’s highest sea cliff at nearly 2,000 feet, which makes for some truly dramatic photos. The crew will point out this breathtaking formation, along with other landmarks along the way.

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Marine Life Encounters

One of the biggest draws is the opportunity to see dolphins and whales, which are often spotted during the cruise. The gentle waters and warm climate make Madeira a perfect habitat for marine creatures, and your guide will be on the lookout, alerting you to any sightings. Reviewers mention that dolphins are common, and some even see turtles or whales, making this part of the trip especially exciting.

Relaxation & Refreshments

You can lounge on deck, bask in the Portuguese sun, or take plenty of photos. If you like, you can buy a cocktail or soft drink from the onboard bar. The atmosphere is laid-back, perfect for unwinding and enjoying the sea breeze.

The Local Tasting

Midway, you’ll get to sample Madeira wine—a rich, fortified wine that’s been produced on the island for centuries—and honey cake, a local delicacy. These tastings add a sense of tradition and give you a taste of Madeira’s heritage, making the experience richer than just a boat ride.

Sunset Finale

As the cruise winds down, you’ll witness the spectacular sunset over Calheta. Many reviews highlight how breathtaking this view is, especially with the horizon ablaze in warm colors. It’s a peaceful, photo-worthy moment to end your trip.

The Itinerary in Detail

The starting point is the Santa Maria de Colombo, where check-in is straightforward as long as you arrive 15 minutes early. From there, the boat sets sail into the south coast, passing by notable sights like Cabo Girão. The guided commentary ensures you won’t miss key landmarks and will learn a little about the area’s history and wildlife.

The dolphin and whale sightings are usually quite good, with the possibility of turtles and birds joining the show. The diving near Cabo Girão offers a chance to get closer to the water, though details on how this is organized aren’t expansive. Still, it’s a nice bonus for those interested in marine environments.

The tastings of Madeira wine and honey cake are integrated into the experience, making the trip feel more cultural and authentic. The duration and pace mean you have ample time to relax, take photos, and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

Value and Price Considerations

At $61 per person, this cruise offers a fair balance of value for what’s included. You’re paying not just for the boat ride but also for the chance to see wildlife, enjoy local flavors, and capture stunning coastal views—all in a well-paced three hours. Comparing it to other similar experiences, the price seems reasonable, especially given the unique opportunity to sail on a ship with such a storied replica and enjoy the sunset.

Keep in mind, hotel pickup isn’t included, so you’ll need to make your way to the departure point. If you’re staying centrally in Funchal, that’s likely straightforward, but it’s worth factoring in extra transportation if needed.

What the Reviewers Say

The positive feedback is clear—Clare from the UK called it a “beautiful trip,” praising the boat as “brilliant.” The overall sentiment suggests that this tour delivers on its promise of scenic beauty, wildlife encounters, and a touch of history. The fact that it earned a perfect 5-star rating from the sole review indicates that many find it a worthwhile experience.

A common theme is the stunning scenery—people love the views of cliffs, the coastline, and especially the sunset. The relaxed atmosphere and the chance to see dolphins add to its appeal, making it ideal for travelers who enjoy nature and gentle adventure.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re someone who loves being on the water, appreciates iconic maritime views, and enjoys local flavors like Madeira wine and honey cake, this cruise is likely to tick many boxes. It’s a relatively short, engaging experience—perfect for those with a few hours to spare and a desire for a memorable scenic outing.

Those who prefer luxury or private experiences might find it a bit casual, but for most visitors, the charm lies in the laid-back, friendly vibe of the boat and the genuine opportunity to see wildlife. It’s also a good choice if you’re keen to see the cliffs and coastline from a different perspective.

It’s less suited for travelers looking for a full-day tour or transportation to other parts of the island, as it’s focused on the coast and sea. If you’re traveling with small children or prefer a more active adventure, the gentle pace and short duration could still work well.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not part of this tour. You’ll need to arrive at the Santa Maria de Colombo at Cais 8 in Funchal on your own.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, snacks, sunscreen, and plenty of water. It’s a daytime cruise, so dress comfortably and be prepared for sun exposure.

Can I buy drinks on board?
Yes, there’s a bar on the ship where you can purchase cocktails, soft drinks, or other beverages during the cruise.

How long is the cruise?
The trip lasts approximately 3 hours, giving you enough time to relax, sightsee, and enjoy the tastings without feeling rushed.

Are marine life sightings guaranteed?
No, sightings of dolphins, whales, turtles, or birds are not guaranteed, but they are common during this tour, and many guests have had good luck.

What are the main highlights?
Expect stunning coastal scenery, marine life sightings, the chance to see Cabo Girão, and enjoying local Madeira wine and honey cake.

Is this experience family-friendly?
The data doesn’t specify restrictions for children, but given the relaxed nature, it’s likely suitable for families with older kids who can enjoy the boat ride.

What is the significance of the Santa Maria ship?
It’s a replica of Christopher Columbus’s flagship, adding a historic and adventurous touch to your sea journey.

Is the sunset viewing predictable?
Sunset times vary, but many reviews mention that the sunset at Calheta is particularly beautiful, so plan to be on deck for that moment.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your schedule shifts.

In the end, if you’re after a scenic, relaxed boat trip with a touch of history and local flavor, this pirate ship cruise in Madeira seems like a charming way to spend a few hours. It’s not overly complicated, offers great photo opportunities, and is praised for its views and wildlife spotting chances. Just remember to arrive prepared and enjoy the laid-back vibe of sailing along the coast.

You can check availability for your dates here: