Funchal: Pirate Ship Cruise with Wine and Honey Cake Tasting

Traveling to Madeira offers plenty of chances to explore its stunning coastlines, vibrant marine life, and unique local traditions. One standout experience that combines adventure, culture, and spectacular scenery is the Pirate Ship Cruise aboard the Santa Maria. This three-hour voyage promises a blend of pirate fun, marine wildlife spotting, and authentic Madeira flavors, all set against the backdrop of Portugal’s beautiful southern coast.

What makes this trip especially appealing are the dramatic cliffs of Cabo Girão, the chance to spot dolphins and whales in their natural habitat, and the opportunity to taste Madeira wine and honey cake—a sweet touch that captures the island’s tradition. However, it’s worth noting that the tour doesn’t include hotel transfers, so you’ll need to plan your arrival at the meeting point.

This experience suits travelers looking for a relaxed yet exciting outing that combines nature, history, and local cuisine. If you enjoy boat trips with a bit of adventure and want a memorable way to see Madeira from the sea, this cruise is a solid choice.

Good To Know

• Authentic Replica: The Santa Maria is a faithful replica of Columbus’s flagship, adding a historical touch.
• Wildlife Spotting: Keep your camera ready for dolphins, whales, turtles, and seabirds.
• Scenic Highlights: The cruise offers stunning views of Madeira’s rugged coastlines and cliffs.
• Local Tastes: Enjoy Madeira wine and honey cake, two iconic regional delicacies.
• Sunset Views: The trip concludes with a breathtaking sunset over Calheta.
• No Hotel Pickup: Guests need to meet at the designated starting point.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Experience: A Closer Look at the Pirate Ship Cruise

Starting Point and Schedule

The tour begins at Santa Maria de Colombo, located at Cais 8 in Funchal. It’s important to arrive about 15 minutes before the scheduled start time to check in smoothly. The cruise lasts around 3 hours, with the option to select from available start times, making it flexible for different schedules.

The Santa Maria: A Floating Piece of History

The ship itself is a highlight. Built in 1998 in Câmara de Lobos, the Santa Maria closely resembles the vessel Christopher Columbus used during his first voyage—minus the age and the danger. Its appearance immediately transports passengers back to the 15th century, adding a sense of adventure and whimsy to the trip.

The Route and Highlights

Once aboard, you’ll set sail along Madeira’s south coast, with the chance to admire striking cliffs, lush greenery, and rugged coastlines. One of the main sights is Cabo Girão, famous for being Europe’s highest sea cliff at 1,932 feet (589 meters). It’s a perfect spot for photos, especially as the ship cruises past.

While cruising, keep an eye out for marine life—dolphins are almost guaranteed, and occasional whale sightings make this a special wildlife experience. Reviewers mention how “dolphins, whales, turtles, and birds” are often seen, and spotting them adds a joyous element to the journey.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Relaxing on Deck

Passengers can unwind on the deck, soaking up the Portuguese sun and enjoying the fresh sea breeze. The ship offers a bar with cocktails for purchase, which adds a leisurely vibe. Many travelers appreciate the laid-back atmosphere, where you can simply relax, take photos, or chat with fellow adventurers.

Food and Drink

One of the trip’s cultural highlights is the tasting of Madeira wine and honey cake. The honey cake is a traditional sweet, and the wine—known for its unique flavor—is a great way to taste the island’s heritage. As one reviewer put it, “savoring Madeira wine and honey cake felt like tasting a piece of history.” This short tasting session complements the scenic views perfectly.

Sunset and Final Moments

The tour ends with a spectacular sunset over Calheta, providing a perfect photo opportunity. Watching the sky change color over the Atlantic is a calming, memorable way to close this maritime adventure.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Santa Maria de Colombo: The Launchpad

The journey begins at the designated meeting point in Funchal. The check-in process is straightforward, and arriving a little early ensures plenty of time to settle on board and get ready for departure. The crew, including guides and sailors, are often praised for their friendly and informative approach.

Cruising Past Cabo Girão

The ship makes its way near Cabo Girão, giving guests a close-up view of Europe’s highest sea cliff. The guided commentary highlights the geological and historical significance of the area, making it more than just a scenic cruise.

Marine Wildlife Spotting

Dolphin sightings are often described as “frequent,” and whales are not uncommon. Reviewers mention the delight of seeing dolphins leap and whales breaching, which adds a sense of wonder. The crew is experienced in spotting marine life, so keep your binoculars handy if you have them.

Sampling Madeira’s Flavors

The wine tasting takes a brief but meaningful turn into Madeira’s gastronomic culture. The honey cake is a local delicacy, rich and sweet—a perfect accompaniment while gazing at the sea. Several reviews emphasize how these tastings deepen the sense of connection to Madeira’s traditions.

The Sunset Finale

As the boat heads back towards port, the sun begins to set. The golden light reflects on the water, creating a magical atmosphere. Many guests comment that it’s one of the best ways to end the cruise—serene, beautiful, and perfect for photos.

Practical Tips and Considerations

• Price and Value: At $61 per person, the cruise offers a well-rounded experience that combines scenic beauty, wildlife, and local flavors. Compared to other tours in Madeira, it provides good value for those wanting a mix of adventure and culture.
• What to Bring: Sunscreen, hat, camera, swimwear, towel, snacks, and water are recommended—especially if you plan to spend time on deck or want to take photos.
• Weather Dependence: As with any sea trip, weather conditions can affect the experience. If the sea is rough, the tour might be less comfortable, so check the forecast if you’re sensitive to motion.
• Group Size: The tour typically involves a small to medium-sized group, making it intimate enough for conversation but lively enough for a social vibe.
• No Hotel Pickup: You’ll need to organize your own transportation to the meeting point, which is easy to reach in Funchal.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Clare from the UK summed up her experience with a simple yet enthusiastic comment: “It was a beautiful trip, the boat was brilliant.” She appreciated the relaxed atmosphere, the stunning views, and the chance to see wildlife up-close. Her praise highlights the tour’s ability to deliver a scenic, fun, and memorable outing.

Another reviewer mentioned the dive near Cabo Girão, suggesting that the cruise offers more than just sightseeing—adventure lovers might find opportunities for additional activities or photos of the cliffs from unique angles.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a laid-back yet engaging experience. If you’re curious about Madeira’s marine life, enjoy beautiful coastlines, or want an authentic taste of local traditions with wine and honey cake, this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s also suited for those who prefer a relaxed pace and a touch of historical ambiance, thanks to the Santa Maria’s impressive appearance.

However, if you’re after a more active or exclusive experience, you might want to explore other options like private charters or longer wildlife expeditions. Keep in mind that hotel transfers are not included, so plan accordingly.

Final Thoughts: Why You Should Consider This Cruise

The Pirate Ship Cruise on Santa Maria offers a delightful mix of adventure, scenery, and culture. The chance to sail on a historically inspired vessel and encounter Madeira’s wildlife creates a memorable outing. The stunning views of Cabo Girão and the sunset at the end are genuine highlights, leaving you with beautiful photos and stories to tell.

For travelers who want an authentic, fun experience that balances sightseeing with cultural tastings, this cruise provides excellent value. It’s a fantastic way to spend part of your Madeira holiday, especially if you’re looking to relax and enjoy nature from a unique vantage point.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not part of this tour. You will need to meet at the Santa Maria de Colombo in Funchal 15 minutes before departure.

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise lasts approximately 3 hours, with departure times varying based on availability.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, sunscreen, water, swimwear, towel, camera, and snacks if you wish. It’s best to dress comfortably for the weather.

Can I see dolphins or whales?
Yes, guided tours often mention opportunities to spot dolphins, whales, turtles, and seabirds during the cruise.

Is the Santa Maria a real pirate ship?
The Santa Maria is a replica of Columbus’s flagship, built in 1998. It’s designed to look authentic but is a modern vessel.

Are drinks available onboard?
Yes, cocktails and drinks are available for purchase from the ship’s bar, perfect for relaxing on deck.

Is the cruise suitable for children?
Generally, yes. The relaxed nature and wildlife focus make it family-friendly, but children should be supervised, especially on the open deck.

What’s the best time to go?
Mornings and late afternoons are popular, especially for sunset viewing. Check the schedule for available times.

How much does the tour cost?
It costs around $61 per person, offering good value considering the scenery, wildlife, and cultural tastings included.

Is there a refund policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

To sum it up, this pirate ship cruise is a charming blend of history, nature, and local flavors that brings the best of Madeira’s coastline right to your doorstep. Perfect for those seeking a relaxed yet engaging day on the water, it’s a memorable choice that offers spectacular views, wildlife encounters, and a taste of Madeiran culture—all aboard a ship that’s as charming as the island itself.

You can check if your dates are available here: