cruise ships in funchal in march

Funchal, Madeira

Funchal Cruise Ship Schedule

• Cruise Ships Activity

Cruise Ships Schedule

The movement of cruise ships in the Autonomous Region of Madeira is quite intense. During the high season it is common for several ships to arrive and depart from the port of Funchal every day, attracting tourists to discover the beauties of the island. In the calendar of arrivals and departures of ships from the ports of Funchal and Porto Santo, it is possible to check the forecast of the cruises that will be in place in the next few days. Information includes ship name, arrival time and departure time.

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• Funchal Port Cruise Ships

Cruise Ships in the Port of Funchal

Observe the cruise ships docked at the Port of Funchal today and every day of the week; they arrive in the early mornings and depart in the afternoons, or they may stay for one or two nights.

Through the use of our Funchal Marina Live Webcam , you can take in the sights of the cruise ships anchored at the port as well as the arrivals and departures of cruise ships at and from the Port of Funchal, all from the comfort of your own home.

On December 31, 2006, Madeira Island, Portugal was awarded the Guinness World Records™ certificate for the largest firework display in the world ( see Video ).

In 2021, twelve cruise ships were moored in and around the bay, all waiting for the city's famous midnight fireworks display. The Vasco da Gama, Amadea, AIDAmar, Bolette, Queen Elizabeth, Borealis, AIDAsol, AIDAnova, Mein Schiff 3, Sea Cloud Spirit, Marella Explorer, and Mein Schiff Herz were among the luxury cruise ship stopovers scheduled for the end of the year.

Welcome to 2022!

The following cruise ships have arrived or are scheduled to arrive in Funchal in the coming days:

Carnival Celebration - arrival Nov 11 at 05:30 - departure Nov 11 at 16:00 Oosterdam - arrival Nov 11 at 07:00 - departure Nov 11 at 20:00 Santa Maria Manuela - arrival Nov 11 at 08:00 - departure Nov 13 at 17:00 Azura - arrival Nov 14 at 06:15 - departure Nov 14 at 22:00 Santa Maria Manuela - arrival Nov 14 at 16:00 - departure Nov 16 at 09:00 Santa Maria Manuela - arrival Nov 17 at 09:00 - departure Nov 18 at 17:00 Azura - arrival Nov 21 at 06:15 - departure Nov 21 at 22:00 Amera - arrival Nov 22 at 07:00 - departure Nov 22 at 18:00 Spirit Of Adventure - arrival Nov 23 at 07:00 - departure Nov 23 at 17:00 Azura - arrival Nov 27 at 11:45 - departure Nov 27 at 23:59 Amadea - arrival Nov 29 at 07:00 - departure Nov 30 at 14:00

More cruise ships are expected to arrive this week, so stay tuned.

Visit Portos da Madeira for further information.

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Cruises from/to Funchal, Madeira, Portugal

Funchal, madeira, portugal cruise port.

Funchal is the capital city of Madeira, an island off the coast of Portugal. This island was named for the Portuguese word for “wood” because it was so densely forested when explorers found it. Today the area is covered in flora and fauna and is a popular vacation spot for Europeans. In its past, Funchal became a popular place for sailors and merchants, including Christopher Columbus. The city was a major spot for the sugar industry and later wine. Madeira wine is one of the island’s biggest exports, and a real treat for travelers cruising to Funchal, Portugal. Featured below are a few of our favorite experiences for the cruise port of Funchal, Portugal:

• Enjoy the intricate displays of plants at the Palheiro Gardens, which are on the Palheiro Estate which also has art exhibitions, a golf course and a spa.  
• Take the Funchal Cable Car up to Monte where you’ll have incredible views of the island. At the bottom of the cable car are the Madeira Botanical Gardens.  
• Sip the local wine on a tour of Blandy’s Wine Lodge. Here you can learn about the production of the wine and get to taste several varieties.  
• Learn about the man who discovered Madeira, Joao Gonclaves Zarco, at his former home. Here you’ll also glimpse valuable goods that were traded during this time, including porcelain.

Top 10 Cruises to Funchal, Madeira, Portugal

• Nieuw Statendam 14-day Canary Island Allure Departing From Rotterdam, The Netherlands (Apr 2024)
• Nieuw Statendam 27-day Canary Island Allure & Jewels Of The Baltic Departing From Rotterdam, The Netherlands (Apr 2024)
• MSC Virtuosa 11 NIGHT Europe - Northern CRUISE Departing From Southampton, England (Apr 2024)
• Seven Seas Mariner 24 NIGHT Africa CRUISE Departing From Cape Town, South Africa (Apr 2024)
• Anthem of the Seas 12 NIGHT TRANSATLANTIC CRUISE Departing From Cape Liberty (Bayonne), New Jersey (Apr 2024)
• Queen Anne 14 NIGHT Europe - Western CRUISE Departing From Southampton, England (May 2024 - Dec 2026)
• Seven Seas Mariner 12 NIGHT Transatlantic CRUISE Departing From Lisbon, Portugal (May 2024 - Jun 2026)
• Crystal Serenity 12 Night CSE-012-240527 Departing From Las Palmas, Gran Canaria, Canary Islands (May 2024)
• Marina 12 NIGHT Europe CRUISE Departing From Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy (Jun 2024)
• MSC Virtuosa 21 NIGHT Europe - Northern CRUISE Departing From Southampton, England (Jun 2024)

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Cruise to Madeira (Funchal), Portugal

Madeira (funchal) shore excursions, amazing experiences coming soon., sorry, there are no excursions for this port at this moment., things to do in madeira (funchal).

Get Irrigated

A woman climbing the staircase at Pico de Areeiro in Madeira (Funchal), Portugal

A trip to Madeira isn't complete until you've walked along a levanda . With over 3,000 kilometers of irrigation channels around the island, the routes are endless. Wander deep into chasms, across mountains or through long tunnels, and discover some of the best views on the island.

Shipwreck Dives

Ponte do Gabrie on the coast of Portugal

Strap on your diving gear and jump into the crystal-clear waters of Madeira. Explore shipwrecks like Bowbelle, and observe sea life like anemones, fish and seals with a front-row seat to one of the best diving locations in all of Europe.

View From the Air

Take to the sky to catch a glimpse of Madeira Island from above. Adrenaline junkies will soar through the heavens while hang-gliding or paragliding over massive mountains and bewitching blue waters. First-timers are welcome, and tandem options with a guide are available.

Local Cuisine

On Madeira island, you'll find plenty of fresh seafood to sink your teeth into. Try filete de espada , a swordfish filet prepared the Madeiran way, with passion fruit and banana sauce. If that's too sweet for you, try the smoky espetada madeirense , beef cubes on a skewer cooked over wood or charcoal. Got a sweet tooth? Cruise to Madeira to try bolo de mel de cana , the local honey cake.

Shop till you drop on Funchal's main streets. Find regional goods, Portuguese delicacies and international shops in the capital city. For a more local feel, head to Feira da Lagartixa. Cruise to Madeira and try your bartering skills at the flea market on Saturdays, and discover unique treasures to bring back home with you.

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Funchal (Portugal) Madeira Cruise Port Guide: Review (2023)

Where is the cruise port in Funchal, where cruise ships dock, what's at the cruise terminal and the shuttle bus; top things to do, how to explore Funchal on a cruise, sightseeing, top attractions in Madeira, what's within walking distance and top shore excursions (shorex).

By: Editor-in-Chief Update: May 26, 2023

The cruise port in Funchal on the Portuguese island of Madeira is a delight for cruise visitors that like to discover enchanting towns and villages, contemplate spectacular landscapes, and visit gardens with unique flora.

• Where is Funchal cruise port

Where cruise ships dock

Shuttle bus in funchal.

• Cruise terminal

How to explore Funchal on a cruise

Sightseeing in funchal, things to do in funchal, top attractions in madeira, what's within walking distance.

• Shore excursions (Shorex)

Must-know: tourist info and language

• Safety, emergencies, and basics

Funchal is one of the most visited cruise port of call in the South European Atlantic itineraries during the Spring-Summer season with 597.818 passengers and over 300 cruise ship visits in 2019.

The cruise port of Funchal has a very appealing character. The port area is neat and well-kept. Overall, Funchal is safe; the locals are friendly, polite, and speak English well. Cruise passengers with walking difficulties will find it straightforward to wander around in Funchal independently. However, there are just a few things to do for those cruising with families.

Where is Funchal's cruise port

Funchal, the capital city of Madeira's archipelago (with a population of around 111,900), is located in the Southern European Atlantic region. The city and the cruise port are on Madeira Island's southern coast, on the Atlantic Ocean's shore.

Funchal is 608 miles (979 km) southwest of Lisbon on the coast of Portugal, 295 miles (474 km) north of Santa Cruz de Tenerife , and 603 miles (970 km) southeast of Ponta Delgada (Azores) ) .

Ships dock on a small dedicated cruise port with a breakwater parallel to the coast with quays for up to 3 vessels to berth. A fourth cruise ship may dock on a smaller pier on the shore, close to the CR7 Museum (Cristiano Ronaldo portuguese soccer player).

There is a terminal building in the port of Funchal. At the cruise terminal or just outside, passengers will find almost all essential services and amenities. Cruise visitors can walk to the heart of Funchal, which is no more than 1 mile (1.6 km) from the port. But you will find taxis right outside the cruise terminal charging €7.50 euros per taxi (up to 4 passengers) one way. And there is also a shuttle bus.

There is a shuttle bus in Funchal cruise port provided by the port authority charging US$9.00 (return). However, most upper-premium and luxury cruise lines offer the shuttle bus complimentary. The shuttle bus pick-up is just outside the terminal. The shuttle drop-off is in the historical city center, either or on the main street or a square. The shuttle bus drop-off locations have changed in recent years, and it would be misleading to specify one in particular.

Cruise terminal services and amenities

The cruise terminal is at the center of the long breakwater pier. Cruise passengers will find at the cruise terminal or right outside on the long breakwater the following services and amenities:

• ATM and Money Exchange kiosk
• Brochures and maps
• Souvenirs, gifts, and local crafts vendors
• International Press Kiosk
• Taxis with sightseeing fares
• Hop-on hop-off buses
• Tuk-tuk sightseeing
• Self sightseeing small electric cars

Cruise visitors can enjoy many attractions in Madeira independently, but cruise excursions are advisable to sites where a qualified guide will add extra awareness. You can easily explore the historical center of Funchal on your own, either on foot or with sightseeing services. Simply put, there are four possible ways to discover Funchal (Madeira):

• Book a Shore Excursion
• Sightseeing services
• Taxi, Uber or Lift

At the time of publishing this review, both City Sightseeing and Yellow Bus Tours have been suspended due to Covid-19. However, both operated very successfully in Funchal in the past. And it is expected these services will be operational once cruising resumes. Click on the links below to check schedules and prices. Here are the sightseeing services for cruise visitors that usually run in Funchal:

• City Sightseeing - hop-on hop-off
• Yellow bus tours - hop-on hop-off
• Tuk Madeira City Tours
• Tukxi Madeira
• Funchal Tuk Tuk
• Citybubbles: small electric cars self GPS sightseing

The following are the top things to do on a cruise to the port of Funchal in Madeira (Portugal):

• Tour scenic landscapes and viewpoints
• Enjoy stuning gardens with unique flora
• Stroll quaint villages
• Explore the historical center of Funchal
• Experience the thrill of a Toboggan Ride
• Taste Madeira Wine
• Visit embroidery factories
• Treat yourself with Afternoon Tea at Reid's Hotel

The island of Madeira has quite a few sites for those that enjoy nature gazing. Cruise visitors that appreciate quaint landmarks will be able to discover enchanting towns and villages. And the historical city of Funchal has many attractions. Here are the top attractions cruises visitors can enjoy in Madeira on a call to the port in Funchal:

• Madeira Cable Car Climb the slopes of Funchal to the top of the city Monte parish. Must-see: Monte Palace Tropical Gardens and Museum of Semi-Precious Stones; the Church of Our Lady of the Mount, Monte Municipal Park. To do: take a ride on a two-seater wicker toboggan. How to visit: on a shore excursion or on your own. Read more on the official website: madeiracablecar.com
• Church of Our Lady of Monte In the Monte parish, you can reach the Church of Our Lady of Monte with the famous Madeira Cable Car. The church was built on the foundations of a 15th-century chapel and completed in 1818. It is the burial site of Charles I of Habsburg, the last emperor of Austria, who died in exile in Madeira in 1922. The church is open Tuesday through Saturday 09.00-19.00 | Sunday and Monday 09.00-18.00. How to visit: on a shore excursion or on your own with the Madeira Cable Car . Read more: Visit Madeira Website
• Madeira Botanical Garden Open to the public since 1960, the Jardim Botânico da Madeira (in Portuguese) has 6.6 acres with over 2500 exotic plants. The views from the garden are spectacular. How to visit: on a shore excursion; or on your own with the Botanical Garden Cable Car . Read more: Wikipedia
• Câmara de Lobos and Cabo Girão Câmara de Lobos is a quaint fishing village on the south-central coast of Madeira, celebrated by Winston Churchill's paintings. Close by, Cabo Girão is a popular lookout point with the highest cliff skywalk in Europe - 1,900 ft (580 m) above sea level. How to visit: on a shore excursion. Read more: Wikipedia
• Funchal Cathedral The modest facade with a Gothic portal of the Cathedral, in the heart of Funchal, hides the richness of its interior. Must-see: gilded woodwork of the altarpiece, stalls of the chancel, oil paintings on wood, Mudejar ceiling. How to visit: on your own. Read more: Wikipedia
• Machico Once the capital of Madeira, Machico is a small bay where, on 1 July 1419, Portuguese explorers João Gonçalves Zarco and Tristão Vaz Teixeira disembarked in the Island for the first time. Must-see: museums, landmarks, churches. How to visit: on a shore excursion or on your own. Read more: visitmachico.com
• Santana Santana is a unique quaint village nestled amid forested hills. Must-see: traditional stone houses characterized by their steep, triangular-shaped thatched roofs. How to visit: on a shore excursion. Read more: Wikipedia
• Village of Ribeiro Frio This rustic village less than 10 miles (around 15 kilometers) from Funchal is known for its colorful trout farm. How to visit: on a shore excursion or on your own.
• Pico dos Barcelos Viewpoint with fantastic vistas overlooking the entire city of Funchal, its charming harbor, and alluring cliffs. How to visit: on a shore excursion or on your own. Read more: www.visitmadeira.pt
• Eira do Serrado The views over the Curral das Freiras from an observation in Eira do Serrado are stunning. How to visit: on a shore excursion. Read more: Wikipedia

Within walking distance of the cruise port, the historical center of Funchal has many attractions to explore and enjoy. Some of these are relatively close to the cruise terminal, but others (like the Cable Car and the old town) are over 1.5 miles (2.2 km) away. Cruise tip: take a taxi (€7.50 euros one way) to the farthest area of the city and walk back.

Attractions in the city of Funchal

Here are the top attractions, sites, and landmarks cruise visitors can enjoy on foot or with sightseeing services in Funchal, listed by closeness to the cruise port.

• CR7 Museum (Cristiano Ronaldo portuguese soccer player)
• Reid's Palace Hotel
• Royal Savoy Hotel
• Casino da Madeira
• Santa Catarina Park
• 3D Fun Art Museum
• Madeira Optics Museum
• Blandy's Wine Lodge
• Madeira Cable Car
• Bordal embroidery factory
• Funchal Market (Mercado dos Lavradores)
• Quinta das Cruzes Museum
• Church of St. John the Evangelist
• Sacred Art Museum
• Madeira Story Centre

Cruise shore excursions and tours

All cruise lines calling at the port of Funchal offer shore excursions to the top highlights of Madeira island and Funchal. Typical cruise excursions include tours to major attractions such as the Madeira Botanical Garden, Câmara de Lobos, Cabo Girão, Machico, Santana, the Village of Ribeiro Frio, and viewpoints like Pico dos Barcelos.

Royal Caribbean offers 14 shore excursions , Norwegian Cruise Line has available 10 shore tours , and Carnival lists 13 cruise excursions .

Celebrity Cruises offer as many 10 shore explorations , Holland America lists 17 shore tours and Princess has available 14 excursions .

The upper-premium cruise lines like Oceania, Viking, and Azamara visit Funchal regularly. Oceania Cruises organizes 20 shore excursions in Funchal cruise port.

Although most luxury cruise lines include shore excursions with the cruise fare, Regent, Seabourn and Silversea offer unique and diverse explorations ashore in Funchal. Regent lists 18 excursions , Seabourn has 12 excursions , and Silversea offers 8 excursions .

There are also excursions offered by the following reputable private online services and local tour operators:

• Shore Trips
• Shore Excursions Group
• Tours by Locals
• Cruising Excursions
• Shore Excursioneer

Tourist Info

Although you will not find a Tourist Office in the cruise terminal or at the pier, there are many official and private tourist information kiosks along the walk to the city center.

Portuguese is the official language but English is widely spoken. The English speaking cruise passenger will easily communicate with locals pretty much everywhere.

Business and commercial opening hours

Museums open from 10 am to 5 pm but close on Mondays. Shops are open on weekdays from 9 am to 7 pm, although some may be closed for lunch between 1 pm and 3 pm. Many shops close on Saturday after 1 pm. Shopping malls are open 7 days a week and on holidays from 10 am to 11 pm. Banks are open Monday to Friday from 8:30 am to 3 pm.

Safety, US travel advisory, and basics

For comprehensive and updated information about traveling to Portugal see the U.S. Department of State website page evolving advisory.

Covid-19 advice for cruises to Funchal, Madeira (Portugal)

For updated coronavirus (Covid-19) information and travel advice to Portugal and Funchal (Madeira) visit the website of the U.S. Embassy in Portugal . For more Traveler's Health advice to Portugal see the CDC Website .

Funchal, Madeira, Basic Info at a Glance

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Best of Funchal in One Day: The Ultimate Guide for Cruise Ship Passengers (Including Map)

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Ahoy, travelers! Are you hopping on a cruise ship voyage that takes you to the Hawaii of Europe , Madeira? Then you would be docking in the port of Funchal , the capital city of Madeira. Although Madeira is huge and offers a lot of great things to do for everyone, Funchal would be the best place to start. Nestled among the cliffs, with the touch of the Atlantic breeze, Funchal offers many enjoyable experiences and gives you a taste of the rest of the island.

Table of Contents

Is the Itinerary Suitable for Cruise Ship Passengers Only?

The answer is no. Although the itinerary is crafted with cruise ship passengers in mind, it works for all. Whether you come via a floating palace or fly in to explore the entire island, Funchal is worth visiting. I highly recommend spending a day in Funchal when visiting Madeira.

What to Expect in Funchal’s Port?

Although Funchal attracts many visitors, it is only possible to dock one ship at a time with the small harbor. The Cruise Terminal of Funchal is quite simple. However, Funchals port is conveniently situated just a stone’s throw away from the city center, making it possible for the visitors to quickly disembark and start their exploration right away.

Funchal is also perfect for visiting in a short time as its compact size and the strategic location of all the main attractions makes it easily accessible by foot or by using the city’s public transportation.

Best Things to Do in Funchal in One Day

You can choose all you want to do based on the time you have left to return to your ship. To make it easier for you, I have added a small section to indicate the average time needed to visit a place. Even better, I have also added the amount of time it would take for you to get back to the port, just in case you took too long in one spot and can’t continue forward with the itinerary, you will always know when to return or what your next stop can be. I have also added a map marking all the places of attraction listed in the post so you can plan your route accordingly.

How To Use The Map?

The orange suitcases are the locations from the post. If required, zoom in and click on a suitcase to view brief details about the location. Click ‘View in Google Maps’ to view the location’s complete details in Google Maps.

1. Roam in Funchal’s Old Town

The typical cobblestone streets filled with shops and restaurants with nice tables set up on their terraces are the first sight you will be treated to once you enter the city’s center. But the old town is much more than that. Wander into the narrow streets, which will take you back in time and captivate you with its allure.

The old town of Funchal, Zona Velha , is brimming with centuries-old architecture, quaint squares, and a vibrant atmosphere that seamlessly blends the old with the new.

The best way to explore the old town would be to take a walking tour. However, it might require you to pre-book your tour, and also it would take a few hours. I would recommend doing this if you have a lot of time in hand or are not keen on visiting many other places during the day.

Tip!   Sit at an outdoor café, sip on a traditional Poncha cocktail, and enjoy the city’s rhythm.

Some Highly Rated Walking Tours

• Funchal: Old Town Walking Tour
• Old Funchal Walking Tour
• Old Town Tour (You can pay anything you want at the end based on how you liked it.)

Psst!   You could stroll around the old town center by yourself and still enjoy it. I have other places of interest from the old town listed separately, so you would not miss out on anything.

Average Time Spent

Typically 1 to 2 hours. But it mostly depends on how much you walk around and whether or not you visit a restaurant. I recommend spending some time here to enjoy the vibe.

Time to Reach Funchal’s Port

The Cruise terminal is just a 20 minutes walk from the city center. Based on your exact location, it might take you a little more or less.

2. Check Out Fresh Produce at the Farmer’s Market (Mercado Dos Lavradores)

I can hear you asking why should we visit the farmer’s market? We are not here to stay and especially not to buy veggies to cook, so why bother going to a market? The farmer’s market is set up in a commercial space within the center of the town, and it was inaugurated in 1940 and still retains the charm of the past. This lively marketplace, known as Mercado dos Lavradores , is a vibrant tapestry of colors, scents, and flavors and the best place to soak in the culture of this island.

As you meander through the market’s bustling aisles, your senses are tantalized by the vibrant hues of fresh fruits, exotic spices, and fragrant flowers. The air is filled with the invigorating aroma of ripe tropical fruits, mingling with the earthy scent of freshly harvested vegetables. Some of them you would have never seen before. The locals are friendly and welcoming and are very eager to share a story or two about the agricultural industry or the culture of the city and local insights. You could also learn about how to identify the best fruits to pick.

Delight in the ornate display of handmade wicker baskets, traditional handicrafts, and intricate embroidery, each piece reflecting Madeira’s rich cultural heritage.

Typically around an hour.

The Cruise terminal is 30 minutes by walk from the Farmer’s Market. Based on your exact location, it might take you a little more or less. You could easily reach in under 10 minutes in a cab. The taxi in Madeira is very affordable.

Pro Tip!   Make sure to install the Uber and Bolt apps. Set up your payment method beforehand to quickly book a taxi if necessary. You can also compare prices on both apps and book your best choice.

3. Walk Through Rua de Santa Maria

Walking through this road should be a must-do activity if you are visiting Funchal. This narrow road is filled with bars and restaurants on either side and is always vibrant and lively. But what makes it unique is the door art on the doors of the houses, shops, or any buildings in this alley. This area was completely ruined due to floods and was not the same that you see now.

The “The Art of Open Doors” project started in 2014, inviting artists to unleash their creativity and make it a public art space. Hundreds of doors were painted as part of this project. This small effort turned this run-down alley into a tourist attraction. The street is definitely one of my favorite places in Funchal, and I haven’t seen a more vibrant street.

Typically, it should just take you about 15 to 20 minutes to walk past this road. Still, since it is filled with bars and restaurants, it is too difficult not to stop by to enjoy a drink at the minimum.

Walking takes about 30 minutes to reach the port.

4. Experience Dolphin and Whale Watching

If you are a fan of dolphins and whales, Madeira is an excellent place to go on a dolphin and whale watching tour. The tours start at the Marina of Funchal, close to the boat. Many species of dolphins and whales swim in the Madeiran waters; some are local to the region, and some are migratory species. Depending on the season and a little bit of luck, you will see quite some amazing varieties, some more common than others.

If you plan to go on a dolphin and whale watching tour, you should book your tour beforehand. I have written a complete guide about dolphin and whale watching in Madeira , which has everything you need to know to plan your perfect trip.

After reading countless reviews and spending many long hours on the research, we decided to take  this dolphin and whale watching experience .

The tour takes 2 hours, and you would need an additional 30 minutes for the instructions and putting on your safety jacket.

The Cruise terminal is just 15 minutes walk from the Marina, where the dolphin and whale watching tours start.

5. Ride Funchal’s Cable Car

While in Funchal, riding the cable car is a must-do. As the cable car ascends, it reveals the panoramic views of Funchal’s charming rooftops, sparkling blue coastline, and lush green landscapes. The view constantly changes from the packed rooftops of Funchal to spotting fewer and fewer houses nestled in the emerald hills on one side. On the other side, you can witness the harbor from where you started the journey vanishing into the horizon. It is just so beautiful. This cable car ride offers a unique vantage point unlike any other viewpoint.

The smaller car ensures that you are not packed among many other tourists. Usually, each car takes only 4 – 6 ideally. If you are lucky and there are fewer crowds, you could take an entire car for yourself. We were able to enjoy this on our way back down.

Good to Know!   Before purchasing your tickets, I highly recommend deciding whether you will take the cable car ride while returning.

Well, What Are the Other Options?

You could go on the famous Toboggan ride from the top, taking you halfway down. From there, you could hike down for about 20 minutes to reach Funchal or take a bus instead. (The taxi could also be an option as it is affordable too.)

Tickets for Funchal’s Cable Car

One way costs €12.50 for adults and €6.50 for a child. A round trip costs €18 per adult and €9 per child. (Deciding your return could save you some money and time from standing in any queue to purchase your return ticket on the way back.)

You can also buy your tickets online from the official website .

Opening Hours for Funchal’s Cable Car

9:00 am to 5:45 pm

One-way ride to Monte from Funchal takes 15-20 minutes. The waiting time to get into a car depends on the season and the time of the day. Also, there are some points of attractions to see at the top, so excluding that, I would set aside an hour for a round trip in the cable car.

The Cruise terminal is 30 minutes by walk from the Funchal Cable Car Station at Funchal (not including the ride from Monte).

6. Discover Paradise at the Monte Palace Tropical Garden

I am usually not a fan of botanical gardens, but this one just blew my mind and took my breath away. It is safe to say that it is one of the most beautiful botanical gardens in the world. Oh, wait! It is not just my point of view. It is indeed one of the 13 most beautiful botanical gardens to visit in the world, according to Condé Nast Traveller .

This enchanting haven atop Monte Hill offers a captivating escape into a world of exotic flora, stunning landscapes, and mesmerizing art. You can find the entrance to this garden as soon as you walk out of the cable car station in Monte. Sometimes there are two entrances, but you will be redirected to the garden’s other entrance, which is just a 100m to 200m walk from the cable car station.

Tip!  The garden has an adorable cafe very close to the entrance. It looks so beautiful and would also look super cool on your Instagram page.

Psst!   Follow me on Instagram for unique travel content and amazing pictures.

Oh, wait! Talking about Instagram made me realize that not just the cafe but the entire garden is filled with perfect photo nooks for your Gram. The garden’s centerpiece is the striking Oriental Garden , inspired by the tranquil landscapes of Eastern cultures. Serene koi ponds, pagodas, and meticulously crafted stone pathways transport you to a realm of peace and serenity.

I would just sit there and spend the whole day relaxing in the different sitting areas of the gardens, especially under the pagodas.

Tip!   If you are spending a lot of days in Madeira, I highly recommend spending a day here relaxing amidst nature if that’s your thing. Trust me, you will definitely love it.

I could keep telling you a lot about this place, but what I want to insist on is especially for cruise ship passengers who have little time in hand. Be quick here as the garden is massive, and you could keep walking and walking and lose track of time. As you explore the garden, you will be walking downwards, which means you will have to walk all the way up when you want to leave, so include some time for it.

For people who cannot walk long distances, you could also take a tour on their electric vintage car, which gives you a small tour of the garden for a price.

Good to Know!   Although you can walk around the Monte Palace, you cannot enter it.

Tickets for Monte Palace Tropical Garden

€12.50 per adult, including museum visits. Children under the age of 15 are admitted free.

Opening Hours for Monte Palace Tropical Garden

Garden Visiting Hours : 9:30 am till 6:00 pm

Museum Visiting Hours : 10:00 am till 4:30 pm

Typically 1 to 2 hours. But it mostly depends on how much you explore the place. It is even possible to spend half a day here, which we did.

The Cruise terminal is 5 mins ride away from the cable car station at Funchal. It will take around 30 minutes to go down from Monte to Funchal via cable car. You could also take a taxi directly from the Garden entrance, which should take about 20 minutes.

7. Enjoy the Botanical Garden of Madeira

If you love plants and flowers and enjoy seeing and knowing about exotic species, this is a must-visit place for you. Spread across 8 hectares, this botanical garden houses more than 2000 varieties of exotic plants. Most of the park is landscaped, and it is such a pleasant sight.

Some plants are even known to be extinct in their country of origin but are preserved here. There is also a research and conservation area to preserve the endangered species.

Opening Hours for Botanical Garden of Madeira

9:00 am to 6:00pm

How to Reach Botanical Garden of Madeira?

If you are not driving, which makes more sense if you are visiting from a cruise ship. The best way to visit this garden is to take the cable car. It could be a little confusing, but at least it was for us. So I have tried to explain it more clearly.

To reach the Botanical Garden of Madeira, you must take  2 cable cars . The first cable car goes from Funchal to Monte (where the Monte Palace Garden is located).

After getting down at Monte, you need to walk around 300m to the next cable car station, which will take you to the Botanical Gardens.

Tickets for Botanical Garden of Madeira

The entrance to the park is  €8.75  per person. But if you are not visiting by car and are taking cable cars both ways, I would recommend buying the combo ticket. It costs  €35  per person and includes all the below:

Cable car Funchal -> Monte + Cable Car Monte -> Botanical Garden + Botanical Garden Entry Fee + Return to Funchal (Both cable car rides)

(Phew! Hope it all makes sense.)

Typically 1 to 2 hours. But it mostly depends on how much you explore the place.

The Cruise terminal is 5 mins ride away from the cable car station at Funchal. It will take 30 – 45 minutes to go down from Botanical Garden to Funchal via 2 cable cars. You could also take a taxi directly from the Garden entrance, which should take around 20 minutes.

Tip!  For cruise ship passengers, I recommend getting individual one-way cable car tickets for the experience and returning via taxi to save time, as it will only take 15 minutes to reach the port from the Botanical Garden.

Pro Tip!   If you are running short of time, I recommend visiting only one of the two gardens as they could take much of your time. If you ask me to choose, I recommend visiting the Monte Palace Garden.

8. Go on a Toboggan Ride

This is a popular tourist activity and an enjoyable ride in this area. Toboggan was traditionally used as a means of transport to commute downhill. But, in recent years, it has become more like a fun ride for tourists. The sledge is made of wicker baskets, and two sledge drivers will take you on a 2 km adventure-packed ride down the hill up to Livramento, a small town located very close to Funchal.

Good to Know!

• This is a popular tourist attraction, so be prepared for crowds. You might not get to take the ride right away. The ride only takes 10 minutes.
• The ride alone won’t take you to Funchal, but only up to Livramento. Funchal’s city center is about a 2 km steep downhill walk from here, which should take around 30 minutes.
• Although taxis are affordable when you book through Bolt or Uber, since this is a popular tourist attraction, you may have to negotiate a little with the taxi drivers to get a reasonable fare.
• You could also take the public transport bus 19, which runs every hour, or there are other bus options, but the stops are a short walk from the ending point of the ride.

Price for the Toboggan Ride in Madeira

For a single person, they take €25 .

2 People per sledge costs €15 per person ( €30 in total for the ride). Only 3 people can go on a single sledge, costing the same €15 per person.

Suppose you are someone who does not want to take the cable car but wants to try the Toboggan rides. In that case, you can go for a tour that provides pick-up and drop-off from the hotel or any main location (could be next to the harbor) .

The ride takes only 10 minutes, but you can expect a considerable waiting time. It is wise to have an hour for the ride and the waiting time, excluding the time to reach the starting point.

It takes about 30 minutes to reach Funchal Center. To reach the cruise terminal, the best option would be to take a taxi which should take around 20 mins, or a bus to the center and walk to the port, which is not the most time-friendly option.

9. Explore Funchal’s Waterfront

Funchal’s waterfront, Praça do Povo, is a perfect place for people to watch and enjoy the city’s views as well as the boats and the ships on the water. You can see the city filled with houses perched on the cliff and the small boats sailing past in the water. This view always gets to me. It is so pleasant to see them all at once. The golden hour looks even more spectacular.

Do not just stop there. Continue walking along the coast towards Forte de São Tiago , which is closed. Still, the yellow fort along the shore looks wonderful, and along the way, you can see great spots from where you can enjoy the view.

There is a small viewpoint a little past the fort called the Miradouro do Socorro. It is an excellent place to relax and watch the waterfront. The church Igreja de Santa Maria Maior is opposite the viewpoint. It looks quite mysterious when it is dark and the lamps are on.

If you want to take a dip in the water, you could swim in Praia de São Tiago . As the sun goes down, you will see many people going for a swim here.

Typically, 1 hour should be sufficient to enjoy a walk along the waterfront. But it could take a bit longer if you go for a swim.

You should be able to return to the cruise in around 20 minutes. You could see your ship all the way while you were walking.

10. Visit the Sé Catedral do Funchal (Funchal Cathedral)

This cathedral, located in the old town of Funchal, was built during the 15th century and is one of the city’s significant landmarks. This catholic church displays features of the Manueline and Gothic periods. The church’s interior has a stunning altarpiece consisting of gilded wood carvings, sculptures, and oil paintings, which is also said to be an example of Mudéjar decoration based on a form of Islamic artistic tradition.

This church is definitely a must-visit; you can easily spot its tower from a distance while entering Funchal from the waters.

Typically 30 minutes. 

You should be able to return to the cruise in around 25 minutes.

Final Thoughts

It might be a little difficult to rush to all these places in a single day, especially if you must return to the cruise at a set time. Based on your interest and available time, I think you could cover most of these places and also have a fun day in Funchal.

I hope you enjoyed reading about everything you can do while docking in Funchal during your cruise ship trip. If you have more questions, feel free to reach out in the comments. I would also love to hear about your visit to Funchal. If you ever get a chance, come back to Madeira and explore the island for a much longer time. You can take a guided tour and explore some gems in northwest Madeira or east Madeira . Also, you can go on the best levada walk (25 Fontes & Risco waterfall hike) in Madeira or experience the beautiful Ponta de São Lourenço hike . Madeira is truly a paradise!

Hey, I am Kiki! A full-time software developer and hardcore travel enthusiast who is always up for a new adventure and the author of RooKiExplorers. I love to travel the world and enjoy talking about it, helping everyone around me plan their trips, and avoiding making the mistakes I made.

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Funchal, Madeira Cruise Ships Schedule

Funchal, Madeira Island cruise calendar 2024-2025 provides the opportunity to search the arrival and departure schedules of cruise ships arriving in port.  The timetable displays dates and times cruise ships are scheduled to dock in port in two separate columns for arrivals and departures with the name of the ship, cruise operator, and maximum passenger capacity.  Please note, the following cruise port schedule is created on updated itineraries from the following cruise lines: Azamara, Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Norwegian Cruise Lines, Holland America Line, Regent Seven Seas, Oceania Cruises, Marella Cruises, TUI, P&O Cruises, Aida Cruises, Costa Cruises, Princess Cruises, Cunard Line, Carnival Cruise Lines, Crystal Cruises, Disney Cruise Line, Viking and Fred Olsen Cruise Lines.

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Funchal, Madeira

All information about funchal cruise port. timetable for the arrival of ships, the time of their stay and the number of passengers. funchal port news. weather forecast and historical weather, as well as water temperatures around funchal..

Funchal: tourist information

Funchal city is the capital and owes its name to the plant called "funcho". This plant existed in abundance in this area. Sweets are still made from this plant today. The category of city was granted by King Manuel I, on 21 August, 1508.

It's a city of white rows of houses that climb up the hills, like an amphitheatre around a beautiful bay of blue sea. This architectonic distribution, due to the region's rugged and high terrain, covers itself with special beauty to bring in the New Year, since it makes it possible to put on a fireworks display of rare beauty and present a unique festive illumination for the season. Funchal's port is the entry door for many cruise ships as well as for the loading and unloading of goods shipped by sea. The city is divided into three principal areas: on the west side, we have the tourist area where we find most of the hotels; on the east side, the so-called "Zona Velha" or "Cidade Velha" (Old Zone or Old Town), where old constructions predominate, some of them having been transformed into typical restaurants; and the central part, where a great part of the commerce and characteristic monuments are found.

• Country: Portugal
• Capital: Lisbon
• Government: Portugal
• State/Region: Madeira Islands
• Time Zone: 0 GMT
• Language: Portuguese
• Latitude: 32.6333333
• Longitude: -16.9000000
• Est. Population: 111892
• Currency: Euro
• Fire: Phone: 112
• Police: Phone: 112
• Hospital: Hospital Distrital do Funchal - Phone: 291 74 48 29
• Ambulance & Rescue: Phone: 115

Funchal Cruise Port Schedule

Funchal in the News

• Mar 15, 2024 TUI Cruises deploys two ships (Schiff 7 and Schiff Relax) to Canary Islands in winter 2025-2026 TUI Cruises, a TUI Group-Royal Caribbean Group joint venture, has announced its planned itinerari...
• Feb 23, 2024 MSC introduces winter 2024-2025 Canary Islands cruises on MSC Opera ship MSC Cruises has announced the deployment of MSC Opera to the Canary Islands for the winter season...
• Jan 1, 2024 Cruise ships welcome 27,000 spectators for Funchal's New Year's Eve fireworks As the New Year's Eve fireworks spectacle in Funchal (Madeira Island Portugal) unfolds, a crowd o...
• Dec 19, 2023 Costa Cruises launches 19 voyages for Christmas and New Year 2023-2024 Costa Cruises, the leading cruise line in Europe, announced that it will offer 19 cruises for Chr...
• Nov 18, 2023 Fred Olsen’s cruise fleet unites for Funchal Madeira celebrations The convergence of Fred Olsen Cruise Lines' 3-ship fleet (Bolette, Borealis, Balmoral) in Portuga...
• Nov 6, 2023 SAGA's Spirit of Adventure ship forced to divert to Cornwall due to Storm Ciaran Last week, adverse weather conditions associated with Storm Ciaran forced the SAGA UK's ship Spir...
• Nov 1, 2023 Port Funchal (Madeira) receives 3 cruise ships on a single day Port Funchal (Madeira Island Portugal) accommodated 3 cruise ships on Monday, October 30. This ar...
• Oct 13, 2023 Fred Olsen Cruise Lines in the Caribbean after 3+ years with Borealis ship Guests aboard Fred Olsen Cruise Lines' ship Borealis, on her inaugural voyage to the Caribbean, w...
• Sep 18, 2023 Fred Olsen prepares for Fleet in Funchal event  Fred Olsen Cruise Lines is preparing to celebrate a “historic coming together&...
• Jun 23, 2023 Costa Cruises unveils new National Geographic excursions Costa Cruises has announced that it will provide 10x National Geographic /Nat Geo day tours this ...
• Jun 16, 2023 Jay Leno christens CCL's Italian-themed ship Carnival Venezia Renowned late-night talk show host and comedian Jay Leno was honored as he participated in the vi...
• May 27, 2023 Royal Caribbean Cancels Port Due to Weather Conditions In an unfortunate turn of events for guests onboard Anthem of the Seas, the ship was forced to ca...
• May 16, 2023 Windstar releases cruise schedule through summer 2025 The Xanterra Parks & Resorts-owned ultra-premium cruise line Windstar announced its depl...
• Apr 29, 2023 Carnival Cruise Ship Begins Dry Dock for Makeover and Upgrades Carnival Pride has arrived at its scheduled dry dock in Cadiz after completing her transatlantic ...
• Mar 26, 2023 Speed Issues Change Multiple Itineraries for Royal Caribbean Ship Royal Caribbean International has reached out to guests on multiple sailings of Anthem of the Sea...

Port rating and occupancy

Port of Funchal ranks 843th in the world in terms of the number of tourists visiting it.

Number of cruise ship calls in the coming year: 0 .

The total number of tourists (passengers) of cruise ships in the port of Funchal in the next 12 months is 0 .

According to the popularity rating among more than 1,000 cruise ports in the world , Funchal ranks 27.

Weather in Funchal

Current water temperature in Funchal now is 68°F (20.1°C)

Water temperature data provided by seatemperature.net .

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Funchal last position

Funchal last location was at North East Atlantic Ocean (coordinates 38.75024 N / -9.09297 W) cruising The AIS position was reported 4 years ago.

Specifications of Funchal

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The 1961-built MV Funchal cruise ship was designed by Rogerio d'Oliveira (Portuguese naval engineer) and until 2021 was operated by the company Portuscale Cruises. Previously, the boat was owned by one of the richest families in the Azores.

The vessel (IMO number 5124162) is currently Portugal/Madeira- flagged (MMSI 255971000) and registered in Funchal .

History - construction and ownership

In 2013, Rui Alegre (Portuguese entrepreneur) bought the boat from Classic International Cruises, along with three other ships - Princess Danae (Lisboa) , Athena (Azores/Astoria) and Arion (Porto) . With these liners, he established the company Portuscale Cruises ( Lisbon -based)

Following the acquisition, MS Funchal was extensively drydock-refurbished in Lisbon (at Naval Rocha shipyards) and upgraded to a 4-star passenger vessel at the cost of nearly EUR 10 million. The hull was repainted black (its original color).

MS Funchal is a classic-design ocean liner, and sadly - among the last remaining cruise ships of the once-great fleet of Portuguese passenger ships. The vessel has been operated by the Portuscale cruise line since the beginning of 2013. The ship was constructed in 1961, under the guidance of the naval engineer Rogerio d'Oliveira. Its features include air-conditioning, full stabilization, three lifts, piano bar, main show lounge, Lido bar, club room, library, card room, shops. The Funchal ship also served as a presidential yacht owned by one of the wealthiest families in the Azores.

In August 2013, MV Funchal left the drydock to arrive on August 27 in Gothenburg (Sweden) , starting a new career. However, on August 28, the ship was not released from Goteborg's harbor due to security issues (officially denied by Portuscale Cruises). On September 2, 2013, the issues were resolved, certifications granted, and the ship left Port Goteborg heading to Scotland.

On December 5, 2018, via bank auction, the vessel was sold (for EUR 3,91 million / USD 4,45 million). This news also meant that the ship will not be scrapped. Soon was reported that the liner was acquired by the Liverpool hotel operator Signature Living to start a new life as a hotel ship in Central London . At the auction, Signature Living was represented by QPS Marine Ships (Florida USA-based cruise vessel purchase finance firm). In the auction were represented all 4 bidders. Signature Living via QPS Marine Ships negotiated for nearly 2 years with the bankruptcy administrator for purchasing the vessel. QPS Marine Ships also acted as a consultant in the liner's repositioning and management during the conversion project (to a hotel ship).

In the period 2015-2018, both Portuscale Cruises ships (Funchal and Porto) were laid up at Port Lisbon. The company's only operational ship (Azores) was chartered to CMV-Cruise and Maritime Voyages and renamed Astoria .

In 2019, the cruise liner received GBP 4 million drydock refit and refurbishment . New amenities following the refurb include a dedicated concierge team (dedicated to timetable service at onboard parties) and exclusive entertainment - El Teatro's (fiesta), Champagne Charlies Brunch At Sea (party), world-famous DJs, theatrical performances, Alma De Cuba (carnival-style dance performers), percussionists.

You can read the cruise ship's detailed history in its Wiki section .

Decks and Cabins

MS Funchal ship accommodates just 524 passengers and has updated Suites, Mini-Suites, Staterooms and Cabins. All accommodations are beautifully fitted out and contain the latest facilities.

Following drydock 2019, the boat now has max capacity 632 berths. Room options include ocean views, double and single cabins, one Presidential Suite (capacity 4 passengers). The largest combo cabins accommodate 16 passengers and feature a private sundeck (with an outdoor Jacuzzi) and butler-served breakfast.

The boat has 7 passenger decks , of which 6 are passenger-accessible and with cabins.

Shipboard facilities and activities

MV Funchal offers her passengers two fine Dining Rooms located on Azores Deck. One of these is The Coimbra, an intimate restaurant located on the starboard side, aft of the Main Lobby. The spacious Lisboa stretches right across the liner and is accessible from the aft Lobby or amidships stairwell and lift.

What is significant in MS Funchal is its design - a combination of a beautiful ocean liner and fascinating interior. The beautiful shape of this classic cruise liner offers a yacht-like atmosphere to its passengers. Funchal's crew members are highly trained and dedicated to their work. Most of them are Portuguese and have been sailing with the ship for more than 20 years. Passengers are loyal and come back on board the ship again and again.

The features of Funchal include stabilization, three lifts, air-conditioning, a Main Show Lounge called Ilha Verde, Porto Bar (piano bar), Lido Bar, Excursion Office, Medical Centre, Reception with exchange facilities, Club Room, Casino, Card Room, Library, Teen Room, Internet Cafe, Gym, Wellness & Beauty Center, Sauna or Hammam, Photographer & PhotoShop, Shopping Arcade, Laundry and Internet Service.

Activities for young travelers on offer include a treasure hunt, painting, collage, and fun at the Teen Room, specifically intended for adults and teens interactions. Following a sophisticated dinner at Coimbra or Lisboa restaurant, passengers can have a fine coffee while listening to live piano music at Porto Bar or enjoy Havana Bar while watching the show performed by international casts of musicians, singers and dancers.

Cellar, tastings, workshops, and contests help passengers develop and further their knowledge of wine. The cruise line offers a wide choice of nectars in the cellar, produced in well-renowned wineries from recognized castes by popular winemakers.

Itineraries

MV Funchal was an example of a classic ocean liner cruising around the world. Ship's routes and destinations included South America, Arctic Circle, Norwegian Fjords, Atlantic Islands, Mediterranean, Black Sea, Red Sea, Australia-New Zealand, Far East Asia.

In late-December 2018, the new shipowner Signature Living revealed an ambitious refurbishment project for converting the cruise liner into a luxury party hotel ship. The vessel will be homeported in Liverpool , from where will be operated roundtrip cruises to popular Spanish port destinations in the Mediterranean, including Ibiza Town , Palma (Mallorca Island) , Malaga , Puerto Banus (Marbella) . The ship's Maiden Voyage was planned for Spring 2020. The onboard experience features gourmet dining and superior bar service (via a partnership with Alma De Cuba), 5-star hotel rooms and amenities, live entertainment and beach-style deck parties (with guest BBQs and DJ performances).

Funchal - user reviews and comments

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Funchal Wiki

MS Funchal was designed in Portugal but originally it was hoped by the Portuguese that it would be constructed in Portugal. However, in due course, the shipbuilding contract was given to Elsinore Shipyards (Helsingor, Denmark) for the reason they offered to build the ship for about GBP 2 million - excellent value for the time and far better than the Portuguese were able to offer.

Vessel's keel was laid in July 1960. The entire project came under the guidance of Portuguese naval engineer Rogerio d'Oliveira. The vessel was launched (floated out from drydock) on February 10, 1961. The powerplant was based on two Parsons Steam Turbines, driving double reduction gear and two screws.

On October 10, 1961, during sea trials, the ship managed a top speed of 23 knots (43 kph / 27 mph), with a designed service speed of 20 knots (37 kph / 23 mph). However, later the boilers became a problem and the powerplant was re-engined to diesel engines. An interesting fact is that the vessel was the largest constructed in Helsingor, as well as the largest passenger ship built in Denmark since WW2 (1939-1945).

Just like most passenger liners of its time, the ship carried cargo in 3 holds (1 aft, 2 forward). Among the cargoes were cars, fruits, general cargo, also mail. The ship had all 4 refrigerated compartments. Because of the ship's long design, it always looked bigger than its actual size (153 m). The cruise ship was initially designed with max passenger capacity 400, accommodated in 3 classes - 80 (First-Class), 156 (Tourist-A) and 164 (Tourist-B). Tourist-A and First Class areas were on Promenade Deck, while Tourist-B lounge was aft on B-Deck. The liner featured a spiral staircase (of polished metal and glass) held up by a 4-deck high polished timber column.

The beautifully designed liner was delivered on October 19, 1961, in Lisbon , from where left off the inaugural cruise (maiden voyage) to St Michael’s Island (aka Fort Island / Isle of Man ) and Madeira , departing from Lisbon on November 4, 1961. SS Funchal continued the Madeira service until 1966. Soon cruises were extended to Canary Islands (through 1969) operated with roundtrip Southampton departures to Tenerife in October-November.

On various occasions, the cruise ship was state-chartered as Presidential Yacht. In February 1968, Portugal's President cruised to the islands Azores, Madeira, Cape Verde, Guiney and Brazil on SS Funchal. In 1972, he cruised to Rio de Janeiro to participate in Brazil's 150th-anniversary celebrations. During the cruise, Funchal suffered boiler problems. Certain repairs were made at sea (during the Transatlantic crossing from Portugal) and further repairs were made in Rio. After several roundtrips from Lisbon, the vessel was drydocked in Amsterdam where the steam turbines were removed and replaced with two “Werkspoor” diesel engines (9-cylinder, combined power output 7,46 MW). During the 8-months long drydock refit , a new top-deck section was also added (forward of the funnel) and the aft decks were extended. Following the refi were scheduled sea trails (May 1973) and the ship managed a max speed 18 knots (33 kph) and service speed 16 knots (30 kph). The reconstructed liner was delivered in June, when did several cruises from homeports Zeebrugge (Belgium) and Dover (England) to Canaries (Tenerife), Madeira and Cape Verde Islands .

In December 1973, the cruise ship was repositioned to Rio de Janeiro for cruises along South America's coast. In 1976, the Greek shipping magnate George Potamianos (whose family founded Epirotiki Line) chartered Funchal for a series of private cruises. In 1985, he decided to buy the liner for his Arcalia Shipping Company Ltd. With this was founded Classic International Cruises (1985-2012 defunct) via “Great Warwick Inc” (a joint venture between two families - Potamianos (Lisbon-based) and Fritidskryss (Sweden). The vessel was purchased from its original Portuguese shipowner Cia Portuguesa de Transportes Maritimos (CPTM) liquidated in 1985.

Funchal was re- flagged from Madeira to Panama, and manned by Portuguese and Swedish crew. For Classic International Cruises, during summer the ship was homeported in Harwich , while the winter months was cruising in South America leaving from Brazilian ports.

The 1989-1990 drydock refit also added two fully enclosed tender boats. In 1993, Azores Deck (aft) was extended to a Lido Deck (with ample sunbathing area). Boat Deck (aft) was also extended. In 1997, the cruise ship was refitted to comply with IMO's SOLAS regulations, which also required the replacement of all timbers with fire retardant materials. The spiral staircase was partially enclosed, 4 lifeboats were removed (midship) and replaced by the new tenders. The ship was again re-flagged to Madeira.

In 2004, Funchal was repositioned from Europe to Australia (Harwich to Fremantle-Perth . During drydock 2010, the ship was extensively refurbished and new cabins were added. Several Promenade Deck staterooms were removed to making room for Club Lounge. In 2011 the ship returned to Lisbon for a massive refit (including internal rebuilding) to ensure at least 20+ more years of service. By April 2012, all works were stopped (with less than 10% completion) after George Petros Potamianos died. The company Classic International Cruises was liquidated in December 2012.

In early-2013, Portuguese hotel and resort entrepreneur Rui Alegre purchased MV Funchal together with 3 other ships, but only Funchal kept its name. The new company (Portuscale Cruises) invested USD 13 million in Funchal's rebuilding (in Lisbon) in order to pass the updated SOLAS regulations.

In late-October 2019, the vessel was towed to Liverpool . According to Signature Living's latest plans, the liner will not operate cruises but instead will be permanently docked/berthed in the UK and serving as "party hotel ship".