Madeira Achadas Cruz, Porto Moniz, Seixal for Cruise Ship

Madeira Achadas Cruz, Porto Moniz, Seixal for Cruise Ship – A Deep Dive into the Island’s Natural Beauty

If you’re cruising into Funchal and want to make the most of a half-day adventure, this Madeira tour offers a fantastic mix of thrill, scenery, and local flavor. For about $73, you’ll visit Achadas da Cruz, ride Europe’s steepest cable car, cool off in Porto Moniz’s natural sea pools, and marvel at the black sand beaches of Seixal. With a duration of roughly 5 hours, it’s designed for cruise passengers eager to see Madeira’s best without missing the ship’s departure.

What we love most about this tour is how it combines adventure with authentic landscapes—the cable car ride alone promises a memorable descent with a gradient of 98%, giving you a real adrenaline rush. Plus, finishing off with a local Poncha or a cold beer** adds a genuine touch of Madeira’s laid-back vibe.

One consideration is the weather’s unpredictability, which can affect the cable car operation or access to some spots. It’s wise to check the forecast and be flexible if needed. This trip suits travelers who appreciate stunning vistas, small-group intimacy, and a mix of active and relaxing experiences. It’s especially perfect for cruise visitors who want a well-rounded taste of Madeira in a manageable time frame.

Key Points

• Breathtaking Cable Car Ride: Europe’s steepest cable car offers a thrilling descent with incredible views.
• Natural Sea Pools: Porto Moniz’s volcanic pools provide a refreshing and scenic swim experience.
• Stunning Black Sand Beaches: Seixal’s beach, with waterfalls and sea views, is a photographer’s paradise.
• Inclusive and Well-Structured: Transportation, entrance fees, and local drinks make it easy and enjoyable.
• Small Group Experience: Max 8 travelers ensures personal attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Flexible Cancellation: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind.

An In-Depth Look: A Day of Highlights on Madeira

Starting Strong: The Cable Car at Achadas da Cruz

We begin our adventure at Cais de Cruzeiros in Funchal, where a friendly guide picks us up. The highlight here is the 600-meter downhill cable car journey—the steepest in Europe. Standing in the cable car, with its 98% gradient, you’re immediately aware that this isn’t your average ride. It’s a thrill that offers spectacular panoramic views over the rugged coastline and lush landscape.

The admission to the cable car is included, which adds great value to the trip. As you glide downward, you’ll notice the contrast between the steep cliffs and the cultivated terraces. It’s a chance to see how Madeira’s farmers have carved out a living on the steep slopes, a reminder of the island’s resilience and ingenuity.

Porto Moniz Natural Sea Pools – A Refreshing Escape

Next, we head to Porto Moniz, renowned for its volcanic natural swimming pools. These pools, formed from black volcanic rocks, create a series of safe, shallow spots to splash around or just relax. The admission fee isn’t included, but most visitors agree it’s worth paying for the chance to cool off and swim in crystal-clear waters.

What makes Porto Moniz special isn’t just the pools themselves but their setting against the rugged coastline. The backdrop of black volcanic rocks and the Atlantic waves crashing in creates a uniquely dramatic scene. Many visitors mention enjoying stunning views and feeling immersed in nature’s raw power.

Seixal’s Black Sand Beach – Perfect for Photos and Relaxation

From Porto Moniz, we make a quick stop at Praia do Porto do Seixal—a black sand beach that’s become a favorite on Instagram. It’s a tranquil spot, framed by waterfalls and lush greenery. The cascading waterfalls add a touch of magic, making it a perfect place for photos or a gentle walk along the shoreline.

This stop is relatively short, about 30 minutes, giving enough time to breathe in the fresh sea air and snap some pictures of the stunning landscape. Many travelers find this beach peaceful and picturesque, ideal for a quick break before heading back to Funchal.

What’s Included and What to Keep in Mind

This tour offers good value, with transportation, cable car entrance, local guide, and refreshments included. The small group size (up to 8 travelers) creates an intimate atmosphere, letting you ask plenty of questions and enjoy the experience at a relaxed pace.

The price of $73.29 might seem high for a half-day, but when you consider the adventure, scenic views, and local touches like Poncha (a traditional punch), it feels like a fair deal. The included transportation from Funchal eliminates worries about parking or navigating the island independently.

However, keep in mind that some attractions, like Porto Moniz’s pools, require an additional entrance fee of 3 euros per person, which isn’t included. Also, weather can disrupt the cable car or outdoor stops, so flexibility is key. The tour company recommends checking weather forecasts and being prepared for possible changes.

The Guide and the Experience

According to reviews, Richard (the tour guide) is a highlight—super friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive. His knack for timing visits to avoid crowds means you get to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed. Many travelers mention that the guide’s enthusiasm and local insights add significant value, making the trip more than just a sightseeing run.

The stunning vistas at each location—from the cliffs of Achadas da Cruz to the volcanic pools and black sand beaches—are what make this tour memorable. Travelers often mention how the views are simply breathtaking, and the chance to see Madeira’s rugged landscape up close is worth every euro.

Plus, the local Poncha or soft drinks give a nice touch of authenticity, allowing you to toast Madeira’s hearty spirit. Coffee breaks, included in the package, are small but appreciated moments of relaxation.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for cruise travelers wanting to maximize their time and see some of Madeira’s top sights without the hassle of planning. It suits those who love active outdoor experiences, like riding Europe’s steepest cable car, but also want to have time to relax and take in the scenery.

If you’re a photography enthusiast, the variety of landscapes—from rugged cliffs, volcanic pools, to black sand beaches—offers endless opportunities. Travelers who appreciate local culture and natural beauty will find this tour both enjoyable and rewarding.

However, if you’re sensitive to weather changes or prefer not to move around outdoors in unpredictable conditions, it’s worth noting that some stops could be shortened or altered.

The Sum Up

For cruise ship visitors eager to squeeze in a half-day of Madeira’s most iconic sights, this tour hits the mark. It balances adventure and relaxation, with stunning views at every turn and knowledgeable guides to enrich your experience. The small group size ensures personalized attention, making it feel like a private outing.

The combination of Europe’s steepest cable car, natural volcanic pools, and black sand beaches provides a truly authentic taste of Madeira’s natural wonders. Plus, the inclusion of local drinks and a friendly guide makes it feel like a genuine introduction to the island’s spirit.

While weather can be a wild card, the flexible cancellation policy offers peace of mind. This tour is perfect for photo lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and those craving a scenic, active escape before returning to the cruise ship.

If you’re looking for a well-organized, scenic, and fun way to experience Madeira’s highlights in a manageable time, this tour deserves your consideration.

FAQs

Is transportation from Funchal Port included?
Yes, transportation is provided from the cruise ship port to the tour start point and back, making it easy to join without extra hassle.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately 5 hours, including travel time and sightseeing stops.

What’s the best part of the tour?
Many find the cable car ride and the stunning views at each stop to be the most memorable parts.

Are entrance fees included?
The cable car fee is included, but Porto Moniz’s natural pools require a small optional entrance fee of 3 euros per person.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and poor weather may lead to rescheduling or full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers of all ages can participate, but keep in mind the steep cable car could be a concern for very young children or those with mobility issues.

How many people will be on the tour?
The group size is limited to 8 travelers for a more personal experience.

Do I need to prepare anything?
Bring a camera, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes. Remember that weather can change quickly in Madeira, so layered clothing is advisable.

What should I expect at each stop?
Expect breathtaking landscapes, opportunities for photos, and a chance to cool off in Porto Moniz, all with plenty of time to enjoy each location.

Is food included?
No, but the tour includes a local Poncha or soft drink and a coffee. Lunch is not included, so plan accordingly.

This tour offers a nicely balanced mix of adventure, scenery, and local flavor, making it a top choice for cruise travelers eager to see Madeira’s natural beauty with ease and comfort.