Madeira from a Cruise Ship: How to See the Island in 4 Hours

Most cruise ships dock in Funchal for 6–10 hours. That's not a lot — but with a private driver who knows the island, it's enough to see far more than the ship's group tours will let you.

Below are three realistic itineraries I run regularly for cruise passengers, based on your time in port.

Stay close to Funchal. Cable car up to Monte, wicker toboggan down, then drive to Cabo Girão for the skywalk and back through Câmara de Lobos for a poncha. Time to spare at the cruise terminal for shopping.

The classic east-west day. Pickup at the terminal, drive west to Cabo Girão, Câmara de Lobos and Ribeira Brava. Cross to the north via Encumeada and visit Seixal's black-sand beach. Return via the inland road. You'll be back on board with 30 minutes to spare before all-aboard.

The full island. Add Porto Moniz (volcanic pools), Fanal forest and a quick stop at Pico do Areeiro (weather permitting) for the view above the clouds. This is the day most cruise passengers wish they had booked.