Funchal Porto Santo ferry

Funchal Guide

Funchal Ferry Port

Tucked away in a crescent shaped valley on the warm southern coast of the autonomous Portuguese region of Madeira lies the picturesque capital of Funchal, a historic city built almost entirely upon the gradual slopes that lead up from the North Atlantic coast towards the island’s inland mountains. For ferry-goers entering the port it’s an impressive sight. Tiers of orange-roofed houses sit stark against the backdrop of verdant woodland that covers the hillside, and winding streets climb to the highest reaches of the city where panoramic views of the azure bay are enough to take the breath away. Funchal is a particularly popular destination during New Year’s Eve. Each year the city hosts a firework display along the promenade, an impressive spectacle that was awarded a Guinness World Record in 2006 for being the biggest ever show of its kind. The port of Funchal, centrally located on the shores of the city, is a major gateway for those visiting the island. A modern passenger terminal sits at the end of a long pier, just a short walking distance from the city centre. Taxis are available to take passengers between Funchal and the harbour side and bus stops can be found at regular intervals along the main Avenida Do Mar road that feeds into the port. Currently only one route operates from the port. A Porto Santo line ferry sails the short distance northwards to the smaller Madeiran island of Porto Santo.

Porto Santo Guide

Porto Santo Ferry Port

Situated in the North Atlantic Ocean, Porto Santo is a Portuguese Island laying 43 kilometres northeast of Madeira. The only ferry route departing the port is to Funchal lasting just over two hours and is supplied by Porto Santo Line.

What is there to do in Porto Santo?

For anyone who enjoys a spot of sunbathing, Porto Santo is the perfect holiday destination. The entire island is basically just one long beach, with hotels, bars and restaurants dotted along the coastline. The relative lack of attractions means the island is often overlooked in terms of tourism, making it the perfect place to escape the stress of modern day life and while away the hours under the scorching sun. The incredibly tranquil atmosphere and empty beaches may suggest an island with nothing to do, though there is enough to keep you entertained for more than a few days. The golf course is highly regarded and for a more leisurely afternoon, copious challenging walking trails decorate the landscape, affording wonderful views of the surrounding mountainside. After a long day in the unrelenting heat, enjoy some of the local cuisine at the fine quality restaurants, usually serving seafood as the day’s speciality.

How do you get around Porto Santo?

The island is small enough to be covered entirely by foot, which is the most common option due to the close proximity of the resorts and restaurants.