Traveling from Madeira to the island of Porto Santo is a great way to add a little variety to your holiday. This one-day cruise offers a combination of relaxed ferry crossings, scenic drives, and authentic views of a lesser-visited Portuguese island. We’ve looked into this tour carefully, and what stands out most is the opportunity to see a 9-kilometer sandy beach, take in panoramic vistas from scenic lookouts, and experience the local vibe beyond the usual tourist spots.
What we love about this experience is the effortless organization — from hotel pickup to the smooth ferry ride. The guided tour is detailed enough to keep you informed without feeling rushed, and the free time in Porto Santo allows for a relaxed exploration. However, a potential consideration is the ferry crossing — it’s a quick trip, but if you’re prone to motion sickness, you might want to prepare accordingly. This tour suits travelers craving a day trip with scenic highlights, especially those eager to discover a quieter side of Portugal’s Atlantic islands.
Key Points
- Comfortable transportation with hotel pickup and ferry crossings included
- Balanced mix of guided sightseeing and free time in Porto Santo
- Breathtaking views from lookouts like Miradouro da Portela
- Authentic experience of local life and landscapes
- Ideal for travelers with limited time looking for a scenic, relaxed day
- Note: No meals included, so plan accordingly
An Overview of the Tour Experience
The adventure begins in Funchal, where your day kicks off with a pickup from select hotels. This makes the start hassle-free for travelers staying in the city, and you’ll quickly move on to the ferry terminal for the crossing to Porto Santo. The ferry ride itself is a highlight — a relaxed, scenic crossing with plenty of seating, as one reviewer mentioned, making it a smooth start to the day.
Once on the island, a vehicle (minibus or bus) awaits, depending on the group size. The guided tour takes about 2.5 to 3.5 hours, offering insights into Porto Santo’s history, culture, and natural landmarks. We loved the way the guide shared local stories, making the landscapes feel more personal. The stops include viewpoints like Miradouro da Portela — a site that provides breathtaking vistas over the bay and mountains. Expect to see the famous 9-kilometer beach, which is the hallmark feature of the island’s landscape, and perhaps the quaint Casa da Serra and Quinta das Palmeiras gardens and zoo, adding a touch of local life and flora.
After the guided portion, you’ll have around 4 to 5 hours of free time. Reviewers share they explored the old town, enjoyed local eateries, or simply relaxed on the beach. One traveler noted that they visited the CR7 Museum before heading to the ferry, adding a fun local twist for football fans. The flexibility of the free time allows you to soak in the relaxed pace of Porto Santo, a stark contrast to busier tourist spots.
The return ferry trip is, as expected, a gentle sail back to Madeira, completing a full day of scenic highlights and authentic experiences. The tour balances guided insights with personal exploration, making it suitable for those who appreciate some structure but want plenty of leisure.
Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Funchal
The Highlights in Detail
Cross to Porto Santo by Ferry
The ferry from Funchal to Porto Santo is regarded as a relaxing and straightforward crossing. One review mentions that the ferry had enough free seats, which is good for those who might prefer to sit outside or find a quiet spot. The ferry ride is approximately an hour and a half, providing a comfortable break from land-based touring. If you’re prone to motion sickness, the reviews suggest that taking medication beforehand can make the experience much more enjoyable, especially since pharmacies in Porto Santo are reportedly limited in their options for motion sickness remedies.
Scenic Drives and Lookouts
The guided tour is a highlight for many. The driver is knowledgeable, sharing interesting facts about the island’s inhabitants and landscape. Some of the most memorable stops include Pico do Castelo, the highest point offering sweeping views, and the Miradouro da Portela, a lookout offering panoramic scenes of the coast and surrounding mountains. From these vantage points, you’ll understand why Porto Santo’s natural beauty has been a draw for centuries.
More Great Tours NearbyThe 9-Kilometer Beach
Porto Santo’s famous sandy beach is visible from many viewpoints and is often praised for its golden sands and calm waters. It’s an ideal spot for a quick walk, photos, or just soaking up the sun during your free time. Though no swimming is officially part of the tour, many visitors find the beaches inviting enough for a quick dip or relaxing stroll.
Like being on the water? We've looked at these other boat experiences in Funchal
Local Life and Authenticity
Unlike some more commercialized spots, Porto Santo feels more laid-back and authentic. You’ll see locals going about their daily routines, and the small town vibe is palpable in the old streets and local cafes. One reviewer enjoyed walking around the old town, noting the charm of the area and the affordability of a meal or snack.
The Return and Flexibility
The ferry back to Madeira is well-organized, with travelers praising how smoothly everything runs. The flexible timing of free exploration allows for a personalized experience, whether that’s shopping for souvenirs, relaxing on the beach, or grabbing a bite to eat.
Practical Details: What You Need to Know
Transportation and Group Size
The tour includes hotel pickup (from select locations), making the start seamless. The vehicle used for the island tour is comfortable, whether a minibus or bus, based on the group size. This personalized touch ensures you get a more intimate experience, with your guide able to share detailed insights.
Duration and Timing
The entire day lasts roughly 8 hours, with the ferry crossing taking about 1.5 hours each way. The start times vary, so it’s important to check availability when booking. Keep in mind that the guided tour itself is about 2.5 to 3.5 hours, leaving a generous chunk of the day for free exploration.
Cost and Value
While the tour does not include meals, the overall value comes from the combination of transport, guided insights, and scenic stops. The experience offers a balanced mix of structure and leisure, all within a reasonably priced package.
What to Bring
- Passport or ID card (for ferry formalities)
- Sun protection, water, and comfortable shoes are advisable given the outdoor nature of the tour
- If prone to motion sickness, consider medication — reviews highlight how important this is to enjoy the ferry ride comfortably
Authentic Experiences and Hidden Gems
One of the best parts of this tour is the chance to see Porto Santo through the eyes of locals. The guide’s commentary enriches the experience, sharing stories and facts that you wouldn’t get just wandering alone. The viewpoint stops provide photo opportunities of stunning landscapes that are often missed in larger, more commercial tours.
Several reviewers mention how relaxed and well-organized the day was, with plenty of time to enjoy the sights or relax on the beach. The fact that the tour is small enough to feel intimate but big enough to ensure all major sights are covered makes it particularly appealing.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This tour is ideal for those with limited time in Madeira who want to explore beyond Funchal. It’s perfect for travelers seeking scenic views and local flavor without extensive planning. Families, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate a comfortable, well-organized trip will find it appealing.
However, if you’re a beach lover or want to spend more time swimming and lounging, you might find the free time a bit limited. Likewise, those prone to motion sickness should prepare accordingly, as the ferry crossing, while short, can be uncomfortable for some.
The Sum Up
The From Funchal: Porto Santo 1-Day Cruise and Tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of a quieter, scenic Portuguese island. With relaxing ferry rides, a knowledgeable guide, panoramic lookouts, and ample free time, it’s a smart choice for travelers wanting a blend of guided sightseeing and personal exploration.
If you enjoy stunning vistas, authentic local scenes, and a laid-back pace, this tour provides excellent value — especially considering the included ferry and guided portion. It’s best suited for those with a day to spare in Madeira, craving fresh air, scenic beauty, and a break from typical city sightseeing.
For travelers wanting a convenient, scenic, and authentic island day trip, this tour hits the right notes. Just remember to plan for the ferry, bring some motion sickness remedies if needed, and enjoy the breathtaking views that Porto Santo has to offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, free pickup from select hotels in Funchal and the surrounding area is included.
How long is the ferry ride?
The ferry crossing from Funchal to Porto Santo takes roughly an hour and a half each way, making it a relaxing start and end to your day.
Do I need to bring my passport?
Yes, a passport or ID card is required for the ferry crossing and formalities.
What is the duration of the guided tour?
The guided part of the tour lasts about 2.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on the group and schedule.
Is there free time to explore Porto Santo?
Yes, after the guided tour, you have approximately 4–5 hours for personal exploration, beach time, or dining.
Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, so plan to bring snacks or purchase food during your free time.
What are the main sights visited during the tour?
Highlights include scenic lookouts like Miradouro da Portela, Pico do Castelo, the 9 km beach, and local spots like Casa da Serra and Quinta das Palmeiras.
Will I see authentic local life?
Yes, the tour offers a glimpse into everyday life in Porto Santo, beyond the usual tourist areas.
Is this tour suitable for families?
Absolutely, especially for those who enjoy scenic drives and free time. Just be aware of the ferry crossing if anyone in your group is sensitive to motion sickness.
What should I bring along?
Bring sun protection, water, comfortable shoes, and ID. If you have motion sickness, consider medication for the ferry ride.
Exploring Porto Santo on this day trip mixes scenic beauty, cultural insights, and a laid-back island vibe. It’s a worthwhile addition for anyone wanting to step beyond Madeira’s main island and discover a quiet corner of Portugal’s Atlantic archipelago.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Evening Experiences in Funchal
More Tours in Funchal
More Tour Reviews in Funchal
Still browsing? Here are more Funchal experiences we've covered recently
- From Funchal: Ponta de São Lourenço/Caniçal Full-Day Hike
- Madeira: Private Romantic Jeep Tour & Secret Picnic for Two
- Funchal Agriculture Green Tour
- Madeira: Sunset Cruise With a Swim and Drink
- Funchal – Christmas Lights By TukTuk (1h)
- Cabo Girão, Seixal, Porto Moniz & more Full Day + PickUp
- Funchal: Transfer to PR1 Pico do Arieiro & Pico Ruivo Trail
- Madeira: Intermediate Canyoning Tour – Small Groups Only
- Funchal: Portuguese Wine Tasting with Sommelier
- From Funchal: Madeira Lakes Levada Guided Hike
- From Funchal: Guided Tour to Desertas Islands
- Funchal: Pico do Arieiro Sunrise Hiking Transfer