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Step aboard the Santa Maria de Colombo in Funchal with Madeira Happy Tours for a maritime journey that combines historic craftsmanship, ocean wildlife, and refreshing swim stops along Madeira’s dramatic coastline.
Step aboard the Santa Maria de Colombo in Funchal with Madeira Happy Tours for a maritime journey that combines historic craftsmanship, ocean wildlife, and refreshing swim stops along Madeira’s dramatic coastline.
Book with Madeira Happy Tours
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Madeira Happy Tours · Funchal, Madeira
Off the southern coast of Madeira, Portugal, the vibrant city of Funchal acts as the gateway to a maritime adventure unlike any other. Madeira Happy Tours offers a singular journey aboard the Santa Maria de Colombo, an impressively crafted replica of Christopher Columbus’s famous 15th-century flagship. This wooden galleon, built by local artisans using traditional techniques, is more than a tourist vessel—it’s a floating piece of history bringing the Age of Discovery to life.
As the Santa Maria cuts through the Atlantic waters, travelers encounter the Atlantic Ocean's diverse marine life, including the chance to spot bottlenose dolphins and pilot whales. The tour's rhythm is leisurely but engaging, featuring swimming stops in secluded coves where the crystalline waters invite relaxation and rejuvenation. Unlike crowded cruise ships, Madeira Happy Tours delivers intimate encounters with the sea and the island’s natural surroundings, far from the bustle of the shoreline.
Funchal itself, perched on steep volcanic cliffs, boasts spectacular views that frame the ship’s sailing path. Madeira’s landscape here is marked by rugged black volcanic rocks and lush, terraced hillsides producing rich flora unique to this part of the Atlantic. Beyond wildlife and scenery, this trip offers a tangible connection to maritime history, celebrating Madeira’s pivotal role in seafaring and European exploration.
Madeira Happy Tours stands out in the local adventure scene by combining cultural storytelling and oceanic thrill in a sustainable and thoughtful way. The company respects Madeira’s delicate marine ecosystems, working to minimize impacts while maximizing visitor engagement. For adventurers craving a blend of history, wildlife, and the open ocean, the Santa Maria voyage delivers a distinctive passage into Portugal’s storied past and the island’s wild, watery frontier.
easy.
3–4 hours.
Suitable for most fitness levels; mainly seated or light walking on deck
Yes, the trip features swimming stops at calm coves where participants can dive into the Atlantic.
Absolutely—there’s a good chance to observe local dolphin and whale species in their natural habitat.
The typical excursion lasts between 3 to 4 hours, depending on weather and sea conditions.
Due to the historic design and wooden deck construction, wheelchair access is limited; contact the operator for specific accommodations.
Bring swimwear, towels, sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable non-slip shoes for safety and comfort.
Light snacks and refreshments are usually available, but it’s wise to verify with Madeira Happy Tours before your trip.
The Santa Maria replica honors Madeira’s maritime heritage and its role in Columbus’s voyages, celebrating 15th-century shipbuilding styles indigenous to the island.
Madeira Happy Tours emphasizes eco-friendly practices, avoiding disturbances to marine life and promoting sustainable tourism within the Atlantic marine park.
Madeira Happy Tours operates guided excursions across Madeira, offering a wide selection of tuk‑tuk rides, jeep safaris, levada walks and boat trips. The company runs short urban routes in Funchal and historic Old Town tours, panoramic skywalk visits at Cabo Girão, and coastal stops in Câmara de Lobos. Outdoor options include levada walks such as Levada da Referta, Levada do Rabaçal (Risco and 25 Fontes), Levada dos Prazeres and long coastal hikes like Ponta São Lourenço. Full‑day and half‑day jeep safaris explore island peaks, valleys, vineyards and the Nordeste, with tastings of local wines and poncha where listed. Evening experiences showcase Madeiran culture with folk dancing, live entertainment and traditional meals on the Night Island Tour. Guided options use a variety of vehicles — tuk‑tuks for compact city routes, jeeps for rugged terrain, catamarans for sunset and whale watching trips, and guided walking on levadas. Several tours combine activities, for example jeep safaris paired with levada walks or vineyard visits with lunches. Knowledgeable local guides provide route context, historical notes and safety briefings appropriate to each itinerary. Booking choices include half‑day, full‑day and multi‑activity packages. Images and descriptions for each trip outline duration and highlights. Madeira Happy Tours focuses on showcasing Madeira’s landscapes, culture and culinary specialties while providing accessible itineraries suitable for a range of fitness levels. Reservations can be made for individual tours or bundled packages to cover multiple island highlights. Detailed itineraries and booking information are available for each trip on the official tour listings and seasonal schedules.
Book with Madeira Happy Tours