Looking Forward to a Return Trip to Madeira, Portugal Feature Article Discussion Forum

During last year's Trans-Atlantic cruise on board the Celebrity Summit, we enjoyed a fantastic day on the friendly beautiful island of Madeira. When we visited last year we really did not expect to ever have a chance to return to this remote and exotic island, but our upcoming cruise will bring us there again for a second chance to take in the unique scenery and culture of the island.

During our visit last year we covered many of the single day highlights of the island. We first visited many of the beautiful gardens of the island. After a little souvenir shopping, we enjoyed the islands famous wicker toboggan ride down the from the famous island retreat of Monte. After we tried a bit of Madeira's famous wine, we ended the day by enjoying a beautiful sunset and sail-a-way from the island from the balcony of our ship.

This year we have no specific plans, but are aware of many options due to our research prior to our visit last year. The ship will dock again at the capitol city of Funchal. The walk into town is about 30 minutes from the cruise ship. Some of the possibilities might include a visit to the islands' museum "The Madeira Story Center." This interactive museum includes exhibits that tell the story of the island from its volcanic beginnings, to colonization by the Portuguese, and the riches of …

We actually really enjoyed the Tobboggan ride.  We thought it would be bumpy, but it was very smooth.  It was definitely the highlight of that day.  And though I would recommend it, I don't feel like I need to do it again.  For this coming trip we want to do a few different things.   It is such a beautiful island.

I might try that balloon if it is there.  For some reason it wasn't running when we were there last year.