Port
Funchal (Madeira), Portugal
Activity Level
Moderate Activity
Excursion Type
All
Wheelchair Accessible
No
Starting At (prices in USD)
$100
Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
Duration
Approximately 3-3.5 hours
Meals Included
Meals not included
Experience wonderful views of the island of Madeira.
Your first stop is in the Old Town of Funchal. A steam railway was built here in the 1800s to take cruise line guests up the hillside from Funchal, but the railway closed in 1939, so now this dramatic trip involves the use of a cable car. You will board the cable car to begin your own 15-minute ride all the way up to the village of Monte -- a favorite destination for visitors to Madeira since the late 19th century.
At the top, you'll see the twin-towered façade of the 18th-century church -- an iconic landmark that dominates the city.
Now, brace yourself for a perfectly unique experience -- your ride back down the hill to Livramento will be by way of the famous Madeira toboggan. These incredible wicker sleighs make for a slightly bumpy but very exciting downhill run as you are pushed and pulled by carreiros -- people who do this for a living. The entertainment aspect is utterly priceless, and this experience is not to be missed.
Guests wishing to stay in town to shop or explore independently are welcome to do so but must make their own way back to the ship.
Please note: Guests who opt not to take the toboggan ride can return via motorcoach. Wear comfortable walking shoes. The cable car is not advisable for guests with mobility limitations; access is like a ski lift as the cable car does not stop for boarding. The sleigh ride is at a moderate-to-fast pace. All forms of transportation involve inherent risk; you participate at your own risk. Sleigh operates weather permitting. Expect a queue for the sleigh ride, which is not exclusive to Seabourn guests; the wait may extend your tour duration up to three hours. Tour does not operate on Sundays or holidays. Weather and atmospheric conditions vary; no guarantee is offered regarding visibility or views on any particular day.