Madeira to the Balearic Isles

Welcome to Funchal, a charming and laid-back city set against the stunning blue backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean. Known for its renowned wines, idyllic climate, and breathtaking scenery, Madeira has earned the title "Island of Eternal Spring."

When you arrive, be warmly welcomed on board Scenic Eclipse II by the Captain and crew.

Head to the Sky Bar on Deck 10 and toast the beginning of an unforgettable voyage as you look over this enchanting Atlantic gem. Be sure to savour a glass of the famous Madeira wine.

Please book your flight to arrive into Funchal prior to 02:00 PM.

Formed by a volcanic eruption, Madeira lies in the Gulf Stream, about 500 miles due west of Casablanca. Discovered by Portuguese explorer João Gonçalves Zarco in 1419, this beautiful island became part of Portugal’s vast empire and was named for the dense forest which cloaked it - 'Madeira' means 'wood' in Portuguese. Sugar plantations first brought wealth here, and when King Charles II of England granted an exclusive franchise to sell wine to England and its colonies, many British emigrants were drawn to the capital, Funchal. Today’s travellers come to Madeira for the varied and luxuriant scenery, from mountain slopes covered with vines to picturesque villages and a profusion of wild flowers. The natural beauty of the island has earned it many pseudonyms such as ‘The Floating Garden of the Atlantic’, 'The Island of Eternal Springtime' and ‘God’s Botanical Gardens’ and our selection of excursions aim to show you why.

Boasting one of Europe’s finest golden-sand beaches, Porto Santo is a serene escape of golden shores and blue waters, perfect for relaxation. The island’s renowned 9 kilometres beach is believed to have therapeutic qualities, with its sand and waters rich in iodine, calcium, and magnesium, making it ideal for soothing rheumatism and bone ailments. Enjoy a leisurely day here before continuing your journey to Portimão, with a relaxing sea day in between.

The small island of Porto Santo lies 21 miles northeast from Madeira, a two and a half hour trip by local ferry. As a result of this close proximity, Porto Santo’s history has been associated with that of its larger sister island since the 14th century, when both appear on a Genoese map. It was in the early 15th century that the Portuguese explorer, Joao Goncalves Zarco, landed on uninhabited Porto Santo after being blown off course while exploring the coast of Africa. He returned the following year on a voyage sponsored by Henry the Navigator; this time he spotted Madeira on the horizon. Compared to Madeira, Porto Santo still remains largely unspoiled, with beautiful sand beaches. Its climate is fairly predictable - dry and warm with few differences in temperature between the seasons, which allows swimming almost year-round. In addition to fine beaches, the island’s major claim to fame is based on the fact that Christopher Columbus lived here for some time and was married to the daughter of the local governor. In the small capital, Vila Baleira, the house of Columbus has been converted into a museum. Another attraction on Porto Santo is the Pico do Castelo. The fort, standing on the highest point of the island, was erected in the 16th century to ward off attacks by French and Algerian pirates. In recent years, thousands of trees have been planted in various parts of the island in an effort to stem the erosion of precious soil. Results so far offer pleasingly green patches in an otherwise dry and arid landscape. Remote Porto Santo still offers visitors an air of tranquility and a look at an unhurried way of life, where stress has not yet had its effect on the 5,000 or so islanders. On the other hand, one must also keep in mind that tourist facilities on Porto Santo are not of the same high standard as on the sister island, Madeira. Pier Information The ship is scheduled to dock at the port of Santo. The pier is about two miles from Vila Baleira, the island’s small capital. Taxis may be found in limited supply for the short ride to town or for a trip around the island. Rates should be agreed on before leaving the pier. Facilities at the port include telephone and fax services, a pharmacy and a rental car office. Shopping Local souvenirs include objects made from straw such as miniature windmills and dolls. They can be found in shops around Vila Baleira. Opening hours are generally from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., opening again at 3:00 p.m. Most shops accept U.S. dollars. The local currency is the euro. Cuisine If you feel like having lunch ashore, seafood is your best choice, which you can find at either Mar e Sol or Por do Sol in Vila Baleira. Other Sites Of interest in town are several churches, the town hall square, a monument dedicated to Portuguese discoveries and the Museum “Casa Colombo.” Around the island you find ruins of 16th-century fortifications and a geological monument at Pico Ana Ferreira. Most of these sights are covered on the tour.

At sea are the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind, and enjoy the peaceful rhythm of life onboard. Guests can visit the gym for a workout, indulge in a rejuvenating spa treatment, or simply find a comfortable spot on deck to watch for whales and admire the endless ocean views. They can also enjoy onboard entertainment, read a favorite book, or savor delicious meals at their own pace. With no rush to disembark, these tranquil blue sea days provide a refreshing break from the excitement of sightseeing. The balance between leisurely days at sea and adventurous days ashore creates a truly rewarding and memorable cruise experience.

On the western Algarve, Portimão is a small port with a bustling historic centre. Enjoy the day exploring this once well-known fishing port, now transformed into a breath-taking promenade with shops selling traditional lace, ceramics, and leather goods, and fantastic restaurants. Portimão is much loved for the steep limestone cliffs that surround its sandy beach of Praia da Rocha. Architectural masterpieces from the 19th and 20th century blend with colourful contemporary structures.

Portimão is a major fishing port, and significant investment has been poured into transforming it into an attractive cruise port as well. The city itself is spacious and has several good shopping streets—though sadly many of the more traditional retailers have closed in the wake of the global economic crisis. There is also a lovely riverside area that just begs to be strolled (lots of the coastal cruises depart from here). Don’t leave without stopping for an alfresco lunch at the Doca da Sardinha ("sardine dock") between the old bridge and the railway bridge. You can sit at one of many inexpensive establishments, eating charcoal-grilled sardines (a local specialty) accompanied by chewy fresh bread, simple salads, and local wine.

On the shores of the Guadalquivir River lies Seville, the elegant capital of Andalusia. Arrive in the afternoon to explore this historic city, an architect's dream with striking architectural styles, from the Gothic design of the Cathedral de Santa María de la Sede to the Baroque beauty of the Iglesia Colegial del Salvador.

Docking right in the heart of the city, simply step off your Discovery Yacht to begin your own discovery. The ship will be spending the night in Seville, giving you ample opportunity to sample the city’s famed culinary scene, small bars and flamenco dancing.

Cádiz lies on Spain’s breathtaking province of Andalusia and gained incredible wealth during the 18th century; riches from the Americas were unloaded here after the Guadalquivir River to Seville silted up. This scenic southern region is the home of the matador and world-class equestrian art. Seville, city of polyamorous suitor Don Juan, boasts plenty of its own glories. Its grand cathedral, Alcázar Palace and Tower of Gold were built from the coffers of Spanish kings, but its fiery flamenco defines its true spirit. It is best to ponder it all while sipping sherry at a bodega.

At the northwestern tip of the African continent lies Tangier, guarding the Strait of Gibraltar where the Mediterranean Sea meets the Atlantic Ocean. Known as the White City for its whitewashed houses lining winding streets, Tangier has been shaped by numerous cultures and civilisations over the centuries. The strong Spanish influence makes it a prime example of Spanish-Moorish architecture. Today, Tangier is a bustling modern port and the busiest in the Mediterranean. After departing from Tangier, enjoy the stunning passage through the Strait of Gibraltar and a view of the iconic Rock of Gibraltar.

A pivotal port city linking Africa and Europe, Tangier lies just nineteen miles across the Strait of Gibraltar from the Iberian Peninsula. Long coveted for its strategic location where the Atlantic and Mediterranean meet, numerous empires called it their own throughout history. The city’s vibrancy and multicultural air attracted all manner of artists in the late 20th century, including Henri Matisse and Paul Bowles. Tangier’s ancient, walled medina brims with the pleasures of Morocco, from intricate carpets and finely made slippers to fresh dates.

Renowned for its luxury cars, high-end boutiques, and impressive yachts, Puerto Banús embodies exclusivity—making it the perfect match for your journey aboard Scenic Eclipse II. Designed in the 1970s, this charming coastal enclave seamlessly blends Andalusian heritage with the elegance of a sophisticated port town, capturing the essence of both traditional fishing villages and modern luxury.

Set against a backdrop of immense mountains, wind your way through the town’s narrow streets lined with flower boxes. Experience one of the many glitzy bars this evening before another late departure.

At sea are the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind, and enjoy the peaceful rhythm of life onboard. Guests can visit the gym for a workout, indulge in a rejuvenating spa treatment, or simply find a comfortable spot on deck to watch for whales and admire the endless ocean views. They can also enjoy onboard entertainment, read a favorite book, or savor delicious meals at their own pace. With no rush to disembark, these tranquil blue sea days provide a refreshing break from the excitement of sightseeing. The balance between leisurely days at sea and adventurous days ashore creates a truly rewarding and memorable cruise experience.

Whilst Ibiza is known for its dazzling sunsets and thriving party scene, there is more to this island than meets the eye. Home to beautiful nature and superb beaches, you will also discover archaeological sites and small villages almost untouched by modern life. With a full day in port and a late departure, you’ll have time to sample everything this glamorous island has to offer then watch the sun dip below the horizon over a glass of sangria.

Hedonistic and historic, Eivissa (Ibiza, in Castilian) is a city jam-packed with cafés, nightspots, and trendy shops; looming over it are the massive stone walls of Dalt Vila —the medieval city declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1999—and its Gothic cathedral. Squeezed between the north walls of the old city and the harbor is Sa Penya, a long labyrinth of stone-paved streets that offer some of the city's best offbeat shopping, snacking, and exploring. The tourist information office on Vara de Rey has a useful map of walks through the old city.

Your voyage ends in Palma de Mallorca, where Gothic cathedrals, medieval palaces, and golden beaches create a stunning finale. Enjoy one last delicious breakfast on board before disembarking, taking with you memories of a truly unforgettable Mediterranean voyage.

Please book your flight to depart out of Palma Mallorca after 12:00 PM.

#Spa treatments at additional cost. +All drinks on board, including those stocked in your mini bar, are included, except for a very small number of rare, fine and vintage wines, Champagnes and spirits. Specialty restaurants require a reservation, enquire on board. Flights on board our two helicopters and submersible experiences are at additional cost, subject to regulatory approval, availability, weight restrictions, medical approval and weather conditions.

Helicopter not operational in Morocco. Submersible not opertional in Europe.

The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Scenic cannot guarantee the voyage will operate unaltered from the itinerary stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.

If you look north of the cathedral (La Seu, or the seat of the bishopric, to Mallorcans) on a map of the city of Palma, you can see around the Plaça Santa Eulàlia a jumble of tiny streets that made up the earliest settlement. Farther out, a ring of wide boulevards traces the fortifications built by the Moors to defend the larger city that emerged by the 12th century. The zigzags mark the bastions that jutted out at regular intervals. By the end of the 19th century, most of the walls had been demolished; the only place where you can still see the massive defenses is at Ses Voltes, along the seafront west of the cathedral.A torrent (streambed) used to run through the middle of the old city, dry for most of the year but often a raging flood in the rainy season. In the 17th century it was diverted to the east, along the moat that ran outside the city walls. Two of Palma's main arteries, La Rambla and the Passeig d'es Born, now follow the stream's natural course. The traditional evening paseo (promenade) takes place on the Born.If you come to Palma by car, park in the garage beneath the Parc de la Mar (the ramp is just off the highway from the airport, as you reach the cathedral) and stroll along the park. Beside it run the huge bastions guarding the Almudaina Palace; the cathedral, golden and massive, rises beyond. Where you exit the garage, there's a ceramic mural by the late Catalan artist and Mallorca resident Joan Miró, facing the cathedral across the pool that runs the length of the park.If you begin early enough, a walk along the ramparts at Ses Voltes from the mirador beside the cathedral is spectacular. The first rays of the sun turn the upper pinnacles of La Seu bright gold and then begin to work their way down the sandstone walls. From the Parc de la Mar, follow Avinguda Antoni Maura past the steps to the palace. Just below the Plaça de la Reina, where the Passeig d'es Born begins, turn left on Carrer de la Boteria into the Plaça de la Llotja (if the Llotja itself is open, don't miss a chance to visit—it's the Mediterranean's finest Gothic-style civic building). From there stroll through the Plaça Drassana to the Museu d'Es Baluard, at the end of Carrer Sant Pere. Retrace your steps to Avinguda Antoni Maura. Walk up the Passeig d'es Born to Plaça Joan Carles I, then right on Avenida de La Unió.