saga cruise madeira

Our Man On The Ground Travel and Lifestyle

Global travel and lifestyle magazine, saga’s spirit of adventure.

Saga’s ocean cruises must rate as the most inclusive of all cruise line offerings. Your holiday starts when you are picked up from your front door. As well as door-to-door transport (or free parking if you choose to drive yourself) the fare also includes insurance, high-speed internet access via Starlink, drinks, unlimited speciality dining, 24-hour room service, gratuities and some shore excursions. Saga even offers complementary shuttle services at each port of call.

Food is also a major feature. As well as the main dining room and the buffet which, on some evenings, transformed into a relaxing table service restaurant, there are three speciality restaurants. Amalfi, as its name implies, is an Italian restaurant serving both traditional favourites and more unusual dishes. The Supper Club is an intimate location with musical entertainment offering some of the best steaks I have ever tasted. Guests can also pop by for a drink at the bar and enjoy the entertainment. However, my favourite was Khukuri House, a Nepalese restaurant with a great ambience and an enticing range of food. All three speciality restaurants are included in the fare.

The Canaries

I joined Saga’s Spirit of Adventure in the port of Funchal on the mountainous island of Madeira, famous for its cake, fortified wine, hazardous airport and spectacular mountainous landscape. The neighbouring marina was full of small boats and surrounded by gorgeous scenery. On the dockside there’s even a statue of the island’s famous son, footballer Cristiano Ronaldo, and a museum dedicated to him.

After a day enjoying walks and great views in the warm winter weather, Spirit of Adventure set off overnight for Santa Cruz, La Palma, where we arrived early the next morning. It was Sunday and the town was full of people strolling along the pedestrian main street, sitting outside with drinks, enjoying ice creams, and checking out shops which were full of inexpensive but stylish and unusual items, such a contrast to the ubiquitous high streets in the UK.

After a relaxing day, a little light shopping and a swim in the ship’s pool, another overnight sail took us to La Gomera, one of the smaller Canary Islands. Its tiny capital, San Sebastian, has a pedestrianised centre next to the marina and is easily explored on foot for some gentle exercise in the sunshine.

When the Portuguese first came to Cape Verde in the 15 th century the 10 islands were uninhabited. Shortage of water and barren landscapes made for a difficult way of life, but things have progressed since then.

Our first port of call was the island of Santiago, home to Praia, the country’s capital. It boasts three universities and the national library. It has a number of colonial buildings and is very much the country’s commercial and cultural hub. With more rainfall than the other islands, the interior has a greater diversity of flora and fauna and there are plenty of trees, unlike the holiday island of Sal where the ‘trees’ are mainly mobile phone masts in disguise. Santiago also has an airport, although the one on Sal handles international holiday flights from the UK and Portugal.

Another overnight sailing found us in busy Mindelo on the island of Sao Vicente. Heavy traffic, crowded streets, fishermen selling their catches and multiple shops and bars give it a metropolitan feel with a strong African vibe, its focus being on island rather than tourist trade. The town beach proved popular with locals and just a few visitors.

Then it was a two day sail back to the Canaries. I popped up to the top deck to chat to one of the four people on board from ORCA, the charity that carries out whale and dolphin sightings. The three decades of data they have gathered has led to better protection for whales and dolphins, and Saga supports this activity by offering places to members on certain cruises.

Our next port of call was Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the island’s capital and originally capital of all the Canary Islands. Since 1927 it has shared this honour with Las Palmas in Gran Canaria. Although a major business hub, Santa Cruz is an elegant and relaxed city with a large marina crammed with yachts. Again, the shops were filled with stylish and attractive items we don’t see at home.

Returning to the ship and my final night on board Spirit of Adventure, sailing to Lanzarote. The next morning I enjoyed my final buffet breakfast before my journey home.

The Details

Saga Cruises

Tel: +44 (0)808 258 0836

Website: www.travel.saga.co.uk

Number of Facilities on Board: Five restaurants, five bars, theatre, swimming pool, spa, gym, library, craft room, card room, high-speed internet access, two free-to-use laundry rooms including washing powder.

Number of Cabins: 554 balcony cabins of which 100 are designed for single occupancy; maximum 999 passengers.

Price Band: Medium to high but this is offset by the many items that are included which would incur extra charge on other cruise lines.

Insider Tip : For a unique dining experience try the Nepalese restaurant Khukuri House.

Reviewer’s Rating : 9/10

Author Bio:

Mike Pickup is an award-winning travel journalist and photographer who covers all forms of travel including ocean and river cruising for UK national newspapers and magazines.

Photographs by Mike Pickup

• Cruise Line
• Cruise Ship

Related Articles

Celestyal Announces New Persian Gulf Cruises

Celestyal Cruises has unveiled an all-new programme of cruises that will visit four new countries and six new ports of call in the Persian Gulf from November 2024. The line, which previously operated cruises in […]

First New British Cruise Line In A Decade Buys Second Ship

Ambassador Cruise Line has signalled its confidence in the British tourism and cruise market by purchasing a second ship. Ahead of the line’s first sailing this spring aboard the 1,400-passenger Ambience, the first British cruise […]

Our Man On The Ground Travel Q & A With Crystal Cruises’ Helen Beck

A new ship and far-flung destinations are among the exciting things on the horizon when Crystal Cruises’ resumes sailing – and in the meantime prospective passengers can whet their appetites with a virtual cruise programme. […]

Be the first to comment

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Copyright © 2024 | Our Man On The Ground Travel. All rights reserved.

• CruiseMapper
• Saga Cruises

Spirit of Discovery

Former name: saga olympic.

Cruise line Saga Ocean Cruises (Saga Cruises)

• Portsmouth UK (England)
• Dover (England)

Spirit of Discovery current position

Spirit of Discovery current location is at North East Atlantic Ocean (coordinates 44.13064 N / -7.11452 W) cruising at speed of 13 kn (24 km/h | 15 mph) en route to ES VGO >ES GIJ. The AIS position was reported 8 minutes ago.

Current itinerary of Spirit of Discovery

Spirit of Discovery current cruise is 12 days, round-trip Exploring Spain and Western France . The itinerary starts on 28 Apr, 2024 and ends on 10 May, 2024 .

Specifications of Spirit of Discovery

•   Itineraries
•   Review
•   Wiki

Spirit of Discovery Itineraries

Spirit of discovery review, review of spirit of discovery.

MS Spirit of Discovery cruise ship is the first of two identical polar expedition vessels built for Saga Cruises at Meyer Werft's shipyard in Papenburg Germany . Spirit of Discovery (scheduled delivery on June 28, 2019) has one sistership - Spirit of Adventure (delivered in August 2020/inaugurated in July 2021).

The vessel (IMO number 9802683) is UK- flagged (MMSI 232021171) and registered in London .

Saga Cruises is a UK company, division of Saga Group. With the purchase of Saga Rose (former NCL ship MS Sagafjord), in 1997 Saga Holidays started passenger shipping operations under the brand name "Saga Cruises". Unlike Saga's old fleet, the new boats are fully owned by Saga Group and replaced the two chartered vessels Saga Sapphire (now Blue Sapphire) and Saga Pearl 2 .

The vessel is owned by Saga Group and operated by the UK-based cruise company (via Saga Holidays) exclusively. The shipowner Saga plc is a British travel company and cruise brand targeting mainly UK travellers in the 50+ age group. Saga UK annually serves around 2,7 million customers. The company is LSE-listed (on London Stock Exchange) under the stock symbol (ticker) SAGA.

Decks and Cabins

Saga Spirit of Discovery staterooms (554 total) are all with private step-out balconies, which also means that the ship has no Inside cabins. Cabin categories include Standard Balcony, Deluxe Balcony, Midship Suites and larger Panorama Suites. 100 single cabins are specifically designed for solo travellers (can be booked with single-occupancy rates and without single supplement), which is approx 20% of the ship's total capacity.

Staterooms as decors and colour schemes are in three styles. First group's design features garden-like elements with light timbers, pastel-green colours, beautifully embroidered fabrics. Second group's design incorporates the more sophisticated grey with a dark-timber scheme, with pink-orange accented furnishings and carpet and upholstered headboard. Third group's colours are most calming, in neutral sunset tones with burnt oranges.

All cabins offer as standard (complimentary) amenities smart HDTV (infotainment system - Internet, on-demand movies, ship info channel, real-time camera views from the Bridge), direct-dial phone, large wardrobe, electronic safe box (in the closet), hotel-type beds (two twins, convertible double beds or fixed double beds with headboards), luxury bedding and pillows, bedside cabinets, wall-mounted reading lamps, mirrored dressing table (writing desk) with chair and magnifying mirror, separate lounge area (low table with two comfortable armchairs), en-suite bathroom (WC, glass shower, single-sink vanity with under sink storage), private step-out balcony (with table and deckchairs), individually controlled air-conditioning, LED lighting, keycard room access.

The 4 top-tier suites (Forward Balcony Suites categories AA and BB) are named Rose Suite (after the Saga Rose liner / 1965-2010 scrapped ), Ruby Suite (after the Saga Ruby liner / 1973-2016 scrapped ), Sidney De Haan Suite (after Sidney Isaac De Haan / 1919-2002, Saga Group's founder) and Joseph Meyer Suite (after Josef Lambert Meyer / Meyer Werft's founder).

The 8 top-tier suites (Aft Balcony Suites categories CC and DD) are named after regions and islands in the UK - Bailey Suite, Fair Isle Suite, FitzRoy Suite, Hebrides Suite, Humber Suite, Lundy Suite, Thames Suite, Trafalgar Suite.

The boat has 14 decks , of which 10 are passenger-accessible and 6 are with cabins.

Shipboard dining and entertainment options

Spirit of Discovery has 4 restaurants (3 specialty, 1 Dining Room), several bars and lounges (indoor and outdoor), wellness complex (Fitness, Spa, Hydrotherapy Pool, 5 treatment rooms, 2 Saunas, Steam Room, Beauty Salon, Sports Court), Boutique Shop, Library, Lobby area (Reception, Tour Desk), 2 swimming pools (indoor and outdoor), Promenade Deck (wraparound), Sun Deck (with comfortable seating, outdoor gym equipment), laundrettes (on all cabin decks). The ship has all 6 elevators (2 clusters of 3 lifts).

"Saga Discovery" ship features all-balcony staterooms, modern hotel amenities, British-style themed onboard activities, professional and traditionally attentive service. There is a choice of dining experiences, bars and entertainment venues, including speciality (one of which Asian, serving complimentary wines), outdoor Lido Deck (with open-air/alfresco dining space), Saga's signature Britannia Lounge, theatre lounge, central hub (named "The Living Room").

The cruise liner also has a modern wellness complex and 2 swimming pools (outdoor and indoor). The Spa complex consists of Beauty Salon, Hydrotherapy Pool, Salt-Steam Room, 2 Saunas (one infrared), 5 treatment rooms (for massages, latest beauty treatments and therapies). Library Lounge offers coffee and fresh cakes and one of the best-stocked book collections at sea. The 430-seat Playhouse Theatre has tiered seating and hosts grand-scale evening show productions, cinema screenings, live music performances.

Ship's team of Executive Chefs serves the all 5 onboard restaurants. Grand Dining Room (main restaurant) serves the best of British-influenced cuisine specialities. The chefs use locally produced food sources (based on cruise itinerary/destination) and create menus of ever-changing dishes. Passengers are able to make a reservation and eat in any of the other 4 restaurants at no extra cost. House wines from the ship's cellar are complimentary and served in every restaurant.

On Lido Deck is The Verandah Restaurant that consists of Bar and Grill with separate indoor and outdoor seating areas. These are actually two restaurants combined into one, with self-service buffet lunch and waiter-served dinner. Open-kitchen allows passengers to watch ship's chefs preparing the food during their galley (kitchen) show.

In June 2018, Saga Cruises signed a partnership deal with Jools Holland (English pianist, singer, BBC TV presenter) for "The Club by Jools" steakhouse restaurant. By the 5-year partnership deal (until 2024), at the Jools restaurant are performed live music and its bar is designed like a cabaret lounge from the 1950s. The dinner-only restaurant's menu features classic steaks (fillet, T-bone, ribeye, tomahawk steaks), live music performances (by resident and guest musicians) and premium cocktails.

In December 2018, Saga Cruises signed a partnership deal with Hush Heath Estate (Kent England wine producer, Staplehurst-based winery) to blend a new wine label specifically for Saga's new liner Discovery. The project was coordinated by Owen Elias (Hush Heath Estate's consultant winemaker), who worked with cruise company's executive chefs to create Saga's exclusive sparkling wine label "Spirit of Discovery".

Itineraries

Saga Spirit of Discovery itinerary program offers both cruises leaving roundtrip from UK ports and UK fly-cruise deals. Ship's both homeports are in England ( Dover and Southampton ). Dover roundtrips visit ports in Baltic Sea (Scandinavia and Russia, Norwegian Fjords, Germany and Belgium). Southampton roundtrips visit ports in the Mediterranean Sea (Spain, France, Italy) and the Canary Islands with Madeira. The ship also operates on roundtrip UK (Southampton) Transatlantic crossings to Caribbean and USA ports.

The inaugural cruise was initially scheduled for July 23, 2019 (themed "Channel Island Hop Cruise"), with next voyages, themed "Gourmet Spain" (August 3) and "Natural Scandinavia" (August 17). However, as the liner was delivered earlier (in June instead of July 2019), the maiden voyage was re-scheduled for July 10 (themed "A British First") - see more in the ship's WIKI section.

In late-March 2021, Saga announced a revised ex-UK 2021 summer program with 3 all-inclusive cruise itineraries scheduled for Spirit of Discovery, all leaving roundtrip from homeport London-Tilbury England .

• 14-night "Great British Isles Adventure" itinerary (departure July 11) visiting Falmouth , Holyhead , Belfast , Greenock-Glasgow , Ullapool , Kirkwall , Newhaven , Newcastle , with included tours in Kirkwall, Belfast, Edinburgh , Newcastle. Balcony cabin prices started from GBP 3375 per person with double occupancy.
• 6-night "Northern Isles to the Fjords" itinerary (departures July 3 and July 25) visiting Kirkwall, Sognefjord (scenic cruising), Lerwick , Stornoway , Scrabster , with included tours in Lerwick and Kirkwall. Balcony cabin prices started from GBP 1540 pp.
• 6-night "Scottish Highlands and Islands" itinerary (departure June 27) visiting Lerwick, Scrabster, Invergordon , with included tours in Invergordon and Lerwick. Balcony cabin prices started from GBP 1155 pp.

Saga's new ships are operated with all-inclusive package deals. Fares include unlimited (shipboard served) house spirits, beers, wine (by the glass) and soft drinks. Packages also include:

• UK travel package (to/from departure port), Shuttle bus transfer (to the nearest downtown from homeport)
• Onboard gratuities, Porterage
• Onboard Welcome cocktail party
• All onboard meals, afternoon tea, live entertainment
• Unlimited tea and coffee (selected ship venues)
• 24-hour room service
• premium service (2 staff members for 3 passengers)

Spirit of Discovery - user reviews and comments

Photos of spirit of discovery.

Spirit of Discovery ship related cruise news

Saga Group (UK) might sell its ocean cruise division

Saga Group UK has confirmed that it is exploring forming a "partnership arrangement" for its ocean cruise division. The travel and insurance group...

100 passengers on SAGA's Spirit of Discovery injured during distressing incident in the Bay of...

SAGA's vessel, Spirit of Discovery, encountered difficulties amid formidable maritime conditions characterized by "gale force winds and nine-meter...

Portsmouth UK boasts new sustainable cruise terminal

After an 18-month construction period, Portsmouth International Port proudly accommodates visitors from the ship Spirit of Discovery by Saga Cruises...

Saga UK's ship Spirit of Discovery hosts special Coronation celebrations

Saga Cruises announced it was incredibly proud that Camilla, Queen Consort was the Godmother of its ocean ship, Spirit of Discovery and in honor of...

Fred Olsen Balmoral ship's 78-day South America and Antarctica cruise starts Portsmouth UK's 2023...

2023 will see Portsmouth Port UK (England) host more maiden calls/welcome back cruise companies, as it continues to strengthen its place as the first...

Saga UK introduces 4 new Around Britain voyages for summer 2023

Saga Cruises added a further 4 round-Britain voyages into its summer 2023 schedule, all with up to 35% off, and timed to coincide with events like...

SAGA Cruises marks Spirit of Adventure’s and Spirit of Discovery’s anniversaries

SAGA UK marked the first anniversary of Spirit of Adventure’s maiden voyage (July 6th) and Spirit of Discovery’s 3rd anniversary (July...

SAGA's Spirit of Discovery is the first cruise ship in 3 years to dock in Tunisia

A cruise ship docked in port in Tunisia on Wednesday, March 23, for the first time since 2019, carrying 700+ passengers and good news for operators...

Saga Cruises returns to international cruising following Around-Britain itineraries

On October 5, Saga UK's cruise ship Spirit of Adventure is scheduled to depart on a 5-day "Taste of the Continent" itinerary visiting Holland...

Saga Cruises amends Spirit of Adventure maiden voyage due to Scottish restrictions

Saga Cruises had to amend the maiden voyage of their new ship Spirit of Adventure due to Scotland's lockdown restrictions. The ship is scheduled to...

•   show more news

Other Saga Ocean Cruises cruise ships

• Spirit of Adventure

Spirit of Discovery Wiki

For the new ship series, Saga employed the designer company SMC Design, which has extensive experience with cruise vessel design. Among SMC Design's customers are also P&O Cruises UK (Sindhu / Indian restaurant), Viking Ocean Cruises (Explorers Lounge), NCL (Mandara Spa).

Vessel's construction started on February 28, 2018 (steel-cutting ceremony), attended by Lance Batchelor (Saga Group's CEO) and Tim Meyer Meyer Werft's managing director). The boat's hull sections and building blocks were constructed and assembled at Building Dock I (Meyer Werft's Papenburg shipyard). Saga's Spirit of Discovery bookings (for all itineraries 2019-2020) opened in October 2017.

On June 28, 2018, was held the keel-laying ceremony. Traditionally, a commemorative coin was placed under the hull's first block (of all 54 blocks/hull and superstructure). The vessel was launched (floated out from drydock) on May 12, 2019. Its official delivery to Saga plc (UK) was initially scheduled for June 20, but later rescheduled for June 28 (2019).

Next timelapse video shows some phases of the vessel's  construction process .

The ship's christening ceremony was on July 5, 2019, held at Dover Western Docks ( Port Dover England) . Ship's official naming ceremony was attended by 500+ guests, including Saga Group's management, employees and crew. The quayside event was transformed into a traditional British garden party, complete with grass (grown in Yorkshire), bunting and table settings, foliage, florals, trees and parasols.

In early-June 2019 was announced the name of liner's Godmother - HRH Camilla (Duchess of Cornwall, aka Duchess of Rothesay). The 1947-born Camilla Rosemary Shand (now Camilla Parker-Bowles) is a British royal family member as the second wife of Charles (Prince of Wales, 1948-born as Charles Philip Arthur George).

In early-March 2019, SAGA announced that starting with the 14-day Inaugural Canary Islands cruise (Nov 4-18), the new liner becomes all-inclusive. This means that Saga cruise fares are inclusive of speciality restaurant dining, beverages (wine, beer, house spirits, soft drinks), 24-hour room service, Wi-Fi, gratuities, transfer (chauffeur service to/from homeport for cruise passengers based within 250 ml / 402 km distance). Shore excursions remain optional and at additional cost. The cruise company offers complimentary shuttle bus services in all ports where the town/city is over 0,5 km from the ship. The sistership Spirit of Adventure (August 2020) also offers all-inclusive deals.

In mid-June 2021 SAGA announced the names of its cruise ship Captains - Darin Bowland (Spirit of Discovery) and Jason Ikiadis (Spirit of Adventure). Bowland (starting in 1985) was previously employed by RCG-Royal Caribbean Group and Carnival Corporation ( HAL-Holland America Line 's ship Zaandam ). Ikiadis (starting in 1984) was previously employed by RCG ( Azamara 's ship Journey ) and TUI ( Marella 's ships Discovery and Discovery 2 ).

The vessel was last drydocked in 2023 (January 8 - February 2) at Lloyd Werft Shipyard ( Bremerhaven ). The scheduled drydocking was for routine class works and general maintenance (hotel and machinery).

Inaugural itineraries 2019

The inaugural cruise was initially scheduled for July 23, 2019 (themed "Channel Island Hop Cruise"), with next planned voyages themed as "Gourmet Spain" (August 3) and "Natural Scandinavia" (August 17). However, as the liner was to be delivered earlier, its maiden voyage was rescheduled for July 10th. For 2019, the ship had scheduled a total of 11 roundtrips from homeport Dover UK. The following tables show liner's inaugural cruise itineraries in 2019. Prices shown are indicative, in USD, per person, based on double-occupancy (Standard Balcony cabin rates).

The 13-day maiden voyage (themed "A British First" / British Isles circumnavigation itinerary) is a Dover roundtrip priced from USD 4060 pp.

4-day "Inaugural Cruise" from UK (themed "A Channel Island Hop", from USD 890 pp)

7-day Inaugural "Norwegian Fjords" cruise (themed "The Fjords in Focus", from USD 1770 pp)

14-day Inaugural Iberia cruise (themed "Gourmet Spain", from USD 4030 pp)

14-day Inaugural "Scandinavia and Russia" cruise (themed "Myths and Legends of the Baltic", from USD 4000 pp)

18-day Inaugural Mediterranean cruise from UK (themed "The Chic Mediterranean", from USD 4930 pp)

14-day Inaugural Canary Islands cruise from UK (themed "Spanish Islands of the Atlantic", from USD 3020 pp)

35-day Inaugural Transatlantic crossing from UK (themed "Fairy Tale of New York", from USD 9450 pp)

Saga announces 2024 ocean itineraries

The line is offering up to 35 per cent off for early bookings on cruises to africa, norway, the caribbean and more.

Saga Cruises has announced its first ten ocean itineraries for 2024 and is offering up to 35 per cent off for early bookings.

The cruises depart between January 4 and March 19, 2024 on the line’ two ships  Spirit of Adventure and Spirit of Discovery , and take in the Canary Islands, Africa, the northern lights in Norway, the Caribbean, the Mediterranean and the Adriatic.

Highlights include the Africa’s Atlantic Coast cruise on Spirit of Adventure , departing on February 3, 2024 for 30-nights, visiting Morocco, Senegal and The Gambia, as well as the Canary Islands, Madeira, Gibraltar and parts of mainland Spain.

Spirit of Discovery will head to the Caribbean on January 18, 2024 for a 30-night cruise calling first at Tenerife before heading to Antigua, and thanks to the ship’s small size, navigating the islands of Nevis, Martinique, Grenada, Bequia and Dominica before returning via St Lucia, Barbados and Sao Miguel.

“With demand well and truly back for cruising and 2023 already selling incredibly well, we’re looking ahead and launching the first of our 2024 ocean cruises now,” said Nigel Blanks, CEO of Saga Cruises.

“There really is something for everyone – from Africa’s Atlantic coastline to spotting the northern lights in Norway.

“As always, early bookers can secure a fantastic deal as we’re launching with up to 35 per cent off and that includes everything from our complimentary door-to-door chauffeur service and onboard dining to wi-fi, gratuities, entertainment and excursions. We even include travel insurance.”

Read more:  Saga adds round-Britain cruises

Celebrity Cruises welcomes guests to CocoCay

Cunard takes delivery of Queen Anne

P&O Cruises releases summer 2026 itineraries

Barbara Muckermann replaced as Silversea boss

Comments are closed, but trackbacks and pingbacks are open.

• Holiday Rentals
• Restaurants
• Things to do
• Madeira Islands Tourism
• Madeira Islands Hotels
• Madeira Islands Holiday Rentals
• Flights to Madeira Islands
• Madeira Islands Restaurants
• Madeira Islands Attractions
• Madeira Islands Travel Forum
• Madeira Islands Photos
• Madeira Islands Map
• All Madeira Islands Hotels
• Barcelo Hotels & Resorts in Madeira Islands
• Dom Pedro Hotels in Madeira Islands
• PortoBay Hotels & Resorts in Madeira Islands
• Pestana Hotels & Resorts in Madeira Islands
• Pierre & Vacances Hotels in Madeira Islands
• Charming Hotels Madeira in Madeira Islands
• Savoy Signature Hotels in Madeira Islands
• Hotels near (FNC) Madeira Airport
• Hotels near (PXO) Porto Santo Airport
• Julian Club Hotel
• Rixos Sungate
• Cook's Club Corfu Adults Only
• Bahia Principe Sunlight Costa Adeje
• Secrets Lanzarote Resort & Spa
• Dreams Corfu Resort & Spa
• Holiday Village Majorca - Protur Monte Safari
• Eden Roc Hotel
• AluaSoul Mallorca Resort
• Butlin's Skegness Resort
• The Land Of Legends Kingdom Hotel
• Insotel Punta Prima Resort & Spa
• H10 Rubicon Palace
• Granada Luxury Belek
• Grand Sirenis Riviera Maya Resort
• Popular All-Inclusive Resorts
• Popular Beach Resorts
• Popular Family Resorts
• Popular All-Inclusive Hotels
• Popular Hotels With Waterparks
• Popular Honeymoon Resorts
• Popular Luxury Resorts
• Popular All-Inclusive Family Resorts
• Popular Golf Resorts
• Popular Spa Resorts
• Popular Cheap Resorts
• Madeira Islands Cruises
• Cruises from Florida to Madeira Islands
• Cruises from Fort Lauderdale to Madeira Islands
• Cruises from Barbados to Madeira Islands
• Cruises from San Juan to Madeira Islands
• Cruises from Portsmouth to Madeira Islands
• Cruises from Southampton to Madeira Islands
• Cruises from Dover to Madeira Islands
• Cruises from Liverpool to Madeira Islands
• Cruises from London to Madeira Islands
• Cruises from Marseille to Madeira Islands
• Cruises from Hamburg to Madeira Islands
• Cruises from Barcelona to Madeira Islands
• Cruises from Genoa to Madeira Islands
• Cruises from Venice to Madeira Islands
• Cruises from Rotterdam to Madeira Islands
• Cruises from Lisbon to Madeira Islands
• Cruises from Civitavecchia to Madeira Islands
• Cruises from Buenos Aires to Madeira Islands
• Cruises from Tilbury to Madeira Islands
• Cruises from Newcastle to Madeira Islands
• Carnival Cruises to Madeira Islands
• Celebrity Cruises to Madeira Islands
• Crystal Cruises to Madeira Islands
• Cunard Cruises to Madeira Islands
• Fred. Olsen Cruises to Madeira Islands
• Holland America Cruises to Madeira Islands
• Norwegian (NCL) Cruises to Madeira Islands
• Princess Cruises to Madeira Islands
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises to Madeira Islands
• Royal Caribbean Cruises to Madeira Islands
• Seabourn Cruises to Madeira Islands
• Silversea Cruises to Madeira Islands
• Costa Cruises to Madeira Islands
• SeaDream Yacht Club Cruises to Madeira Islands
• Oceania Cruises to Madeira Islands
• MSC Cruises to Madeira Islands
• Hapag-Lloyd Cruises to Madeira Islands
• Saga Cruises Cruises to Madeira Islands
• Azamara Cruises to Madeira Islands
• Ponant Cruises to Madeira Islands
• 3 to 5 Day Madeira Islands Cruises
• 6 to 9 Day Madeira Islands Cruises
• 10 to 14 Day Madeira Islands Cruises
• 15+ Day Madeira Islands Cruises
• Madeira Islands Family Cruises
• Madeira Islands Luxury Cruises
• GreenLeaders
• Madeira Islands
• Things to Do
• Travel Stories
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travellers' Choice
• Help Centre

Cheap Madeira Islands Saga Cruises Cruises

• Europe    
• Portugal    

Unfortunately, there are no cruise itineraries that match your selections.

Please click here to search for other great cruises.

Explore Madeira Islands

Monte Mar Palace Hotel

Saga Hosted Hotels

Getaway for less

Save up to an extra £500 per couple on departures before 31 january 2025..

Save an extra £200 per couple on 7 night, £300 on 14 night, £400 on 21 night or £500 on 28 night holidays

This offer is not available online so please call to book your holiday.

From £ 595 per person *

T&C's apply

If you’re looking for spectacular views, look no further than Monte Mar Palace on Madeira. Its secluded clifftop setting offers views across the island’s mountainous coastline and UNESCO-protected laurel forests, making it an ideal choice whether you want to relax with a book or get out and explore. Facilities include a spa with Jacuzzi, a large unheated swimming pool and a heated indoor pool, and every guest room has a balcony with sea views. With the sound of the sea lulling you to sleep at night, ringside seats for every sun rise and sun set – no wonder so many guests vow to return.

Included with every Hosted Holiday

• Dedicated welcoming host
• Resort airport transfers
• Travel insurance and meals

All inclusive: All meals

One meal at specially selected local restaurant once per stay

Free bar open 12 hours a day (local drinks)

Unlimited tea and coffee

House wine and water at lunch and dinner

A weekly return shuttle service to nearby Sao Vicente and Funchal (subject to change).

International flights. Prices are based on return flights with British Airways from London Heathrow. Supplements may apply from other airports

Return transfers direct to your hotel

Minimum 20kg checked luggage, per person

Ponta Delgada, Madeira

London Gatwick Airport

All Inclusive

From £ 695 per person

Including optional travel insurance or a price reduction if not required

Holiday details

Food and drink.

The Monte Mar Palace Hotel offers both international and Portuguese cuisine, served buffet-style, in its restaurant. The free bar will be open from 11am to 11pm serving local alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Another of the hotels bars offers drinks between May and September. You will also have access to the pool bar.

Entertainment

You can enjoy the following programme of activities and entertainment during your holiday. Activities may change from time to time and some activities may be at an additional cost. Live music five nights a week Table Tennis Billiards Squash (extra charge) Talk on Madeira culture and traditions The following Saga Host-led walks are available Levada walk: Local bus service to levada, walk back to hotel Please note, all walks are subject to availability and the local bus is at own cost. A weekly return shuttle service to Funchal is included during your stay (subject to change). The following optional excursions should be available during your holiday, although the content and availability may change from time to time due to weather, local conditions and demand.

Accommodation

All 112 air-conditioned bedrooms have a balcony with sea view. Rooms feature a bath with an overhead shower.

• Outdoor swimming pool
• Heated indoor pool
• Squash court
• Golf putting

Holiday location

The Monte Mar Palace stands on Madeira’s rugged north coast, which is much less busy and developed than the rest of the island. So if peace, quiet, a secluded location and stunning views are what you’re looking for, this is the hotel for you: looking out across the Atlantic you really feel like you’re on the edge of the world. A short walk uphill brings you into Ponta Delgada, which has a small marina, but for a choice of bars, shops and restaurants take the free courtesy bus to Sao Vicente, about eight kilometres away.

The hotel was excellent in every way. The staff very friendly, efficient and courteous, the accommodation excellent and the restaurant brilliant.

Christine Nicholls , Norfolk

Optional excursions

Optional excursions can only be booked in resort and are subject to minimum numbers

Visit pretty Monte, famed for its beautiful church and its wicker toboggan rides down the sloping streets towards Funchal. These snowless toboggans, called carros de cesto, are guided by straw-hatted men and rides are available for approximately €25 (not included) and are payable by participants directly to the drivers. If you'd like to try this novel experience, please note you do so at your own expense and your own risk – Saga cannot take responsibility for your safety.

SIGN UP FOR TRAVEL INSPIRATION & OFFERS

Sign up to our emails for the latest from Saga Holidays.

By providing your details you will receive emails with related content and offers from Saga.  You can unsubscribe from this at any time.

For more information click here for our privacy policy .

• Favorites & Watchlist Find a Cruise Cruise Deals Cruise Ships Destinations Manage My Cruise​ FAQ Perfect Day at CocoCay Weekend Cruises Crown & Anchor Society Cruising Guides Gift Cards Contact Us Royal Caribbean Group
• Back to Main Menu
• Search Cruises " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-2-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruises" target="_self"> Search Cruises
• Cruise Deals
• Weekend Cruises
• Last Minute Cruises
• Family Cruises​
• 2024-2025 Cruises
• All Cruise Ships " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-4-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruise-ships" target="_self"> All Cruise Ships
• Cruise Dining
• Onboard Activities
• Cruise Rooms
• The Cruise Experience
• All Cruise Destinations " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-5-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruise-destinations" target="_self"> All Cruise Destinations
• Cruise Ports
• Shore Excursions
• Perfect Day at CocoCay
• Caribbean Cruises
• Bahamas Cruises​
• Alaska Cruises
• European Cruises​
• Mediterranean Cruises​
• Cruise Planner
• Make a Payment
• Beverage Packages​
• Shore Excursions​
• Dining Packages​
• Royal Gifts
• Check-In for My Cruise
• Update Guest Information
• Book a Flight
• Transportation
• Book a Hotel
• Required Travel Documents
• Redeem Cruise Credit
• All FAQs " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-7-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/faq" target="_self"> All FAQs
• Boarding Requirements
• Future Cruise Credit​
• Travel Documents​
• Check-in​ & Boarding Pass
• Transportation​
• Perfect Day at CocoCay​
• Post-Cruise Inquiries
• Royal Caribbean
• Celebrity Cruises

Cruise to Madeira (Funchal), Portugal

Madeira (funchal) shore excursions, amazing experiences coming soon., sorry, there are no excursions for this port at this moment., things to do in madeira (funchal).

Get Irrigated

A woman climbing the staircase at Pico de Areeiro in Madeira (Funchal), Portugal

A trip to Madeira isn't complete until you've walked along a levanda . With over 3,000 kilometers of irrigation channels around the island, the routes are endless. Wander deep into chasms, across mountains or through long tunnels, and discover some of the best views on the island.

Shipwreck Dives

Ponte do Gabrie on the coast of Portugal

Strap on your diving gear and jump into the crystal-clear waters of Madeira. Explore shipwrecks like Bowbelle, and observe sea life like anemones, fish and seals with a front-row seat to one of the best diving locations in all of Europe.

View From the Air

Take to the sky to catch a glimpse of Madeira Island from above. Adrenaline junkies will soar through the heavens while hang-gliding or paragliding over massive mountains and bewitching blue waters. First-timers are welcome, and tandem options with a guide are available.

Local Cuisine

On Madeira island, you'll find plenty of fresh seafood to sink your teeth into. Try filete de espada , a swordfish filet prepared the Madeiran way, with passion fruit and banana sauce. If that's too sweet for you, try the smoky espetada madeirense , beef cubes on a skewer cooked over wood or charcoal. Got a sweet tooth? Cruise to Madeira to try bolo de mel de cana , the local honey cake.

Shop till you drop on Funchal's main streets. Find regional goods, Portuguese delicacies and international shops in the capital city. For a more local feel, head to Feira da Lagartixa. Cruise to Madeira and try your bartering skills at the flea market on Saturdays, and discover unique treasures to bring back home with you.

Best Deals to Madeira (Funchal), Portugal

These cruises are selling out fast, get them while you can.

Departs From {{card.portName}}

Onboard {{card.shipName}} of the Seas

{{ card.totalGroups }} Itineraries

We've circled the globe and couldn't find any sailings that match your search. View All Cruises

We're having trouble retrieving these cruises. View All Results

Similar to Madeira (Funchal), Portugal

Previewing: Promo Dashboard Campaigns

My Personas

Code: ∅.

Saga Cruises Launches First 2024 Ocean Cruises

• November 24, 2022

Saga Cruises announced its first ten itineraries for the 2024 cruise season with up to 35 percent off.

The cruises set sail between January 4 and March 19, 2024, aboard the Spirit of Adventure and the Spirit of Discovery with itineraries including the Canary Islands, Africa, Norway, the Caribbean, the Mediterranean and the Adriatic, according to a company statement.

Nigel Blanks, CEO of Saga Cruises, said: “With demand well and truly back for cruising and 2023 already selling incredibly well, we’re looking ahead and launching the first of our 2024 ocean cruises now. There really is something for everyone from Africa’s Atlantic coastline to spotting the Northern Lights in Norway.

“As always, early bookers can secure a fantastic deal as we’re launching with up to 35 percent off and that includes everything from our complimentary door-to-door chauffeur service and on-board dining to Wi-Fi, gratuities, entertainment, and excursions. We even include travel insurance.”

Highlights include a 30-night cruise aboard the Spirit of Adventure departing on February 3 and visiting Morocco, Senegal, The Gambia, as well as the Canary Islands, Madeira and Gibraltar, Spain. The cruise also includes excursions in Cadiz, Las Palmas, Santa Cruz (Tenerife), Funchal and Coruna.

Prices for the 30-day journey start from £7,995 per person.

The Spirit of Discovery will embark on a 30-night cruise on January 18 visiting Tenerife, Antigua and the islands of Nevis, Martinique, Grenada, Bequia, and Dominica.

Prices for the cruise start at £7,519 per person.

Among the highlighted cruises is also a 15-night Night Skies of the Canaries voyage and a 14-night Canary Island Discovery aboard the Spirit Adventure departing from Portsmouth on January 5 and January 20, 2024.

Travelers can also take advantage of the Magic of the Northern Lights cruises aboard the Spirit of Discovery departing on March 2 and aboard the Spirit of Adventure sailing on March 19.

Cruise Industry News Email Alerts

• Breaking News

Get the latest breaking  cruise news .  Sign up.

54 Ships | 122,002 Berths | $36 Billion | View

Highlights:

• Mkt. Overview
• Record Year
• Refit Schedule
• PDF Download
• Order Today

• 2033 Industry Outlook 
• All Operators
• Easy to Use
• Pre-Order Offer
• Advertising
• Cruise News
• Magazine Articles
• Quarterly Magazine
• Annual Report
• Email Newsletter
• Executive Guide
• Digital Reports

Privacy Overview

• Fact sheets
• Images & reports
• Get in touch

02 April 2024, 10:24

Saga Launches 2025 Ocean Cruises

02 April 2024 : Saga has officially launched its 2025 boutique ocean cruises programme, with 47 all-inclusive itineraries sailing aboard sister ships, Spirit of Adventure and Spirit of Discovery.

There are plenty of new experiences, itineraries and ports-of-call available - as well as a new nationwide chauffeur service - across Saga’s new 2025 season of all inclusive no-fly cruises.  Highlights include more unforgettable experiences, such as tuk-tuk tours, which have been expanded to feature on 20 cruise itineraries and offer guests the option to explore the cities of Lisbon, Oporto, Split and Valencia by this unique mode of transport.

New ports-of-call for Saga ships in 2025 include the Croatian island of Korcula on the Dalmatian

Coast and also Helsingør in Denmark’s North Zealand, which offers the ideal opportunity to visit Kronborg Castle, immortalised by Shakespeare as the home of Hamlet.

Also new for 2025, Saga’s chauffeur service is now nationwide, so guests will be picked up from home across the UK mainland at no extra cost.

2024 was Saga’s fastest selling season ever, and some cruises sold out very quickly, so Saga is committed to offering early bookers for 2025 the very best deals, therefore, these cruises are available now with up to 35 per cent off the full price. Saga also offers a price promise, whereby if the price of the cruise is reduced, guests who have paid the higher price will get the value of the difference.

Some highlights from the 2025 programme include:

- A 21-night all-inclusive Croatia and Gems of the Mediterranean cruise departing 22nd May 2025 from Dover.  This cruise to the Adriatic offers guests a stop on Spain’s Costa Tropical to visit Motril, en route to Malta and its capital, Valletta, before exploring the historic coastal cities of Croatia, including the island of Korcula - a brand new port of call for Saga this year - then Split and the UNESCO-listed Diocletian’s Palace, as well as UNESCO-listed Dubrovnik with its ancient fortifications. It will also cruise along the scenic Bay of Kotor and the opportunity to stroll the medieval streets of the fortified town of Kotor, where Romanesque churches sit alongside Venetian mansions. And finally, the cruise visits the Greek ruins of Sicily and iconic Rock of Gibraltar on the return journey.  Prices start from £7,069 per person for a standard balcony cabin (based on two sharing).

- A 49-night all inclusive Caribbean and Central America Discovery cruise departing Portsmouth on  6th January 2025.  This cruise contrasts the Caribbean and Central America, cruising from one tropical island to the next, before visiting the ancient Mayan ruins and dense rainforests of Central America and then onto the USA.  After the transatlantic crossing via Madeira, Spirit of Discovery visits the Caribbean islands of St Lucia, Barbados, Bequia and the Dutch Caribbean islands of Willemstad and Oranjestad.  The voyage continues to Central America to visit UNESCO-listed Cartagena and Colón, before the chance to experience the rainforests and banana plantations of Puerto Limón, beaches of Honduras and archaeological treasures of Belize City. Progreso, on Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, offers a gateway to the iconic Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza.  The cruise will also visit the Gulf of Mexico to the Texan city of Galveston, from where guests can visit the world-renowned Houston Space Station with its NASA spacecraft, before following the Mississippi River for an overnight stay in New Orleans, birthplace of jazz and renowned for its Creole cuisine and French Quarter, as well as Miami and the opportunity to visit the famous Everglades National Park.  There is an overnight stop in Bermuda, where UNESCO-listed St George’s became an English settlement in 1612, and call at the scenic Azores archipelago on the return journey.  Prices start from £16,128 per person for a standard balcony cabin (based on two sharing).

There are also new itineraries that sail around the British Isles, from Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly to the Highlands of Scotland and Belfast in Northern Ireland. These itineraries are the ideal staycation with a difference and include:

- A 10-night all-inclusive Island Hopping in the British Isles cruise departing Portsmouth on 5th May 2025.  This cruise showcases the heritage and dramatic scenery of the British Isles, calling first into Guernsey with its 18th-century towers and unique World War Two fortifications.  The cruise then crosses the Irish Sea to visit Northern Ireland’s cultural capital of Belfast, where the RMS Titanic was built, before voyaging along the Welsh coast to visit Holyhead, gateway to exploring the Isle of Anglesey and Snowdonia National Park. From the Isle of Man, the cruise then heads to Ullapool, located on the shores of Loch Broom, and the remote Orkneys, home to the famous Neolithic site of Skara Brae. Prices start from £2,968 per person for a standard balcony cabin (based on two sharing).

Saga guests can also choose from a range of other popular cruises throughout the year to destinations such as the Mediterranean, Norway (and the Northern Lights), Africa, the Caribbean and the Canary Islands. 

Saga’s boutique ocean cruises are all-inclusive with no hidden costs on-board and guests also have the benefit of the new complimentary nationwide chauffeur service between home and Dover or Portsmouth.

Saga Cruises come with all dining and house drinks including a selection of cocktails, draft beers and lagers, wines, spirits, mixers and soft drinks, including premium label spirits available at no additional cost. Wi-Fi, gratuities, fitness facilities, 24-hour room service, sightseeing tours in selected ports, entertainment (from lectures to recitals to shows), porterage of luggage, shuttle buses to nearest town centres and travel insurance are also included.

Guests can view and book these 2025 cruises at saga.co.uk/2025 or by calling 0808 273 6463.

Selected destination images are available here , and cruise ship images here .

Sarah Lloyd-Morrison

Notes to editors

Saga is a leading provider of products and services primarily tailored for customers over the age of 50 in the UK. The Saga brand has been carefully developed over the past 60 years to become one of the most recognised and trusted brands among UK consumers over 50. Saga is synonymous in the UK with the over 50s market and is recognised for its high-quality products and services. These include cruises and holidays, home and motor insurance, savings and share dealing and the UK’s award-winning Saga Magazine.

SHP Split Tuk Tuk Adriatic DMC EXT 19774