A perfect day on the Island of Porto Santo
We took an Atlantic crossing from Funchal to the golden island aboard Lobo Marinho — the perfect escape, with open sea, stillness, and cruise-like charm.
A slow day of discovery — golden sand, gentle sea and time to truly unwind.
Where time slows down
Some places invite you to breathe differently. Porto Santo is one of them. Just over two hours from Funchal by sea, this golden island offers a rare blend of silence, raw beauty and unhurried simplicity.
The crossing — a cruise before the island
We set off early aboard the Lobo Marinho, the elegant ferry operated by Porto Santo Line. This is more than transport: it feels like a short Atlantic cruise, with outdoor decks, panoramic lounges, cinema, café-bar and family-friendly spaces.
As we left Madeira behind, the dramatic coastline slowly disappeared — the Pico do Arieiro, the cliffs of Ponta de São Lourenço, and the lush green outline of Santana. Out on the open sea, the light shifts and deepens. Occasionally, seabirds skim the surface, and if you’re lucky, dolphins may ride alongside the bow. The journey is calm, immersive — a prelude to what awaits.
Around the island: freedom on two wheels
Once ashore, we rented a motorbike — a light and practical way to explore the island at our own rhythm. For those who prefer other options, there are organised jeep tours and guided excursions. The route takes you through semi-arid hills, long sandy stretches, quiet villages and wild coastal views.
The Portela Viewpoint is a must-stop: from here, the whole island unfolds beneath you, framed by sea and sky. Further ahead, we reached the natural rock pools of Porto das Salemas — a hidden gem where volcanic rock meets crystal-clear water, ideal for a quiet dip.
Lunch in the village: local flavour, slow pace
Back in Vila Baleira, we headed to the charming historical centre for a relaxed lunch. The main square is peaceful and full of character — cobbled pavements, palm-shaded terraces and a gentle pace of life. We recommend two welcoming and authentic spots: Apollo 14 and Baiana. Both serve grilled fish, meat skewers, bolo do caco fresh from the oven, and of course, Madeiran wine. Apollo 14 also offers a great selection of petiscos and light bites, perfect for sharing or a casual meal. At Baiana, the local flavour blends with Mediterranean touches, featuring fresh pasta dishes and artisan-style pizzas.
Apollo 14
Baiana
A house of maps and sea
Right after lunch, we visited the Christopher Columbus House Museum, modest from the outside but filled with meaning. Legend has it Columbus lived here after marrying the daughter of the island’s first governor. Inside, the museum showcases navigation instruments, maps, manuscripts and insights into the island’s quiet role in the Age of Discovery.
Sand, salt and golden light
The rest of the afternoon was spent where Porto Santo is at its most iconic: on the beach. The island boasts nine uninterrupted kilometres of soft, golden, mineral-rich sand and clear, warm waters. It’s perfect for swimming, barefoot walks, or simply switching off.
Before returning to the ferry, we paused at Pé na Água, a laid-back beachfront café-bar with loungers, snacks and cocktails — the ideal spot to soak in the last light of day with your feet in the sand.
Pé na Água
Farewell on the horizon
The sunset, already from aboard the ferry, paints the return in golden and lilac tones. The island fades behind us, but the sensory memory of the day — the light, the salt, the feeling of freedom — stays with us. Skin still warm from the sun and our pace gently slowed, we enjoyed a light meal on deck, watching the final colours of the day unfold.
The Lobo Marinho glides calmly between sky and ocean, and there’s a quiet sense of fulfilment that’s hard to describe. This journey has something truly magical — it feels like a mini cruise, with paradisiacal beaches, Atlantic views and time to slow down. All for the price of a ferry crossing. And yes, we’re already longing to return.
Prefer everything arranged? There are ready-made day packages
For those who like to have it all sorted in advance, Porto Santo Line offers several day cruise packages with activities included — perfect for enjoying the island without the hassle of planning.
Choose from a day trip with bike rental, a guided island excursion, a 4×4 off-road adventure, or even a golf experience with Atlantic views.
🚢 See all available options on the official website: www.portosantoline.pt
Staying longer? Absolutely.
If one day isn’t enough, Porto Santo invites you to stay. Thanks to a partnership between Porto Santo Line and the hotels Torre Praia and Praia Dourada, you can book special packages with ferry + accommodation included, ideal for a slow holiday with everything arranged.
The Hotel Porto Santo & Spa is another excellent option, with direct beach access, a spa, and a seafront pool — perfect for unwinding to the rhythm of the island.
And for golf lovers, Porto Santo features a spectacular 18-hole course designed by Severiano Ballesteros — with sweeping fairways, ocean views and a silence only this island can offer.
