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Madeira Flower Festival Parade & Boat Tour (May’s 1st Sunday)

Funchal
Replica of the Santa Maria ship sailing on the ocean with white sails and a red flag
Group of people in colourful costumes parading with flowers at a festive event
Crowd of children and adults watching a street parade in traditional outfits: hat with flower.
Woman wearing an extravagant floral dress posing on a decorated parade float.
Woman wearing an elaborate dress made of flowers and fruits parading through the street.
Dancers in vibrant, flower-adorned dresses performing during a parade.
Woman in a red dress and floral-adorned hat walking down the street.
Smiling child dressed in a floral outfit holding a small bouquet of flowers.
Parade float decorated with fruits and flowers on display at an outdoor festival.
Float like a giant basket filled with flowers and fruits showcased at a floral exhibition.
Duration
10 Hours
Size
Difficulty
Leisurely

Key Benefits

  • Madeira Flower Festival tickets with reserved grandstand seating for the parade
  • Santa Maria Columbus Ship Tour, exploring Madeira’s coastline on a replica of Columbus’ vessel
  • See dolphins, whales, and marine life on this unique boat trip in Madeira
  • Stops at Cabo Girão, one of the highest sea cliffs in the world, with breathtaking views
  • Enjoy a taste of Madeira with complimentary Madeira wine and honey cake on board
  • Return transport included—no long waits after the parade
  • Festival pack: includes a hat and bottled water for the parade

Overview

Make the most of the biggest day of the Madeira Flower Festival with an all-in-one experience that includes a scenic boat tour on the Santa Maria Replica Ship, a reserved grandstand seat for the parade, and hassle-free return transport.

Your day begins aboard the Santa Maria Columbus Ship, a replica of Christopher Columbus’ famous vessel. This boat trip in Madeira offers a three-hour journey along the island’s coastline, giving you a unique perspective of Madeira’s landscapes and marine life. Dolphin and whale watching in Funchal is a highlight, with frequent sightings of these incredible creatures. The tour includes a stop at Cabo Girão, one of the highest sea cliffs in the world, where you’ll take in dramatic views of the coastline. Onboard, enjoy a taste of Madeira with complimentary Madeira wine and honey cake.

After the Santa Maria boat tour, you’ll have free time to explore Funchal, soak in the festival atmosphere, and visit the Flower Exhibition, where award-winning floral displays showcase Madeira’s botanical heritage.

The highlight of your day is the Madeira Flower Festival Parade, where you’ll enjoy reserved grandstand seating with your Madeira Flower Festival tickets. Watch the impressive floral floats, themed flower costumes, and dance performances as thousands gather to celebrate this spectacular event. To keep you comfortable, we provide a festival pack, including a hat and bottled water.

After the parade, when thousands of visitors face long taxi and bus queues, you’ll enjoy a smooth return transfer to your hotel in Funchal or other locations upon request.

Do you need tickets for the Madeira Flower Festival to watch the parade comfortably? This package ensures guaranteed seating and a stress-free experience at the Madeira Portugal Flower Festival.

Included & Excluded

  • Professional crew on the Santa Maria Columbus Ship
  • Madeira Flower Festival tickets with reserved grandstand seating
  • Festival pack: hat and bottled water for the parade
  • Complimentary Madeira wine and honey cake on the boat tour
  • Hotel drop-off to Funchal hotels (other locations on request)
  • Taxes and handling fees
  • Extra drinks (outside the included package)
  • Personal purchases at festival stalls
  • Pick-up not included – guests must meet at the kiosk of Nau Santa Maria, in Cais 8 (near the marina)

Additional Notes

  • Wear comfortable walking shoes.
  • Festival crowds are expected, but reserved seating ensures an excellent view.
  • Guests must arrange their own transport to the meeting point (Cais 8, Nau Santa Maria Kiosk) by 09:30.
  • Guests must arrive at the grandstand at least 30 minutes before the parade starts.
  • Return transport to hotels departs at 19:30, avoiding long waits for taxis and buses after the parade.
  • Cancellations are accepted up to 7 days before the tour due to high-demand festival logistics.

 

Book now to secure your spot for this unique experience, which combines the best of the Madeira Flower Festival with a scenic Santa Maria Boat Tour.

 

Other Information

WhenWhen? Available only on the first Sunday of May each year.

Ship Departure: 10:30

Requirements: Check-in is mandatory at least 30 minutes before departure.

From
140 €