Cruise Trips

A Classic Sailing Adventure in Madeira

When I first looked into the Cruise Trips aboard the Spica Yacht, I was struck by how intimate and thoughtfully designed this experience seems. This is a luxurious, 43-foot classic sailboat built by Bruce Roberts in 1986, with a reputation for comfortable ocean voyages and a small-group feel. What sets it apart is not just the classic aesthetics but also its focus on customization and genuine hospitality.

Two things I love about this experience are the personalized attention from friendly crew members, who go out of their way to make the trip special—like arranging a surprise birthday cake or offering seasickness medication—and the stunning views along the Madeira coastline, particularly during the scenic stop at Cabo Girao. On the flip side, one possible consideration is that the trip lasts just 3 hours, which might feel short if you’re craving a full-day adventure or want to include overnight stays.

This sailboat trip offers excellent value, especially given the all-inclusive open bar, snorkeling, and the option to add meals or book multi-day stays. It’s perfect for those who want a relaxed, intimate cruise with a touch of personal service, making it ideal for celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a peaceful sail along Madeira’s coast.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Small-group Experience: Limited to 12 participants, offering a more personal and relaxed atmosphere.
• Luxurious Yet Vintage: Built in 1986, the boat combines classic charm with modern amenities like Bluetooth, electric bathrooms, and a large lounge.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: Fuel, marinas, snorkelling gear, crew, and open bar are included, making it simple to relax without extra worries.
• Flexible Options: Meals and overnight stays can be added, allowing for customized experiences beyond the 3-hour cruise.
• Spectacular Views and Scenic Stops: Highlights include sailing along the coast and stopping at Cabo Girao for impressive vistas.
• Authentic Personal Touches: Reviews highlight friendly crew members, personalized service, and thoughtful extras like surprise birthday cakes.

The Experience of a Lifetime aboard Spica Yacht

If you’re looking for a way to explore Madeira’s coast that combines comfort, authenticity, and an intimate setting, this cruise aboard the Spica Yacht might just be your ideal pick. I love how the vessel attracts a small group—typically just your party of up to 10—so you’re not lost in a sea of strangers. The boat’s design, with its two masts and vintage appeal, makes for a pleasing blend of classic sailing charm and modern functionality.

The crew at Spica Sailing Yacht is often praised for their friendliness and attentiveness. Eva’s review captures this perfectly, noting that the captain and mate were “really friendly and looked after us really well.” They even managed a surprise birthday cake for a guest celebrating a milestone, showing their knack for personalized touches.

What I find striking is the diversity of options that can be tailored to your wishes. Whether you want to celebrate a special occasion, enjoy a simple scenic cruise, or add meals or overnight stays, the crew is flexible. During the trip, expect to sail along the coast, with breathtaking views, especially at the famous Cabo Girao Cliff, where the scenery becomes particularly dramatic.

The scenic stop at Cabo Girao—one of the world’s highest sea cliffs—is a real highlight. The views here are spectacular and the perfect spot for photos or just soaking in the natural beauty. The 3-hour sail feels just right for a quick escape, but it’s enough time to relax, sip drinks, and enjoy the sea breeze.

What to Expect During the Cruise

The cruise begins at Marina do Funchal, a lively hub for boat trips and a good spot to get your bearings. The boat is situated in front of the kiosks, so finding it is straightforward. The vessel’s capacity is quite intimate—just 10 people—which means you’re not crammed in like sardines, but rather enjoying a cozy, private atmosphere.

Once aboard, you’ll notice the luxurious interior, including two suites with electric bathrooms—a real plus for comfort—and a large lounge area perfect for relaxing or socializing. The boat is equipped with Raymarine electronics and radar, ensuring safety and navigation, but the real joy is in the experience and the scenery.

The trip includes a welcome drink, a chance to toast your sailing adventure, and the option to indulge in a charcoal BBQ on deck. If you prefer, a bar or meal service can be arranged, adding to the leisurely vibe. The boat’s outside features—two dining tables, bathing ladder, hot and cold showers—make it versatile whether you want to sunbathe, snorkel, or just dip your toes in the water.

The itinerary is straightforward but packed with scenic highlights: you start by sailing along Funchal’s coast, then head towards Cabo Girao, where the views are jaw-dropping. The crew’s knowledgeable guides ensure you see the best sights and have plenty of time for photos or just soaking it all in.

The Value of the Experience

At $56 per person for a 3-hour trip, this experience is generally considered excellent value, especially considering what’s included—fuel, marina fees, snorkeling gear, an open bar, and personalized service. The most significant benefit here is the quality of the experience rather than just ticking off a sightseeing box.

The reviews reinforce this: Eva was delighted that her friend’s birthday was made extra special with a surprise cake, and Léa’s family raved about the beautiful sunset, the friendly crew, and the delicious platters of cold meats, cheeses, and rillettes.

For those wanting more, there’s the option to extend the cruise to include meals or even spend the night onboard. This flexibility makes it suitable whether you’re seeking a quick escape or a more immersive sea adventure.

Who Is This Cruise Best For?

This boat trip works well for small groups, families, couples, or friends celebrating a special event or simply wanting a peaceful day on the water. If you appreciate a relaxed, intimate setting with a friendly crew, this is a perfect choice. It’s also ideal if you prefer a luxury feel without the hefty price tag, thanks to the all-inclusive setup.

However, if you’re someone with mobility challenges or in a wheelchair, you might find the activity not suitable, as explicitly noted in the info. Also, a trip of only 3 hours might not satisfy those wanting a full-day or overnight experience. Still, for its price and focus on quality, this cruise provides exceptional value.

Final Thoughts

For anyone wanting a personalized, scenic, and comfortable way** to see Madeira’s coast, the Spica Yacht cruise offers a memorable outing. Its vintage charm, friendly crew, and breathtaking views make it stand out among the many sea excursions available. Plus, with snorkeling, a barbecue, and the chance to celebrate something special, it’s a well-rounded experience that goes beyond just sailing.

Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, enjoying a romantic sunset, or simply craving time on the water, this cruise delivers a relaxed, quality adventure that feels authentic and thoughtfully curated. It’s the kind of experience that leaves you with stories to tell and memories to cherish.

FAQ

How long is the cruise?
The main cruise lasts approximately 3 hours, but check availability for specific starting times.

What’s included in the price?
Fuel, marina fees, snorkeling gear, crew, and an open bar are included. Meals and additional services are optional and can be booked separately.

Is the trip suitable for children?
The experience is designed for small groups and might be best suited for older children and adults. It’s not specified if children are explicitly allowed, so check with the provider.

Can I bring my own drinks or food?
The package includes an open bar, and meals can be arranged if desired. Bringing outside drinks is not mentioned, so it’s best to clarify with the operator.

Is there a minimum group size?
The trip operates with a small group limit of around 12 participants, ensuring a personal experience.

Are there any accessibility issues?
Yes, electric wheelchairs and wheelchair users are not accommodated, as noted in the activity info.

Can I book multiple days or overnight stays?
Yes, longer trips with meals included and sleeping onboard are available if you want to extend your experience.

What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothing suitable for a boat, plus sunscreen and perhaps a hat. The boat has showers if you want to freshen up afterward.

In sum, this sailboat cruise offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, comfort, and personalized service. For those seeking a peaceful day on Madeira’s waters with a touch of class and authentic hospitality, it’s a solid choice.