Dedicated holiday that is suitable for the whole family.
In the past Madeira's warm summers and mild winters have only traditionally attracted the 'older generation'. But, that's all now changing as more and more younger people realise just what this great family destination has to offer. No, you are not going to find miles and miles of deserted sandy beaches with bars and clubs. What you will find is a destination that has more to see and do than most of those places put together. Madeira is different and is proud that it breaks the mould.
Holidays in Madeira are for those who like splendid scenery, as well as sub-tropical flora and fauna, not to mention a modicum of old colonial charm. For here, you have a holiday that includes opportunities in the capital to soak up the atmosphere, indulge your cultural taste buds or to shop and find some local souvenirs, such as Madeira's famous basket/tapestry work or fine wine, for an eternal reminder of your holiday. You could spend hours and hours walking/trekking, viewing the many gardens with their tropical plants/flowers, or travel inland exploring the wonderful scenery of this volcanic island. Walking has long been a favourite pastime for those on holidays in Madeira. The levadas (irrigation channels) that criss cross the island form a network of trails that take you through spectacular volcanic landscapes.
However, there is even more, championship golf courses, various water sports which obviously include one of Madeira’s most famous attractions its huge Blue marlin fishing. Each year anglers from around the world travel to a volcanic island that rises up from the great depths of the ocean. In our standard itinerary, we include two days on a boat with our captain. You can use these days, subject to the time of year, to either fish for record-breaking size Blue Marlin, which can exceed well over 1000 lb, or in the winter months, catch the cheaters of the sea, Wahoo. Alternatively, you can use your two days to cruise around looking for Dolphins and Whales, which frequent the Madeira coast.
When it comes to accommodation, Madeira puts many holiday destinations in the shade. It has some of the best hotels in the world, including the famous Reid's Palace, which has been one of the island's classic landmarks for over a century. There are also some luxurious modern properties for all-inclusive holidays to Madeira.
FISHING METHODS
Big Game Fishing, Trolling.
SPECIES TO CATCH
Blue Marlin
Season: May to September
Peak: June to July
Weight: 400lb to 1100lb
Average Weight: 550lb |
Big Eye Tuna
Season: Jan to August
Peak: May to July
Weight: 30lb to 160lb
Average Weight: 75lb |
Wahoo
Season: September to Jan
Peak: Oct to Nov
Weight: 30lb to 120lb
Average Weight: 60lb |
Note: these figures are complied with catch reports over 5 years, however they can be affected by adverse weather conditions.
TOUR INCLUDES
Flights (E), transfers, accommodation, fishing, all tackle and packed lunch while fishing.
WHAT’S EXCLUDED
Holiday insurance, personal items, and local tips (recommendation 50 Euros per day).
OPTIONS
Flight Upgrades
Additional Fishing Days
Non Angling Activities
VISA
A machine-readable passport with at least 6 months before expiry.
MEDICAL REQUIREMENTS
No vaccinations currently required.
PLEASE NOTE
All details of visa and medical requirements are correct at time of press. However, please check these requirements for changes.
DEPARTURE TAX
There is no additional airport departure tax when leaving Madeira.
FLIGHT ROUTE AND FLIGHT TIME
UK - Funchal (approx 4hrs)
BAGGAGE ALLOWANCE
(E) 1 checked in item 20 kg.
TRANSFER TIME
Funchal airport - Resort (approx 20 mins).
LEVADA WALKS / SIGHT SEEING
A great opportunity to view the beautiful landscape as well as a great opportunity for stunning photography.
SHOPPING
Funchal offers a diverse range of shops including traditional markets, designer shops and jewellery stores.
BALLOON RIDE
Funchal has now a panoramic balloon that goes up 150 metres to show visitors a different perspective of the wonderful city, bay and surrounding areas.
WHALES & DOLPHINS IN MADEIRA
Several species of whales and dolphins may be sighted in Madeiran waters all through the year. The sperm whale is frequently found in Madeiran waters. Lone adult whales may be encountered year-round with more small family groups, sometimes including young calves, being seen in summer.
Fin whales are the other great whale regularly seen in Madeiran waters. Unlike the sperm whale, which is feeds on large prey such as squid, the fin whale and its close relatives, the Bryde's and sei whales, feeds on small schooling fish such as (in Madeiran waters) mackerel and scad, engulfing great scoops of water which is filtered through baleen plates to leave the whale with a mouthful of prey. On request and at your own risk Balancal can stop the engines and let you swim with some of these magnificent creatures.
