Spirit of Discovery blog

Three eventful days at sea led us southward to beautiful Madeira. Our guests could while away the time relaxing in their cabin, or enjoy the vast array of entertainment and activities on board. Comedy vocalist Jay McGee, ‘Britain’s Got Talent’ finalists Richard and Adam, as well as our own show-cast were all on the main stage to perform after Saga’s legendary dinner each evening.

Our arrival into Madeira had been delayed slightly by some inconvenient North Atlantic weather caused by storm Barra, putting our ETA into Funchal at lunchtime instead of after breakfast as planned. However, this didn’t upset the mood, for it meant we could enjoy a full 24hrs+ alongside here instead of a mere day.

Funchal had been lit up beautifully for Christmas, and looked spectacular especially when viewed from the panoramic Britannia Lounge in the evening from our perfect vantage point in the port. Moreover, we had negotiated the best berth in town; just a short walk away from the town centre.

I popped off in the evening for a meal with our Chief Engineer Len, who replaced Mark a few weeks ago when he went on his well-deserved leave. I was hoping for a more generous dining partner, but alas Len also hails from the north of England, and therefore he too keeps that traditional tight hold on his wallet.

Nevertheless, a cracking seafood delight was enjoyed in the cobbled backstreets of Funchal’s old town. Walking back to Spirit of Discovery at around 21:00, the evening was alive with locals outside and everyone enjoying the Christmas light displays and festive music being played on the waterfront.

The following day brought almost a full day alongside in the sunshine before the departure whistle sounded, prompting a rather lively pool-deck sail-away party with Cruise Director Tracy and her team…

Kind Regards
Captain Kim Tanner