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Awaiting Your Return From Shore |
The small island of Porto
Santo lies 21 miles northeast from Madeira, a two and a half hour trip
by local ferry. Compared to Madeira, Porto Santo still remains largely
unspoiled. Unlike its sister island, Porto Santo boasts beautiful sand
beaches. Its climate is fairly predictable--dry and warm, with few
differences in temperature between the seasons, which allows swimming
almost year 'round. In addition to magnificent beaches, the island’s
major claim to fame is based on the fact that Christopher Columbus lived
here for some time and was married to the daughter of the local
governor. In the small capital, Vila Baleira, the house of Columbus has been converted into a small museum.
Another attraction on Porto Santo is the Pico do Castelo. The fort, standing
on the highest point of the island, was erected in the 16th century to ward
off attacks by French and Algerian pirates. Remote Porto Santo still offers
visitors an air of tranquility and a look at an unhurried way of life.
Pier Information. The ship is scheduled to
dock at the port of Santo. The pier is about two miles from Vila
Baleira, the island’s small capital.Taxis may be found in limited supply
for the short ride to town or for a trip around the island. Rates should
be agreed on before leaving the pier. Facilities at the port include
telephone and fax services, a pharmacy and a rental car office. |
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Shopping. Local souvenirs include objects
made from straw, such as miniature windmills and dolls. They can be
found in shops around Vila Baleira. Opening hours are generally from
9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., opening again at 3:00 p.m. Most shops accept
U.S. dollars. |
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Cuisine. If you feel like having lunch ashore,
seafood is your best choice, which you can find at either Mar e Sol or
Por do Sol in Vila Baleira. |
Other Sights
Of interest in town are several churches, the town hall square, a
monument dedicated to Portuguese discoveries, and the Museum “Casa
Colombo.” Around the island you find ruins of 16th-century
fortifications and a geological monument at Pico Ana Ferreira. Most of
these sights are covered on the tour. |
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Awaiting Your Return
From Shore |
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Complimentary
Spirits Await |
Return to Your
Suite and Sail Away to The Next Adventure |
Entertainment
and Dancing Await You |
