We will be arriving by cruise ship for one day and would like to take the cable car to Monte. Can you provide instructions on how to do this? Thank you!
It's an easy 20 minute or so walk out of Funchal cruise port and turn right along the sea front.
But alternatively your cruise line may provide a shuttle bus the few minutes into town which will almost certainly drop you at the park which is just up from Blandy's wine lodge.
Turn down the road opposite the park to the sea front and turn left. 5 to 10 minutes walk will bring you to the Teleferico do Funchal [the Monte Cable Car].
It's impossible to miss.
Try to be fast off the ship, before the ship's shore excursions get there.
Just go inside and buy a ticket at the machine- one way or return as you wish, If you also want to go to the Botanical Garden then purchase a combi ticket which includes the separate cable Car (turn right out of the top station) or turn left for Monte Cathedral and village, and the sled ride down the hill.
It's very easy to find, very easy to do.