We have just arrived back from the Porto Santa Maria after staying there for 1 week over the New Year. Once again we had a brilliant time and as ever the staff were fantastic, they cant do enough for you, I would definitely recommend this hotel to anybody it is in a fantastic location on the water front, and even though the building work is going on to improve the water front this did not spoil our holiday. We will be back again next year, big thank you to all the staff.
Just read the comments from that other person, I think, he went to another hotel.

We have just returned from a 7 night stay at the Porto Santa Maria hotel. We have stayed there a few times before and been pleased but this time the new manager and his team have tweaked a few things ( eg breakfast/coffee and tea ) and the hotel seems to be running like clockwork.
The New Years Eve Gala was excellent and thought had obviously gone into the seating plan. The venue for watching the fireworks is perfect - just one note Do Not wear high heels as they could easily catch in the decking - A member of staff ( the lovely Victor) pointed this out to me before the event so I changed into flats.
In contradiction of a previous review - we found Lina to be helpful and friendly making the holiday special and the manager charming - we did have a small issue that needed resolving and all the staff responded quickly and efficiently.
We are already planning our next visit - regardless of building work - this gave us something to watch and although a little noisy did not spoil our stay. I awarded four stars for sleep quality because we did find the pillows rather heavy and hard.

Lovely hotel, fantastic position, rooms spotless, spacious and comfortable. The only issue was no option (even payable) of internet in the room. At least there was really fast internet in public areas, so not such a big deal. Otherwise, would gladly stay again and will recommend to friend.

My wife and i spent Christmas 2012 at this superb hotel. From the moment we walked through the door till the time we reluctantly had to leave for home we were so well looked after with great attentive staff that just couldn't do enough for us.When we went to the restauaranf for our xmas eve gala dinner we were greeted by an amazing choir singing christmas carols. The gala dinner was superb !!!!!!! The restaurant staff worked so hard to ensure that everything went smoothly and Lina entertained us all . She has such a charasmatic , warm , friendly nature and got everyone involved singing and joining in . Such a wonderful evening. We had a first class champagne breakfast every morning and didn't need anything more to eat until the evening !!! Anyone thinking of visiting Maderia but are put off by the hilly terrain then this is the hotel for you. It is ideally situated in the Old Town of Funchal alonside the Promanade. It's 5minutes walk to the famous fish market (no hills) and a 10 minute stroll into the centre full of shops and cafe's that leave you spoilt for choice. Finally once again a big thanks to all the staff and Andre the manager who put your Christmas on hold to make your guests Christmas so magical we will always remember our stay with you which is why we have already booked Christmas 2013 with you. See you Dec 23 2013.

Regards

Trevor & Linda P