The Queen has sent her “sincere condolences” to the families of those affected by the Madeira tourist bus crash.

Twenty-eight people died in the crash on the Portuguese island on Wednesday evening, and they were all German tourists.

Her message to German president Frank-Walter Steinmeier reads: “Prince Philip and I were deeply saddened to hear of the coach crash in Madeira.

Madeira crash
Floral tributes have been left at the scene where the bus left the road (Armando Franca/AP)

“We extend our sincere condolences, and our thoughts and prayers are with the families and loved ones of those affected.”

The bus was carrying 55 people when it veered off the road on a bend east of the capital Funchal, and rolled down a steep hillside.

Authorities said they are investigating the cause of the crash.

Local residents said the weather was good at the time of the accident, which happened while it was still light.