Funchal Port Bustling with Over 6,000 Visitors
Madeira GuideThe port of Funchal witnessed a bustling day as over 6,000 people, including passengers and crew from multiple cruise ships, visited the Madeira terminal.
On December 27, 2025, the port of Funchal experienced a vibrant influx of visitors, with more than 6,000 people arriving at the Madeira Cruise Terminal. This influx was mainly due to the arrival of two major cruise ships, the MSC Musica and the Marella Explorer 2.
The MSC Musica docked at 8:00 AM, bringing with it 2,669 passengers and 938 crew members. This ship, part of the Cruise Atlantic Islands itinerary, conducted a partial turnaround involving 351 new passengers embarking and 366 disembarking.
In addition to the MSC Musica, the Marella Explorer 2 was already anchored, having arrived from Lanzarote. It carried 1,752 passengers and 754 crew members, also part of the Atlantic cruise circuit. Both ships continued their journey towards Santa Cruz de Tenerife and Santa Cruz de La Palma, respectively.
The Santa Maria Manuela, a traditional Portuguese sailboat, was also present and offered voyages between Funchal and Porto Santo throughout the day. This added to the lively maritime atmosphere.
Madeira's port activities are a crucial part of the island’s tourism, especially during the festive season. The arrival of the Costa Fortuna the following day is expected to further boost the local economy, bringing additional visitors from La Palma.
Such bustling port activities highlight Madeira as a key stopover in the Atlantic cruise itineraries, attracting thousands of visitors who contribute significantly to the local economy. The efficient management and seamless operations at the port ensure a smooth experience for all travelers.
Sources
Madeira Guide
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