Funchal Port Welcomes Over 9,200 Visitors Amidst Festive Rush
Madeira GuideOn the festive occasion of the First Octave of Christmas, Funchal Port saw a significant influx with four cruise ships docking, bringing over 9,200 visitors to Madeira.
On December 26, 2025, Funchal Port experienced a bustling day as four cruise ships docked simultaneously, marking a vibrant start to the First Octave of Christmas. This maritime influx brought more than 9,200 people to the island, including 6,375 passengers, offering a substantial boost to the local economy through tourism.
The ships in the port included Le Laperouse, Queen Anne, Borealis, and Marella Explorer 2. Queen Anne, arriving from Cadiz, Spain, was the first to dock at 5:45 AM with 4,265 people on board, including 2,765 passengers and 1,500 crew members. The vessel is on an 18-day journey beginning in Hamburg, Germany, and features stops in several ports across Europe.
Significant Cruise Arrivals
Following Queen Anne, Borealis arrived at 7:00 AM, carrying 1,108 passengers and 614 crew members, for an 11-hour stopover. This ship, operated by JFM Shipping, started its voyage in Portsmouth, UK, and after Funchal, will head to various Canary Islands before returning to Portsmouth in early January.
Marella Explorer 2 was the last to arrive, docking at 4:30 PM with 2,502 passengers and 757 crew members. This ship is managed by AgĂȘncia Ferraz and will depart the following day at 6:00 PM.
Le Laperouse, a smaller vessel with 148 passengers and 120 crew, had been in port since the previous Wednesday and departed for La Estaca, Canary Islands, at noon on the same day.
Impact on Local Tourism
The arrival of these cruise ships during the festive season not only underscores Funchal's strategic importance as a key port in the North Atlantic but also highlights the island's appeal as a tourist destination. Such events significantly contribute to Madeira's economy by increasing visitor spending in local businesses, hotels, and attractions.
As the holiday season continues, Funchal Port is expected to maintain this busy trend, with more ships like MSC Musica scheduled for arrival, further emphasizing the portâs role in supporting Madeira's thriving tourism industry.
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Madeira Guide
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