Funchal Welcomes Over 9,500 Passengers from Cruise Ships and a Tall Ship
Madeira GuideOn December 23, 2025, Funchal's port was bustling with over 9,500 visitors arriving on three cruise ships and a tall ship, marking a lively day for the Madeiran capital.
Funchal, the vibrant capital of Madeira, experienced a bustling day on December 23, 2025, as the port welcomed over 9,500 passengers arriving on three cruise ships and a tall ship. This significant influx of visitors highlights Madeira's continued appeal as a prime destination for maritime tourism.
A Day of Maritime Activity
The day started early with the arrival of the 'Mein Schiff Relax', which docked at 6:00 AM. This ship, operated by TUI, carried 4,253 passengers and 1,436 crew members. It arrived from Las Palmas de Gran Canaria and was scheduled to depart at 10:00 PM for Santa Cruz de La Palma, continuing its seven-day itinerary through the Canary Islands and Madeira.
Later in the day, at 1:00 PM, the Marella Voyager arrived from Fuerteventura, bringing 1,965 passengers and 781 crew members. This ship, managed by AgĂȘncia Ferraz, is on a Cruise Atlantic Islands (CAI) itinerary and will remain in Funchal overnight before heading to Santa Cruz de Tenerife the following evening.
Two other vessels, the 'Amera' and the 'Santa Maria Manuela', were already in port, having arrived the previous day. The 'Amera', with its 653 passengers and 406 crew, is on a 27-day cruise from Bremen, Germany, to Panama, while the 'Santa Maria Manuela', a tall ship, is carrying a small group of seven passengers and 16 crew. Both ships are set to depart at 6:00 PM, the 'Amera' heading towards St. Maarten in the Dutch Antilles and the 'Santa Maria Manuela' to Porto Santo.
Upcoming Arrivals
On Christmas Eve, Funchal is set to welcome more visitors, with the arrival of the Azura, Wind Star, and Le Laperouse, joining the Marella Voyager. This anticipated influx underscores the festive season's vibrancy in Madeira, attracting tourists eager to experience its unique charm and hospitality.
Located in the Atlantic Ocean, Madeira is renowned for its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality, making it a favored stop for cruise ships exploring the Atlantic islands.
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Madeira Guide
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