Luxury Cruise Ship Visits Funchal: A Brief Stopover
Madeira GuideThe luxury cruise ship, Le Dumont D’Urville, makes a brief five-hour stop at Funchal Port, bringing a touch of luxury to Madeira as it relocates from the Caribbean to the Mediterranean.
Funchal Port, a bustling hub for maritime travel on Madeira Island, welcomed the luxury cruise ship Le Dumont D’Urville on February 20, 2026. This ship, part of Ponant's exclusive Explorer class, is on a repositioning journey from the Caribbean to the Mediterranean.
Arriving from Fort-de-France, Martinique, the Le Dumont D’Urville reached Funchal at 14:30 and is scheduled to depart at 19:00, heading towards Malta. This brief stopover, managed by the agency Blatas, includes a small number of passengers, just four, along with 80 crew members.
Constructed by the renowned Italian shipbuilders Fincantieri, Le Dumont D’Urville began service in 2019. The vessel is known for its luxurious amenities and intimate setting, appealing to high-end travelers seeking unique maritime experiences.
A Maritime Hub
Funchal's port is a key point of interest for both locals and tourists, often serving as a venue for various events and a gateway to Madeira's natural beauty. The arrival of Le Dumont D’Urville underscores the island's appeal as a significant stop in global maritime routes.
In addition to hosting luxury cruises, the port is also gearing up for the Taça da Madeira de Regatas, a prestigious canoeing event taking place on February 21. This event will feature 122 athletes competing in various categories, further highlighting Funchal's vibrant maritime culture.
Sources
Madeira Guide
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