Christmas cruise in Madeira on a historic schooner
Christmas cruise in Madeira on a historic schooner
Celebrate Christmas in a truly special way on board the Santa Maria Manuela, sailing between the islands of Madeira and Porto Santo. This unique voyage combines the festive spirit with the excitement of traditional sailing, creating unforgettable moments both at sea and ashore.
Our journey begins in Funchal, where you can enjoy the emblematic "Noite do Mercado" on the 23rd of December. This is one of the most exciting nights in Madeira, with streets full of music, colours and traditional flavours. Soak up the lively atmosphere, sample local delicacies and enjoy the infectious energy of this unique celebration.
The next morning, set sail for Porto Santo, enjoying the experience of sailing aboard this historic four-masted schooner. Upon arrival on the golden island, you can explore the serene scenery, stroll along the 9km of fine sandy beach or simply relax and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.
On our sailings from Funchal to Porto Santo and vice versa, we invite you to take part in the sailing, learn about maritime traditions or simply enjoy the Christmas atmosphere among the crew and passengers.
A truly unique and memorable way to celebrate the holidays!
At the end of December, temperatures in Madeira and Porto Santo are mild, ranging from 16°C to 22°C, with a gentle breeze and occasional light showers. The sea is usually calm, ensuring a comfortable and pleasant sailing experience.
What you need to know:
A magical Christmas journey on board the Santa Maria Manuela.
Itinerary
The itinerary begins in Funchal, where visitors can explore the Botanical Gardens and enjoy a glass of Madeira wine in one of the many cellars. Next, travel to Porto Santo, famous for its golden sandy beaches and history. Here you can enjoy water sports or visit the Christopher Columbus House. The trip concludes back in Funchal, offering an experience rich in culture, nature and relaxation.
FunchalKnown for its warm climate and breathtaking scenery, this town offers lush gardens, rich culture and a vibrant culinary scene. Ideal for exploring and enjoying Madeira's natural beauty.
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Leave the long, cold winter nights behind and celebrate the "season of light" in the semi-tropical warmth of Madeira.
Immerse yourself in the lively Christmas spirit of Funchal with its festive markets, live music and dazzling lights; the perfect complement to a magical journey.
Participate in daily sailing routines or enjoy some time to relax.
Full board included: 3 meals per day
On-board activities and voluntary cooperation in navigation
Share the festive spirit with old and new friends. Set sail from the historic volcanic shores of Funchal.
Dive into the crystal blue waters of Porto Santo, where you'll find a stunning 9km long beach.
5 nights
From 1150 €/per person
23/12/2025 - 28/12/2025
Boarding harbor: Funchal (Portugal)
Disembarkation harbor: Funchal (Portugal)
Santa María Manuela: 4-masted schooner (44 people + crew)
A magical Christmas journey on board the Santa Maria Manuela.
Leave the long, cold winter nights behind and celebrate the "season of light" in the semi-tropical warmth of Madeira.
Immerse yourself in the lively Christmas spirit of Funchal with its festive markets, live music and dazzling lights; the perfect complement to a magical journey.
Participate in daily sailing routines or enjoy some time to relax.
Full board included: 3 meals per day
On-board activities and voluntary cooperation in navigation
Share the festive spirit with old and new friends. Set sail from the historic volcanic shores of Funchal.
Dive into the crystal blue waters of Porto Santo, where you'll find a stunning 9km long beach.
Christmas cruise in Madeira on a historic schooner
23/12/2025 - 28/12/2025
5 nights
Boarding harbor: Funchal (Portugal)
Disembarkation harbor: Funchal (Portugal)
Santa María Manuela: 4-masted schooner (44 people + crew)
From 1150 € / p.p
Porto SantoKnown for its golden sandy beaches and crystal clear waters, this island offers an ideal destination for relaxation. Enjoy nature, warm weather and a rich cultural history in a paradisiacal setting.
FunchalWhere your journey will end
*IMPORTANT: The itinerary is indicative and may vary according to weather conditions and the crew's preferences. The skipper is responsible for safety on board and can modify the itinerary at any time.
Your boat
Santa María Manuela: 4-masted schooner
The Santa Maria Manuela is a 4-masted sailing schooner, built in 1937 initially as a commercial cod fishing vessel. After many years campaigning in the cold north, and following an extensive refit in 2022, she now offers a programme of sailing holiday cruises, scientific expeditions, events and team building programmes.
The unique heritage of the Santa Maria Manuela, with her white hull, beautiful lines, simple navigation systems and open deck make her one of the most sought after in the world for cruising and events. Since its renovation it offers great comfort and makes it one of the most modern and comfortable in the world, while remaining true to its sailing origins.
The Santa Maria Manuela is a 4-masted sailing schooner, built in 1937 initially as a commercial cod fishing vessel. After many years campaigning in the cold north, and following an extensive refit in 2022, she now offers a programme of sailing holiday cruises, scientific expeditions, events and team building programmes.
The unique heritage of the Santa Maria Manuela, with her white hull, beautiful lines, simple navigation systems and open deck make her one of the most sought after in the world for cruising and events. Since its renovation it offers great comfort and makes it one of the most modern and comfortable in the world, while remaining true to its sailing origins.
Your cabin
All staterooms on the Santa Maria Manuela have en-suite bathrooms and private showers. Each stateroom is air-conditioned, has ample storage space, and is highly soundproofed for comfort.
The ship has 10 double cabins, of which two of them are the master cabin and the Atlantic suite with double beds, and the rest with bunk beds with wide berths. The ship has 4 quadruple cabins with bunk beds and one cabin for up to 6 people, also with bunk beds.
Facilities: Shower and shower head (WC) / Wardrobe / Reading light / USB / European two-pin plugs / Privacy curtains / Towels and bed linen / Daily cleaning / Carpeting / Air-conditioning / Air-conditioning / Air-conditioning / Air-conditioning / Bathrobes and towels / Bathroom linen / Bathroom towels / Bathroom towels and towels
Daily cleaning / Carpeting / Air-conditioning / Soundproofing / Soundproofing
Life on board
Rates & availability
Booking conditions
All travellers must be between 14 and 80 years of age at the time of departure.
To complete the booking it is necessary to pay 100% of the amount of the trip.
In case of individual use of the cabin, an extra charge will be made on top of the normal fare.
Boarding information
Boarding is usually at 16:00 on the day of departure.
Disembarkation is at 10:00 a.m. on the last day of the trip, after breakfast.
The meeting point at the port of embarkation will be communicated by email 15 days before departure.
Additional information
Full board: breakfast, lunch and dinner
Refreshments (coffee, tea, water, juice) throughout the day
