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.
*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.
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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 days
From 1225 €/per person
23/12/2026 - 28/12/2026
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
23/12/2026 - 28/12/2026
5 days
Boarding harbor: Funchal (Portugal)
Disembarkation harbor: Funchal (Portugal)
Santa María Manuela: 4-masted schooner (44 people + crew)
From 1225 € / p.p
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
Our shared common cabins are well-lit, with additional ambient lighting through false windows and floor lights. These cabins are the largest on the ship and, as most are located on the second deck, are recommended for anyone looking for a peaceful night's sleep. Curtains on each berth provide privacy when needed. Each shared cabin has its own modern bathroom with shower and toilet.
Most of the shared cabins sleep up to four people, while two of the shared cabins can accommodate up to six. The latter also have windows overlooking the sea. For organisational reasons, the type of shared cabin cannot be chosen, and allocation is always between people of the same sex.
Life on board
Rates & availability
Our shared common cabins are well-lit, with additional ambient lighting through false windows and floor lights. These cabins are the largest on the ship and, as most are located on the second deck, are recommended for anyone looking for a peaceful night's sleep. Curtains on each berth provide privacy when needed. Each shared cabin has its own modern bathroom with shower and toilet.
Most of the shared cabins sleep up to four people, while two of the shared cabins can accommodate up to six. The latter also have windows overlooking the sea. For organisational reasons, the type of shared cabin cannot be chosen, and allocation is always between people of the same sex.
Our double-bed cabins are all located on the first deck and have portholes that provide natural light.
Each cabin has a private bathroom with modern shower and toilet.
Our bunk cabins have modern en-suite bathrooms with shower and toilet, as well as individual bedside lighting and USB socket.
Configuration: cabin with 2 bunk beds.
Single bedsAir conditioningWardrobePrivate bathroom
From 1400 € / per person
The master cabin is the largest and most comfortable cabin on board, with two portholes providing natural light and ocean views. The en-suite bathroom with shower and toilet adds to the level of comfort and convenience.
Configurations
Format 1: A double bed and sofa for couples who enjoy sailing getaways.
Format 2: A family room with a double bed and two bunk beds.