The Port of Funchal, in Pontinha, is very close to the Funchal historical, offering magnificent bay views sheltered by the majestic mountains.
- Coordinates: 32.642193, -16.916890
Upon arrival, we were immediately struck by the grandeur of the landscape. To learn about Funchal city, click Things To Do In Funchal.
Address:
Porto do Funchal, 9004-518 Funchal. This port was built in the 19th century, and its success is intimately linked to splendid climate and Madeira strategic location.
Phone:
291 208 600
Until the Second World War, it was a vital transit point for transatlantic packets, the old luxury ships that plied the waters of Europe, Africa, and America.
Soon, aeroplanes began to gain predominance.
Nowadays, Funchal port is a stopover point for large cruise ships, which call here before departing to various international destinations.
Funchal Port, Map
In 2022, over 3000 cruise ships arrived at the Port of Funchal, carrying nearly 250,000 tourists.
Funchal Cruise Terminal
The port is small, considering its international dimension – it can only accommodate one cruise ship at a time.
There is a Cruise Terminal with limited facilities.
The largest ship to dock in Funchal was the Carnival Celebration, measuring nearly 350 meters (the Titanic was 269 meters): with a capacity for 6400 people. It is a true giant of the oceans.
Ferry Madeira – Porto Santo at the Funchal Port
We can depart by boat from the port to the island of Porto Santo, which invariably enchants us. Countless spots in Porto Santo invite contemplation.
There are daily connections between the islands. It is a peaceful 2-hour journey on the “Lobo Marinho” ferry (more information at Porto Santo Line). Cars can be transported (up to 150 vehicles).
Price
The ticket costs €25 (round trip) in tourist class, covering the 70 kilometres that separate Funchal from Porto Santo.
Nearby Funchal Port
There is much to do in a short walk.
Design Centre Nini Andrade Silva opened in late 2015, is dedicated to the work of the famous interior designer, born in Funchal.
The centre is located in the ancestral Fortaleza da Nossa Senhora da Conceição, the former home of João Gonçalves Zarco, a Portuguese military and navigator who initiated Funchal settlement.
Inside, we discover a permanent exhibition of her work, a shop, a charming restaurant and a café with breathtaking views.
Open from 11:00 am daily, and worth our visit.
The Pestana CR7 Funchal Hotel and CR7 Museum is also within a stone’s throw of the Port and Marina of Funchal, where one can partake in leisurely boat excursions and cetacean watching.
For a more in-depth itinerary of sights to visit in Madeira, click Madeira Things To Do.
Whale & Dolphin Watching
Around 30 cetaceans species, including common dolphins and various types of whales, leap from Madeira’s deep waters.
Depending on the weather conditions, we have expeditions throughout the year. In addition to cetacean observation, there are gentle cruises that include stops for summertime diving.
There are many good options at the marina: try VENTURA Nature Emotions or Seaborn Catamaran.
Santa Maria Replica
Experience the thrill of discovery as a crew member on Christopher Columbus’ ship, the Santa Maria!
For just 35 euros, we embark on a unique journey around the island aboard a vessel’s replica that brought Christopher Columbus to the Americas.
