Lisbon to Madeira: Autumn Blue Water Sailing

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IDEAL VOYAGE FOR…

This voyage takes us from Portugal’s historic capital, to the semi tropical island of Madeira, stopping to swim in the clear blue waters of Porto Santo and stroll along its famous 9 km white sand beach.

We set sail on this iconic ocean voyage along Lisbon’s historic city shoreline, under the 25 de Abril suspension bridge and into the setting sun. With 521 nautical miles of open ocean ahead there is an open invitation to get fully involved in all aspects of sailing, from helming to trimming sails and from navigation to going aloft. When you are not involved in the sailing there’s plenty of time to fish, read, play board games or share sailing stories by the bar.

During this iconic ocean voyage you may find it impossible not to be captivated by the beauty and power of the ocean. As we venture further into the Atlantic Ocean it may seem equally impossible that man could have had any negative impact on such a remote stretch of water. It is at this point that, thanks to the support of our partners atWaste Free Oceans,we invite our guests to participate in our citizen science project to help assess the purity of the waters in which we sail. At intervals during the voyage, we will trawl a small net to capture what is floating in the ocean, be it plankton, fish or small pieces of ocean litter and microplastics. Many find it shocking to find evidence of mans impact on the environment hundreds of miles offshore, but seeing this has a powerful effect, inspiring us to take action. Your contribution will help raise awareness, and inspire change.

Porto Santos’ nine golden kilometers of fine sand, bathed by the turquoise waters of the Atlantic provides an enviable view for the passengers of Santa Maria Manuela as we arrive in Porto Santo. The ship anchors right in front of this beach, which in 2012 was voted by ‘7 Wonders: Beaches of Portugal’ as “the best dune beach”, and is said to have medicinal qualities. After a dip in the tepid waters of Porto Santo there is nothing better than relaxing in the sand dunes before returning to the ship for sundowners.

Arriving into Funchal by sea offers stunning views of the city perched on an ancient volcanic slope, a mecca for hikers, cyclists, and golfers. Shadowing the city are impressive mountains covered in laurel bushes and banana trees, a natural park which was nominated a UNESCO Word Heritage site in 1999.
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Embark on an unforgettable tall ship voyage that will awaken your sense of adventure and connect you with the wonders of the ocean. Join us as we set sail from the historic capital of Portugal, Lisbon, and chart a course towards the enchanting island of Madeira. Along the way, indulge in the crystal-clear blue waters of Porto Santo, where you can swim and stroll along its renowned 9 km stretch of pristine white sand.

As we embark on this iconic ocean voyage, you’ll witness the awe-inspiring sight of Lisbon’s historic city shoreline slipping away behind us. Feel the thrill as we pass beneath the majestic 25 de Abril suspension bridge, with the setting sun casting its golden glow upon us. With 521 nautical miles of open ocean awaiting us, you’ll have a unique opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the art of sailing. Take the helm, trim the sails, navigate the ship, or even climb aloft if you dare! There’s no limit to the ways you can engage in the seafaring experience. And when you’re not actively involved in sailing, you can relax and enjoy activities like fishing, reading, playing board games, or simply swapping tales of the sea at the ship’s bar.

Prepare to be captivated by the beauty and raw power of the ocean as we venture further into the vast expanse of the Atlantic. Surrounded by this remote stretch of water, it may seem unimaginable that human activity could have left any negative impact here. However, we’re partnering with Waste Free Oceans to shed light on the purity of these waters. As part of our citizen science project, you’ll have the opportunity to contribute to assessing the health of the ocean we sail through. At intervals during the voyage, we’ll trawl a small net to collect samples of floating matter, ranging from plankton and fish to fragments of ocean litter and microplastics. Witnessing firsthand the shocking evidence of humanity’s impact on the environment hundreds of miles offshore will stir something within you—an undeniable call to take action. By joining this project, your contribution will raise awareness and inspire positive change.

Our arrival at Porto Santo unveils a breathtaking scene—a golden coastline stretching for nine kilometers, blessed by the turquoise embrace of the Atlantic. The Santa Maria Manuela drops anchor right in front of this idyllic beach, which has rightfully earned the title of “the best dune beach” by ‘7 Wonders: Beaches of Portugal’ in 2012. Legend has it that the waters possess medicinal qualities, adding a touch of magic to your refreshing dip. After immersing yourself in the tepid embrace of Porto Santo’s waves, indulge in moments of pure relaxation amidst the serene sand dunes before returning to the ship for a tranquil sunset experience.

And when we finally approach Funchal, you’ll be greeted with awe-inspiring views of this city perched upon ancient volcanic slopes—a true haven for hikers, cyclists, and golfers alike. Behold the majestic mountains adorned with laurel bushes and banana trees, forming a natural park that earned UNESCO World Heritage recognition in 1999. The allure of Funchal beckons, promising adventures and discoveries at every turn.

Come, join us on this incredible tall ship voyage and unlock a world of breathtaking landscapes, thrilling experiences, and meaningful connections with the ocean. Embrace the call of the sea and create lasting memories on this voyage of a lifetime

Santa Maria Manuela has a home port of Lisbon and uses her local waters to advantage. She offers mini ocean passages from Portugal out to the Madeira and the Azores island groups, as well as these coastal hops along the Portugal and Spanish coast. The ship has large ships RIB (rigid inflatable) to take you ashore to explore.There is plenty to do, or you can lie on a deck lounger after you have set sails and admire your hard work. The ship has kayaks and stand up paddle boards (SUP) and several of the professional deck crew have dual roles as water-sports instructors or guides.

 

WIND & WEATHER

The weather should be warm and sunny but the winds are typically from the North so you might have to tack quite a lot, or do a bit of strategic motoring.

HANDS ON HOLIDAYS

Whether you are an experienced sailor or a complete beginner, the professional crew will train you to be guest crew from the moment you arrive, with the intention that everybody works together to sail the ship. The common thread to all Classic Sailing holidays is ‘Hands on’ participation on ships that use ropes, blocks and tackles and ‘people power’ to set sail.

SAILING STYLE & LIFE ON BOARD

We cater for a wide range of ages and physical abilities and how much you are expected to do varies a bit between vessels. See the vessel tab above which explains all about the ‘sailing style’ and what to expect in terms of hands on participation. There is a lot of information about day to day life, the ships facilities and accommodation on the vessel pages.

AGILITY & FITNESS

Every customer sailing with us will need to fill in basic medical questions on their booking application. If you are not sure if your current level of fitness and agility are up to a voyage, then please ring the Classic Sailing Office on 01326 53 1234 and we can chat through your concerns and possibly find options that might suit you better.

What to pack for a sailing holiday on Santa Maria Manuela

Below is a recommended travel packing list for a sailing voyage.

Included

• Sailing Instruction
• Safety Equipment (Life jackets and harnesses)
• All meals to include cooked breakfast, lunch, dinner and refreshments throughout the day.
• Bed linen, duvet, towels for cabin (but please bring your own beach towel)

What is Not Included

• Waterproof jacket and trousers
• Travel to and from the start and end port
• Optional trips or tours taken ashore unless otherwise stated
• Alcoholic Beverages , but you can purchase drinks from the bar (you can set up a tab and pay at the end).

What to Bring

For any destination north of Cape Verde warm and waterproof clothing is very important, as it can get cold during sailing, especially at night, even in the summer. A waterproof and windproof jacket is recommended to help keep warm and dry. Waterproof rubber soled boots or shoes are also recommended to keep your feet dry and warm. It is a good idea to bring two pairs of shoes in case one gets wet as salt water soaked shoes take a while to dry. Madeira, Portugal and the Azores in summer can get pretty hot and it is easy to get sunburn at sea as the air is clear. The Cape Verde are in a tropical climate so a good sun screen is essential. Please remember that space on board is limited and pack accordingly. Pack comfortable and practical clothing for all weather circumstances, the key is layers!! It is recommended to pack in a soft bag that can be easily stored away as there is no room on board for suitcases. Electricity on board is European 2 pin sockets, please be sure to bring any adaptors you may need.

Passports, Visas and Insurance

If you voyage is sailing in foreign waters, you will require a full passport that is valid for at least 6 months after the end of the voyage. You will be responsible for obtaining any necessary visas. We have Third Party Liability Insurance and recommend all those sailing with us to take out relevant travel insurance to cover their voyage.

Medical Conditions and Special Diets

Please inform us in advance of any medical conditions you have and medication which you might need to bring with you. If you have any special dietary requirements it is essential you inform us prior to your voyage. We will make every effort to cater for all diets with prior notice.

Personal Items

This is a list of the items we recommend you bring with you.

• Warm hat and sun hat
• gloves - either sailing gloves or gardening type gloves
• Wet weather clothing – water proof and windproof jacket
• Clothing – enough clothing for all weather circumstances (think layers!!)
• Trainers or deck shoes
• shorts and t shirts
• nightwear (ear plugs ?)
• Toiletries
• Towels
• swimwear (googles are useful)
• Sun cream
• Sunglasses
• Sea sickness medication
• Personal medication
• Book
• Small torch (head torches are good!)
• Camera
• Log book (if you have one)
• Valid passport (voyages outside the UK)
• Travel insurance

Extras

• Musical instruments
• games or cards
• book/kindle

You can buy Santa Maria Manuela caps on board.

Diving Holidays on Santa Maria Manuela - Kit List

Please note the ship will only be carrying scuba diving equipment on the specialist diving voyages. On a diving voyage - Bottles and weights are included in the voyage price. If you need diving equipment other than bottles and weights it is €150 extra Nitrox costs €5 euros a dive Classic Sailing will expand on this kit list shortly.

We had the most amazing time. The crew were so friendly and helpful, the food was great throughout, and the cabins were really comfortable. We both climbed the rigging as the sun was setting over Porto Santo to round off a brilliant last day with the new friends we met. Thanks for the wonderful experience.

Ian & Dayna

I have sailed many times on tall ships, this is by far the best yet.

Richard

 

Terrific crew and ship and a lovely passage to the Azores. Crew and guests were very good and patient with someone who only spoke English. This is a terrifically well run vessel. Excellent accommodation, well serviced by a professional crew. All very friendly, helpful and willing to give information throughout. Many opportunities to get involved in most aspects of the ships operations. Very many thanks.

Keith

An amazing ship and amazing crew.

David

We had a terrific and adventurous time on board during Sachsen Sail in the Bay of Biscay. Thank you to all Santa Maria Manuela crew members!

Mario

Un voilier merveilleux avec un équipage très sympathique. Merci pour tout.

A splendid ship with a very kind crew. Thank you for everything.

Marie-Francoise