| Embark | Disembark | Vessel | Duration | Voyage No |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tue 08-04-2025, 16:00Funchal, Madeira | Mon 14-04-2025, 10:00Lisbon, Portugal | Santa Maria Manuela | 6 Nights | SM080425 V08 |
Sail from Funchal to Lisbon aboard the heritage schooner Santa Maria Manuela, exploring the Atlantic’s scenic wonders, rare wildlife, and timeless islands along the way.
| Vessel type / Rig | Gaff Schooner |
| Guest Berths | 50 |
| Beam | 33ft |
| Draft | 18ft |
| Deck Length | 173ft |
| Overall Length | 225ft |
| Tonnage | 992 tons |
| Year Built | 1937 |
This voyage suits adventurers who appreciate heritage sailing combined with modern comforts. If you’re captivated by the idea of exploring unique islands, experiencing rare wildlife sightings, and soaking up Portugal’s diverse coastal landscapes, this is the journey for you. Ideal for those with a love of maritime history and a curiosity about life aboard a classic four-masted schooner, the voyage offers a rare chance to blend luxury and discovery on the Atlantic.
You’ll depart from the vibrant port city of Funchal, Madeira’s lively capital known for its subtropical climate and mountainous terrain. Before departure, you might stroll through the historic old town, sample local wines, or take in the views from the famous Monte cable car. As you board Santa Maria Manuela, the warm Atlantic air and Madeira’s rugged cliffs set the stage for an unforgettable journey.
As Santa Maria Manuela heads north from Madeira, you’ll sail past the Ilhas Selvagens – the remote, unspoiled isles often referred to as the “Wild Islands.” These islands are a nature reserve, home to seabird colonies and rich marine life, with dolphins and even whales occasionally spotted along the route. As you travel further, the Atlantic’s expansive seascapes become your backdrop, with views of the Portuguese coastline unfolding as you approach the mainland.
During this voyage, you’ll experience a slower, more immersive form of travel, allowing you to fully take in the scenic beauty and abundant wildlife in these lesser-visited parts of the Atlantic. Expect days on open water with time to relax on deck, watching the horizon or perhaps learning a little about the schooner’s rigging and traditional sailing techniques from the crew.
Santa Maria Manuela arrives in Lisbon, where you can spend extra time soaking up the city’s blend of old-world charm and modern flair. Wander through the winding streets of Alfama, with its historic architecture and Fado music echoing from small bars, or visit Belém to explore iconic landmarks like the Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower. Lisbon’s waterside Time Out Market, filled with food stalls from top Portuguese chefs, is also worth a visit before heading home.
In April, the weather in the Atlantic between Funchal and Lisbon is generally mild, with temperatures around 18-22°C. Seas can be moderate with occasional swells, but nothing typically beyond the comfort of the Santa Maria Manuela’s sturdy frame. Winds are mostly northerly, pushing you smoothly along the route, and you may experience bursts of sunshine mixed with occasional showers as spring settles in. Conditions are suitable for those who are new to open-sea sailing as well as experienced sailors keen for a scenic, relaxed voyage.
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. While we hope you will enjoy taking part in the many aspects of sailing a traditional ship, please be aware that we can’t control the weather – there will be occasions when the conditions are just not congruent with sailing to your anticipated destination and an alternative itinerary will be offered. There may also be occasions when there isn’t the wind needed to sail and so the crew will utilise the ships engines (if installed). On rare occasions, the voyage may need to be delayed or cancelled – please see the vessel’s Terms and Conditions before booking.
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.
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.
If Funchal is your leaving port then arriving into Funchal by sea, offers stunning views of the city perched on an ancient volcanic slope. 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, Laurissilva of Madeira.
If you are flying in to join your ship then you may get a birds eye view of this volcanic jewel in the Atlantic Ocean, unless the trade wind mists are swirling on the summits.
You are going to be spending some time in the ports you embark and disembark from. These aren’t just logistical points; they’re opportunities for further enrichment. Take an extra day to discover what’s beyond the harbour. It’s not merely about filling time; it’s about making the entire journey worthwhile.
Keeping in Touch The exact location of your ship may not be known until closer to your joining time, you will be informed by email once the exact position has been confirmed. Make sure you take a note of the ship’s mobile/cell phone number with you in case you are delayed or there are any other problems on the day.
History Lisbon is a city steeped in maritime history. The Maritime Museum and the Jerónimos Monastery are a nod to Portugal’s illustrious sea voyages. For history buffs, the Alfama district is a labyrinth of narrow streets, capturing Lisbon’s Moorish past.
Culture Fado music often wafts through the air as you navigate the city’s hilly terrain. If you find yourself here in June, you’ll catch the vibrant Festas de Lisboa, featuring a parade of colourful sardine floats.
Sites of Interest to a Sailor From Lisbon’s shoreline, you might glimpse the towering statue of Christ the King and the 25 de Abril Bridge, a near-twin of San Francisco’s Golden Gate. The Tagus River offers natural shelter, historically providing a safe haven for sea vessels.
Entertainment You’ll find plenty of traditional Fado houses, jazz bars, and modern nightclubs. Docas de Santo Amaro is known for its nightlife where the quayside bars become vibrant as the sun sets.
Eating Out Don’t leave without tasting a pastel de nata. Seafood is, naturally, a staple, with bacalhau (salt cod) appearing in countless forms. For wine, you’d be amiss not to have a glass of vinho verde or port.
Nature Beyond the hustle and bustle, Lisbon has beautiful natural landscapes to offer, including the nearby Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, a grand blend of forested hills and rugged coastline.
Unique Features Lisbon’s trams are not only an effective way of tackling its many hills, but they offer a unique and historical ride through the city’s most scenic routes.
Accommodation For classic Portuguese grandeur, try the Pestana Palace or the Four Seasons Ritz Lisbon.
Official Tourist Website Visit Lisbon’s official tourism website for more information.
Weather Lisbon Winters are mild, with January hovering around 11°C. Spring offers pleasant temperatures, while summers can soar up to 30°C. Autumn is a transitional period, with mild to warm weather.
Sea and Beyond: A Responsible Mariner’s Guide Since you’re already investing in a unique sailing adventure, why not extend that spirit to your travel choices? Opt for more sustainable methods of transport where possible like trains, coaches or sharing a car. If you fly, and we realise this may well be the case, you could research some ways to offset the carbon created by the flight.
Special Interests If you have a special interest that you would like to find out about for this port or to tell us about, we would love to hear from you.
From the UK Lisbon is well connected by air to major cities in the UK. Alternatively, trains from London to Lisbon via Paris and Madrid are also available.
From Europe Trains and flights from several European cities make Lisbon easily accessible.
From North America Direct flights are available from several major cities in the United States and Canada.
From Australia While there are no direct flights from Australia, one-stop flights via Asian or Middle Eastern hubs are commonly used.
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
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