Authentic sailing experience
Feel the power of wind in the sails and take part in a real sea adventure – without commercial gimmicks and crowds of tourists.
São Miguel – Funchal · 13–19 September 2026
This voyage links São Miguel in the Azores to Funchal in Madeira on a direct Atlantic passage of approximately 550 nautical miles.
13 September 2026 – 19 September 2026
6 nights
São Miguel – Funchal
Santa Maria Manuela
from€1,080/ person
This voyage links São Miguel in the Azores to Funchal in Madeira on a direct Atlantic passage of approximately 550 nautical miles.
Route
São Miguel - Funchal
Port
São MiguelFunchal
A tall ship cruise is more than a journey - it's an experience that stays with you for a long time
Why choose a Tall Ship cruise?
I want to set sail →Closeness to nature and peace
Immerse yourself in a world where time flows slower, and the only sound is the rush of waves and the crack of lines.
Cruises for everyone
Whether you have sailing experience or are taking your first steps on deck – you'll find a cruise tailored to your expectations and abilities.
Diversity of routes and ships
From short Baltic cruises to multi-week transatlantic voyages. Choose a cruise that fits your rhythm and dreams.
Check the voyage itinerary
Ponta Delgada, the beautiful capital of São Miguel in the Azores, captivates visitors with its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes. The historic center, featuring the impressive Church of São Sebastião and the City Gates, invites exploration of its colonial architecture. Don't miss the chance to stroll through the António Borges Garden, where lush flora intertwines with serene pathways. For food lovers, the famous Furnas stew is a must-try experience, along with the freshest fish and seafood dishes. Local markets, such as the Mercado da Graça, provide a true immersion into the flavors of the land, showcasing regional fruits, cheeses, and wines. Ponta Delgada is undoubtedly a destination that beautifully combines history, nature, and culinary delights in perfect harmony.
Arriving at São Miguel, you are greeted by the lush volcanic landscape that makes the Azores feel both dramatic and serene. From the harbour, the island’s green slopes, black lava coast, and the nearby town atmosphere invite you to explore a place shaped by the Atlantic, with scenic viewpoints and crater lakes further inland.
Funchal, the capital of Madeira on the Atlantic coast, is a strong sailing stop with a beautiful harbor and crystal-clear surrounding waters. Ashore, you can walk the cobbled streets, visit vibrant markets, and experience the city’s mix of maritime scenery, culture, and food. Mercado dos Lavradores is the center of the local culinary scene, offering fresh local produce, exotic fruits, and Madeira’s well-known black scabbardfish. Local specialties also include bolo do caco and Madeira wine. For sightseeing, Funchal offers notable cultural and historical stops, including the 15th-century Funchal Cathedral and the colorful murals of the old town. Its maritime heritage can be explored at the Museum of the History of Madeira or by visiting the Santa Maria, a replica of Christopher Columbus’s ship. Overall, Funchal combines harbor views, local cuisine, and cultural visits on and off the water.
Arriving in Funchal, you are met by Madeira’s steep green slopes rising above a broad harbour, with white buildings climbing the hillside and the Atlantic stretching open beyond the breakwaters. Nearby, the old town, waterfront promenade and the terraced landscape above the city give the port a bright, relaxed subtropical feel.
Places you'll visit
São Miguel
Arriving at São Miguel, you are greeted by the lush volcanic landscape that makes the Azores feel both dramatic and serene. From the harbour, the island’s green slopes, black lava coast, and the nearby town atmosphere invite you to explore a place shaped by the Atlantic, with scenic viewpoints and crater lakes further inland.
Funchal
Arriving in Funchal, you are met by Madeira’s steep green slopes rising above a broad harbour, with white buildings climbing the hillside and the Atlantic stretching open beyond the breakwaters. Nearby, the old town, waterfront promenade and the terraced landscape above the city give the port a bright, relaxed subtropical feel.
Frequently asked questions about tall ship cruises and sailing ships
Many leisure and introductory voyages accept guests without sailing experience. Training and expedition voyages may require active participation, minimum ages or a particular level of mobility. Check the operator's conditions for the exact voyage before booking.
Start with the operator's joining instructions because space, dress rules and required equipment vary by ship. Soft luggage, layered clothing, a waterproof outer layer, sun protection and operator-approved non-slip footwear are common recommendations. Ask a medical professional about suitable seasickness precautions if needed.
Choose a cruise on the Cruise Tall Ships site, click the offer and go to the operator's booking page. We do not charge fees – we connect you directly with the cruise organizer.
Choosing a tall ship cruise is more than just booking a vacation; it is an invitation to experience the timeless romance of the sea. Unlike modern, crowded cruise liners, a traditional sailing vessel offers an intimate atmosphere where the sound of the wind in the canvas replaces the hum of engines. Taking part in such a unique voyage allows you to connect with maritime heritage while enjoying the comforts of a modern leisure cruise. Whether it’s the thrill of seeing the horizon from a wooden deck, the spectacular sight of a full press of sail, or the chance to visit hidden coastal gems inaccessible to larger ships, a tall ship voyage offers a sense of freedom that is simply unmatched. It is the perfect choice for travelers seeking authenticity, tranquility, and a truly luxury sailing experience that stays with them long after they return to shore.
Tall ships cruises take place on many waters: Baltic, North Sea, Atlantic, Caribbean, Mediterranean and others. Each offer indicates the region and route.
Safety rules, vessel certification, briefings and required equipment depend on the ship, flag state, route and operator. Review the operator's current safety information and ask them directly about certification or accessibility before booking.
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Swimming requirements vary by operator and voyage. Do not assume that a life jacket removes an operator's swimming or mobility requirement; confirm the conditions for the specific departure.
