Santa Maria de Colombo
Marina do Funchal, Funchal, Madeira
When Columbus set sail for the New World in 1492, he did so on the Niña, the Pinta, and his flagship vessel, the Santa Maria. While the original Santa Maria did not survive the voyage, this recreation has been a highlight of Funchal and the Madeira region since its debut in 1998, and welcomes visitors aboard for sailing trips.
Constructed in the small fishing village of Câmara de Lobos, the Santa Maria de Colombo aims to bring 15th-century maritime history to life. The replica vessel is based on historical documents and makes an impressive spectacle on the water. The 72-foot (22-meter) ship is built from mahogany and features a 53-foot (16-meter) mast along with multiple sails.
You can admire the recreated galleon from the shore, or hop on board for a trip around Madeira’s southern coast. To beat the crowds and make your sailing experience even simpler, secure your tickets online before you travel. The cruise along the coast makes stops for swimming breaks during the summer.
- Both a bar and a bathroom are located on board.
- Keep a lookout and bring a camera with you: Many voyages on the Santa Maria de Colombo also double as dolphin-spotting excursions,
- Local Madeira wine and honey cake are frequently offered during cruises.
The Santa Maria de Colombo is located on Funchal’s waterfront, along the city’s marina, at Loja 3. The ticket office is situated separately just steps away. The marina is only moments from central Funchal and can be reached by taxi, by bike, by local bus services, or on foot.
Daily tours are offered from 10:30am–1:30pm and from 3–6pm. Book tickets online in advance to simplify your experience and guarantee a reservation.
In addition to the Santa Maria de Colombo, there are other transportation options for exploring Funchal’s coast. For a luxury experience, book a whale- or dolphin-spotting trip on a catamaran, join a hop-on hop-off bus tour to explore the city’s waterfront highlights, or book an excursion just beyond city limits to the Cabo Girão Skywalk: a glass-bottomed lookout point on one of the island’s highest sea cliffs.
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