Current Weather in Quinta do Lorde15°C • 15 kn • NNELive Forecast
Sailing Itinerary
Madeira and Porto Santo: 8-Day Sailing Itinerary from Quinta do Lorde
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Complete Itinerary
Detailed day-by-day guide with insider tips, ratings, and everything you need to know.
Settle in and hike Ponta de São Lourenço
Arrive at Marina Quinta do Lorde, complete check-in, and stretch your legs on the cliff walk at Ponta de São Lourenço for golden-hour views over Baía d’Abra.
Mooring Information
Marina Quinta do Lorde provides serviced berths with water, power, fuel, and 24/7 security; confirm berth assignment at the marina office on arrival.
Approach from the north side of Ponta de São Lourenço with care in swell; keep well off the headland to avoid rebound seas.
Marina staff monitor VHF 16 and a local working channel; hail the marina on approach for docking assistance.
Depths are ample for cruising yachts; keep speed minimal inside the marina to reduce wake.
Complete check-in formalities, arrange key cards, and confirm fuel hours if you plan an early departure next day.
Top Restaurants
Gavião Novo (Funchal) for classic Madeiran seafood and friendly service in the old town.
Taberna Ruel (Funchal) for local staples like black scabbardfish and limpets.
Seafront grills in Machico for casual fish of the day within a short taxi ride.
Caniçal waterfront cafés for light bites and espresso before or after the hike.
Bakery stops in Machico for fresh pão de caco to stock for the week.
Activities
Hike part of the Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço; carry water and sun protection.
Swim or paddle in the calm marina basin to shake out travel stiffness.
Take a short taxi to Machico for a beach stroll and last-minute provisions.
Run through a vessel safety briefing and familiarize the crew with jacklines and night lighting.
Watch sunset from the Baía d’Abra ridge before a relaxed onboard dinner.
Water Sports
Snorkel along the rocky edges of Baía d’Abra in settled morning conditions.
Stand-up paddle inside the marina basin where boat traffic is minimal.
Kayak along the sheltered side of the peninsula early, returning before the afternoon breeze.
Practice mask-and-snorkel checks and buddy procedures ahead of the week.
Swim laps inside the marina’s designated areas, avoiding fairways.
Drone Spots
Baía d’Abra ridgelines for low, lateral passes highlighting cliff strata at first light.
Ponta do Rosto viewpoint for wide panoramas of the peninsula’s serrated coast.
Cliff edges above Ilhéu do Farol for dramatic seascapes; maintain safe clearance from people.
Coastal curves between Caniçal and Baía d’Abra for contrasty rock textures in afternoon light.
Check ANAC rules, local NOTAMs, and airport control areas; keep flights below 120 m AGL and avoid wildlife.
Must See
Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço, a cliff-top trail with sweeping Atlantic views and layered volcanic rock.
Miradouro da Ponta do Rosto for sunrise or late-afternoon light over Baía d’Abra.
Caniçal’s small waterfront and maritime heritage displays near the harbor.
Praia de Machico’s sheltered bay for an easy first swim of the trip.
Ilhéu do Farol (lighthouse islet) at the tip of the peninsula, visible from the trail.
Services
Fuel, water, shore power, and waste disposal available at the marina.
Taxi and transfer services connect the marina with Machico and the airport.
Basic chandlery items and ice can be sourced via the marina office or nearby shops.
Trailhead access for Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço is a short drive from the marina.
Wi‑Fi and showers are available in the marina complex; ask for access codes at check-in.
Hazards
Strong gusts can funnel over the Ponta de São Lourenço ridge; mind sail covers and lines.
Rebound swell near the headland may affect the marina entrance in westerly seas.
Steep, exposed cliff sections on the hike require care and proper footwear.
Summer sun is intense; heat and dehydration are common on the treeless peninsula.
Watch for slippery algae on marina ladders and steps when swimming.
Tips
Consult the latest IPMA forecast and local notices to mariners before planning hikes or swims.
Expect acceleration zones near headlands; secure halyards and covers to reduce noise at night.
Hydrate and wear grippy shoes on the cliff paths, which can be dusty and exposed.
Pre-provision in Machico or Funchal if you prefer fewer marina stops later in the week.
Set quiet hours aboard to rest ahead of the coastal run tomorrow.
Coastal hop to Funchal, then on to Calheta
Depart early for a short visit ashore in Funchal, then continue west along Madeira’s south coast to Calheta for a sheltered overnight in the marina.
Mooring Information
Call ahead for a day berth in Funchal; short-stay options are available for quick shore visits.
Expect ferry and cruise wakes in Funchal’s bay; use spring lines and extra fenders if stopping.
Continue to Calheta Marina for overnight; berths offer good shelter, water, and shore power.
Fuel is available at Calheta; confirm operating hours if planning an early departure next day.
Anchoring options along the south coast are limited by depth and swell; marinas are the most reliable stop.
Top Restaurants
Gavião Novo (Funchal) for seafood classics in the old town.
Taberna Ruel (Funchal) for scabbardfish and local starters.
O Polar (Câmara de Lobos) for traditional espetada skewers en route west.
Waterfront cafés in Calheta Marina for easy dinners near the berth.
Gelato and bakeries along Calheta’s promenade for dessert and breakfast.
Activities
Stretch your legs with a short walk in Funchal before continuing west.
Time a mid-day swim stop in settled weather en route, keeping clear of swim buoys.
Practice stern-to or alongside berthing drills on arrival in Calheta.
Refill water tanks and top up provisions for the longer day tomorrow.
Evening stroll along Calheta’s beach to unwind after the coastal run.
Water Sports
Snorkel in clear patches along the south coast in calm conditions.
SUP inside Calheta’s breakwaters where protection from swell is best.
Short kayak sessions near the marina, avoiding entrances and fairways.
Practice towing a tender safely at low speed between marinas.
Light swimming at Calheta’s man-made beach with lifeguard zones in summer.
Drone Spots
Funchal bay from the marina side for wide harbor vistas; avoid busy areas.
Cabo Girão cliffline from offshore vantage points for dramatic shots.
Calheta’s harbor curves and golden beach at sunset for warm tones.
Jardim do Mar and Paul do Mar cliffs when passing offshore; keep distance.
Always check ANAC guidance and avoid airport zones near Funchal’s approach.
Must See
Funchal’s Zona Velha (old town) and seafront promenade for a quick taste of the capital.
Mercado dos Lavradores for fruits, spices, and fish if time allows.
Câmara de Lobos’ colorful boats as you pass westbound along the coast.
Cabo Girão’s towering cliffs, visible from offshore on the way to Calheta.
Calheta’s sheltered sandy beach and evening light along the marina promenade.
Services
Fuel, water, and power available at both Funchal and Calheta marinas.
Waste and recycling points signposted near marina gates.
Taxis and rideshares are readily available from both marinas for quick errands.
Grocery top-ups possible in Funchal’s city center and supermarkets near Calheta.
Public restrooms and showers are accessible with marina key cards.
Hazards
Heavy vessel traffic in Funchal including ferries; keep clear of turning basins.
Occasional katabatic gusts off Cabo Girão can spike wind speeds abruptly.
Fishing buoys and nets may lie close inshore; maintain a vigilant lookout.
Rebound swell against cliffed shoreline can be uncomfortable for close-passing boats.
Afternoon sea breeze increases between headlands; reef early if needed.
Tips
Leave early to secure time ashore in Funchal and arrive in Calheta before the afternoon breeze peaks.
Book Calheta berths in high season; marinas can fill by late afternoon.
Maintain a safe offing from cliffs to avoid rebound swell and gusts.
Keep a listening watch on VHF 16 and the marinas’ working channels.
Respect swim zones around beaches; many are buoyed and off-limits to craft.
Swim stop, sunset on the northwest tip, then a night passage
Depart late morning for a swim near Paul do Mar, enjoy sunset off Ponta Tristão, then set up night watches for the open-ocean crossing to Porto Santo, arriving around sunrise.
Mooring Information
Paul do Mar is exposed; use only a brief swim stop in settled seas and keep a safe offing.
Ponta Tristão offers no shelter; plan to observe sunset offshore and continue into the night.
Aim to reach the Porto Santo approach at first light; call the marina on VHF on final approach.
Anchoring off Porto Santo’s south beach is possible in settled weather outside swim buoys.
Berths at Porto Santo Marina include water and power; confirm space if arriving in peak season.
Top Restaurants
Casual snack bars along Paul do Mar’s promenade are handy for a quick bite if you pause ashore.
Simple cafés in Jardim do Mar serve coffee and light meals earlier in the day.
Plan dinner aboard for the overnight; prepare easy, warm dishes before dusk.
In Porto Santo after arrival, beachfront eateries in Vila Baleira open early for breakfast.
Try ‘pão de caco’ with garlic butter on Porto Santo as a post-passage treat.
Activities
Enjoy a controlled swim stop near Paul do Mar with an engine on standby and a posted lookout.
Set a conservative reefing plan before dusk to simplify night handling.
Run night watches in pairs, logging positions hourly and monitoring AIS and radar if fitted.
Prepare hot drinks and snacks within easy reach to keep crew alert overnight.
Review approach waypoints and leading lights for Porto Santo before dark.
Water Sports
Short swim in clear water near Paul do Mar in calm conditions.
No in-water activity after dusk; focus on safe passage-making.
Upon morning arrival, plan a snorkel or paddle in Porto Santo’s lee.
Secure all loose water toys before sunset to keep decks clear.
Dry suits or light thermal layers help maintain comfort on a cool night watch.
Drone Spots
Drone flying is not advised during passage; save batteries for calm, daylight conditions.
On arrival, capture Porto Santo’s long arc of beach from outside the harbor entrance.
Zimbralinho cove provides dramatic contrasts for aerial shots in calm weather.
Miradouro do Portela’s windmills and beach below offer strong compositions.
Mind Porto Santo Airport airspace; check local NOTAMs and avoid CTR/approach paths.
Must See
The rugged cliffs between Jardim do Mar and Paul do Mar, a hallmark of Madeira’s wild west.
Sunset colors off Ponta Tristão, with long views into the Atlantic.
Star fields and, on moonless nights, a bright Milky Way during the passage.
Bioluminescence in your wake if conditions are calm and dark.
First light over Porto Santo’s golden beach as you make landfall.
Services
Porto Santo Marina offers water, power, showers, and fuel; confirm hours on arrival.
ATMs and grocery stores are a short walk from the marina in Vila Baleira.
Waste disposal and recycling points are located near marina gates.
Taxis can be arranged from the marina to reach shops or viewpoints later in the day.
Basic repair assistance may be coordinated via the marina office.
Hazards
Acceleration zones and confused seas along Madeira’s northwest can build steep chop.
Atlantic swell wraps around headlands; maintain an offshore track for comfort.
Fishing gear and unlit pots may be present; use a powerful torch and bow watch.
Fatigue is a risk on night passages; rotate watches and hydrate often.
Approach lights and buoys at Porto Santo should be identified in advance to avoid misinterpretation at dawn.
Tips
Confirm ferry schedules and keep clear of the Porto Santo Line route.
Rig jacklines and require PFDs and tethers on deck after sunset.
Brief on light discipline, lookout duties, and man-overboard procedures before dark.
Use red lights below decks to preserve night vision.
Keep a conservative speed and course if swell and wind are crossed and confused.
Beach day and gentle exploring
Enjoy Porto Santo’s clear water and soft sand, explore viewpoints and the small town of Vila Baleira, and take a relaxed day to recharge.
Mooring Information
Porto Santo Marina provides good shelter and straightforward berthing; check dock assignments on arrival.
Anchoring off the south beach is feasible in settled weather well outside swim buoys.
Depths shelve gradually off the beach; ensure adequate scope in sandy patches with room to swing.
Use a stern line or kellet if light afternoon swell rolls into the anchorage.
Call the marina on VHF for berth changes or assistance; maintain a listening watch on channel 16.
Top Restaurants
Beachfront eateries along Vila Baleira’s promenade for fresh grilled fish.
Pé na Água (beachfront) is popular for simple seafood and views.
Cafés near the marina serve hearty breakfasts post‑passage.
Local bakeries for bolo do caco sandwiches and sweet pastries.
Ice-cream shops by the promenade for a cool afternoon treat.
Activities
Rent bicycles or scooters near the marina to explore the island at a relaxed pace.
Beachcomb and swim along the shallows where the water is clearest.
Visit Vila Baleira’s small squares and cafés for an easy lunch.
Time a late-afternoon walk to Portela for soft light over the beach.
Restock light provisions and ice for tomorrow’s island tour and night passage.
Water Sports
SUP along the lee of the beach in calm morning conditions.
Snorkel near rocky ends of the beach where fish life is more active.
Kayak to small coves; return before the afternoon breeze builds.
Beginner-friendly swimming in gently sloping shallows near lifeguard zones.
Casual beach games and fitness swims to stretch after the previous night’s passage.
Drone Spots
Golden-hour flyovers of the dune-backed beach from north to south.
Zimbralinho’s rocky pocket bay with teal water for top-down shots.
Portela windmills and the sinuous beach below for drone panoramas.
The pier and harbor area from a safe distance, avoiding crowds and boats.
Comply with ANAC rules and remain clear of Porto Santo Airport’s controlled airspace.
Must See
The 9‑km golden beach along the south coast for long, barefoot walks.
Miradouro do Portela with views over the beach and traditional windmills.
Pico do Castelo for a short hike and a panorama of the island.
Zimbralinho cove for crystalline water and photogenic rocks.
Christopher Columbus House Museum in Vila Baleira for a quick cultural stop.
Services
Fuel, water, power, showers, and Wi‑Fi at Porto Santo Marina.
Bike and scooter rentals available near the marina and beach.
Grocery stores and ATMs within walking distance in Vila Baleira.
Laundry services can be arranged via the marina or local shops.
Medical center and pharmacy in town for minor needs.
Hazards
Swell can occasionally enter the marina and anchorage; use chafe protection on lines.
Afternoon crosswinds along the beach can push tenders sideways; row or motor with care.
Occasional jellyfish; consider a quick water check before long swims.
Crowded swim zones in high season are strictly off-limits to craft.
Sun and heat exposure; plan mid-day shade breaks.
Tips
Reserve marina berths in summer; Porto Santo is popular on calm weeks.
Use plenty of sunscreen and water; the beach is exposed with little shade.
Avoid anchoring on rock; seek sand patches and confirm with a mask check if possible.
Keep dinghy speeds low near swim zones and marked areas.
Plan an early evening to rest ahead of tomorrow’s circumnavigation and night crossing.
Explore bays by day, depart after dusk for the Desertas
Spend the day exploring Porto Santo’s bays by boat, then depart after sunset for a peaceful night crossing toward the Desertas Islands.
Mooring Information
Choose lee-side bays for lunchtime stops and check holding in sand before leaving the boat.
Avoid tight coves in rising breeze; leave room to swing and a clear exit path.
Return near the marina by late afternoon to prep for departure and confirm fuel hours.
Stage outside the harbor at dusk to set sails and establish watches in clear water.
Expect a largely open run to the Desertas with few shelter options; commit in settled weather only.
Top Restaurants
Opt for an early shoreside lunch in Vila Baleira before the bay tour.
Stock pão de caco, fruit, and prepared meals for the night crossing.
Pick up local cookies and coffee from town cafés for dawn arrivals.
Keep dinner simple aboard—soups and stews work best in motion.
Celebrate with a hot breakfast on deck after landfall at the Desertas.
Activities
Snorkel and SUP in sheltered bays before afternoon wind builds.
Picnic lunch aboard and a swim-off the stern in clear, sandy shallows.
Rig preventers, check navigation lights, and secure gear for the passage.
Brief the crew on watch rotations and call‑the‑skipper triggers.
Double-check the Desertas permit status and contact details for park rangers.
Water Sports
SUP sessions in glassy morning water close to the boat.
Snorkeling over sand-and-rock transitions where fish congregate.
Light trolling at 5–6 knots between bays if regulations permit.
Short freedives in buddy pairs with a surface watch.
Rinse and stow gear before sunset to keep decks clear for night ops.
Drone Spots
Ilhéu de Cima lighthouse from afar for sweeping coastal frames.
The long south beach for abstract shoreline patterns from above.
Northern cliffs for dramatic textures in low sun and light winds.
Sunset departure sequences as you leave the island’s lee.
Check airport control zones and avoid flights near populated beaches.
Must See
Turquoise pockets along the island’s north and east shores on calm days.
Long perspectives of Porto Santo’s beach from just offshore.
Ilhéu de Cima’s lighthouse silhouette at golden hour (viewed from a respectful distance).
Cave-cut cliffs with striking geology visible from the water.
Stars emerging as you clear the island’s lee at nightfall.
Services
Refuel and top up water at Porto Santo Marina before departing.
Dispose of trash and recycling before leaving the island.
Purchase ice and last‑minute provisions near the marina.
Request a quick local weather briefing from marina staff if available.
Check nav lights, spare fuses, and headlamp batteries before nightfall.
Hazards
Afternoon chop along exposed shores makes some bays untenable; move early if conditions change.
Submerged rocks and shallow ledges near headlands require careful eyeball navigation.
Night debris risk increases after storms; maintain a vigilant bow watch.
Limited diversion options between Porto Santo and the Desertas; ensure engine readiness.
Fatigue management is crucial on back‑to‑back passages; rotate watches and hydrate.
Tips
Monitor IPMA updates and sea state; postpone the crossing if swell stacks against the wind.
Confirm all hatches, lockers, and companionways are secured before dark.
Prepare thermos flasks and easy snacks for the helm and lookout.
Log positions hourly and cross-check GPS with visual bearings where possible.
Reef conservatively; comfort and control trump speed overnight.
Anchor in a pristine nature reserve
Arrive near the Desertas at sunrise, anchor in the designated area with prior authorization, and spend a quiet day enjoying clear water and stark volcanic scenery.
Mooring Information
Anchoring is allowed only in designated zones with prior authorization from the Madeira Natural Park.
Expect sand patches with rock nearby; set and back down gently to confirm holding.
Mooring buoys may be present in season; follow ranger instructions if provided.
Use a stern line or second anchor to limit swing if swell wraps into the cove.
Maintain anchor lights and keep decks tidy for safe, low‑light movement at night.
Top Restaurants
No restaurants on the Desertas—plan all meals on board today.
Bake or reheat simple dishes that require minimal galley time.
Bring extra drinking water and fresh fruit for a low‑effort lunch.
Enjoy a sunset snack platter on deck to minimize cabin heat.
Coffee at dawn pairs perfectly with the quiet anchorage.
Activities
Request a guided ranger visit if available and permitted.
Swim off the stern in calm periods with a posted lookout.
Quiet wildlife watching from deck with binoculars; avoid disturbance.
Photography sessions capturing textures and silhouettes of cliffs.
Read, rest, and reset after two longer passages.
Water Sports
Snorkel close to the boat in good visibility; buddy up and use a float.
SUP loops around the anchorage; avoid landing where prohibited.
Short kayak paddles in calm, avoiding surge zones near rocks.
No fishing or spearfishing—this is a protected reserve.
Use a ladder or swim platform for safe re‑boarding in swell.
Drone Spots
Drone flights are generally discouraged due to wildlife sensitivity; if allowed, keep far from colonies.
Limited, low-altitude passes over open water can capture cliff profiles without approaching ledges.
Early morning light emphasizes rock textures and shadows from a safe distance.
Avoid overflying boats and never fly near seals or nesting birds.
Always follow ANAC rules and any ranger guidance on site.
Must See
The arid cliff faces and striking geology unique to the Desertas.
Seabird activity along ledges, especially around early morning and dusk.
Clear water around the anchorage with visibility for spotting fish and rays.
Ranger station area on Deserta Grande where briefings may be offered.
Night skies free of light pollution for serene stargazing.
Services
No shore services; the anchorage is entirely self-sufficient.
Maintain a VHF watch on 16 and monitor weather updates.
Conserve battery power and manage charging cycles while at anchor.
Double‑check first aid and emergency gear accessibility.
Keep a tender ready but avoid unauthorized landings.
Hazards
Katabatic gusts can descend suddenly from cliffs; keep sails secured.
Surge near rocky shorelines can capsize tenders; stay well off.
Rock and coral heads near the fringes—snorkel to verify swing room if visibility allows.
Protected species are sensitive to disturbance; maintain low noise and wide distances.
Limited mobile coverage may affect weather updates—download forecasts in advance.
Tips
Apply for anchoring permission well in advance; carry confirmation on board.
Operate quietly—sound carries across the reserve and can disturb wildlife.
Use biodegradable cleaners and retain all waste on board.
Keep swimming tight to the boat and avoid surge-prone corners of the cove.
Set chafe guards on the rode if gentle surge is forecast.
A last wild bay and a sunset finish
Sail north to Baía d’Abra for a swim-and-hike stop if conditions allow, then round into Marina Quinta do Lorde for sunset docking and a celebratory evening.
Mooring Information
Anchor at Baía d’Abra only in settled weather, keeping clear of rocky fringes and the swim area.
Use a shore line or stern anchor to reduce swing if wind and swell are cross‑set.
Return to Marina Quinta do Lorde by mid‑afternoon to secure your berth for the night.
Refuel on arrival if needed to avoid morning queues at the fuel dock.
Confirm key-card returns and checkout timing with the marina office.
Top Restaurants
Casual waterfront spots near the marina for fresh fish and espetada.
Machico’s seafront restaurants offer broader menus a short taxi away.
Order a simple seafood rice or limpets to celebrate the final night.
Grab pastries or pão de caco nearby for tomorrow morning.
Enjoy a sunset drink at a marina café with views over the pontoons.
Activities
Morning swim and quick snorkel in Baía d’Abra if visibility is good.
Short hike from the anchorage trailhead for ridge‑top photos.
Casual lunch on board before a tidy-up sail back to the marina.
Rinse gear, stow lines, and prep for tomorrow’s checkout.
Toast the week’s sailing with a relaxed dinner ashore or on board.
Water Sports
Short SUP sessions in the lee of the cove when wind is light.
Casual snorkeling around rock-sand transitions; keep a buddy system.
Kayak close to the boat, avoiding surge near cliffs.
No fishing inside or near protected coastal zones.
Cool‑down swims off the stern before departing the anchorage.
Drone Spots
Ridge lines around Baía d’Abra for top‑down coastal textures.
Ilhéu do Farol framed by the peninsula’s serrations.
Evening light across the marina breakwater and moored yachts.
Cliff patterns east of the bay for oblique aerials in low wind.
Respect airport control areas and avoid flying over people and boats.
Must See
Baía d’Abra’s layered volcanic ridges and bright blue water.
The cliff walk toward Ponta de São Lourenço from the bay’s trailhead.
Views to Ilhéu do Farol at the tip of the peninsula.
Sunset colors over the marina and eastern headlands.
Quiet evening strolls along the pontoons with views back to the bay.
Services
Fuel, water, and power at Marina Quinta do Lorde on arrival.
Showers and laundry facilities accessible with marina access cards.
Taxi services for quick trips to Machico or the airport.
Waste and recycling points by the main gates for end‑of‑trip disposal.
Assistance with lines and docking from marina staff during crosswinds.
Hazards
Gusts at Baía d’Abra can veer quickly; keep a conservative scope and watch.
Rock shelves border the bay; verify swing room visually.
Swimmers and small craft frequent the bay in good weather—post a lookout.
Swell rebound near cliffs can destabilize tenders; keep distance.
Marina entrance may be rolly with easterly swell; enter at slow speed.
Tips
Arrive early to find space at Baía d’Abra; it’s popular in settled weather.
Expect gusts funneling through saddles; keep a close anchor watch.
Complete fueling and paperwork this afternoon to ease tomorrow’s checkout.
Check lines and fenders for chafe if a nighttime breeze develops in the marina.
Pack snorkel and camera gear for quick deployment at the bay.
Handover and departure
Complete formalities, fuel receipts, and a smooth handover at Marina Quinta do Lorde. Squeeze in a final walk or quick swim if time allows before transfers.
Mooring Information
Confirm fuel top-up and obtain a receipt before final inspection.
Return access cards and keys to the marina office during posted hours.
Check lines for chafe and leave the boat secure with shore power off if instructed.
Arrange a short‑stay berth if you plan a last walk or café stop before transfers.
Keep the VHF on for any last-minute communication from the marina team.
Top Restaurants
A marina café for quick breakfasts and coffees before departure.
Seafront bakeries in Machico for fresh pastries and sandwiches.
Simple seafood lunches nearby if your flight is later in the day.
Local grocery delis for prepared salads and fruit for the road.
Ice cream on the promenade as a final island treat.
Activities
Complete inventory checklist and note any issues for a smooth handover.
Clean and dry deck gear before stowage to prevent mildew.
Sort trash and recycling and clear the fridge.
Confirm airport transfers and travel timing with your crew.
Enjoy a last espresso at a marina café before heading out.
Water Sports
A short marina‑side paddle or swim only if permitted and conditions are calm.
Rinse and fully dry water gear for storage or packing.
Deflate and stow the dinghy neatly if required.
Secure boards and fins in bags to avoid damage in transit.
No in-water activity if swell, traffic, or time constraints make it unsafe.
Drone Spots
Sunrise over the peninsula from a safe, quiet corner of the marina.
Low, unobtrusive shots along empty pontoons before crowds arrive.
Quick top‑down images of breakwater textures and the headland.
Respect privacy—avoid filming people and working staff.
Comply with all local rules and avoid airport-controlled airspace.
Must See
A quick morning walk toward the Baía d’Abra lookout if schedules permit.
Final photos from the marina breakwater with the peninsula backdrop.
A brief visit to Caniçal’s waterfront for a coffee by the sea.
Scan the headland for passing seabirds on your last morning.
Pick up a small souvenir in Machico if you have extra time.
Services
Showers, restrooms, and Wi‑Fi in the marina complex for freshening up.
Taxi pick-ups at the marina gate; pre-book for busy periods.
ATMs and small supermarkets within a short drive for last supplies.
Trash and recycling stations close to the fuel dock.
Pharmacy and convenience shops in Caniçal and Machico for travel items.
Hazards
Slips on wet pontoons during cleaning—wear non‑skid shoes.
Strong gusts can push boats on or off the dock; keep hands clear of pinch points.
Sun exposure during deck work—use sunscreen and hats.
Busy traffic on the access road—allow extra time for transfers.
Lines and hoses on deck can be tripping hazards during handover.
Tips
Settle all marina charges the evening prior to avoid morning queues.
Double-check you’ve downloaded any final weather data for travel days.
Pack heavy items low and secure to make ground transfers easier.
Photograph the boat’s condition after cleaning for your records.
Share feedback with the marina—local tips help the next crew.
Madeira and Porto Santo: 8-Day Sailing Itinerary from Quinta do Lorde
Launch your week from Marina Quinta do Lorde on Madeira’s dramatic eastern peninsula and trace the south coast via Funchal to Calheta before a night crossing to Porto Santo. Spend time ashore on its 9‑km sandy beach, tour tranquil bays, and then sail overnight to the protected Desertas Islands for a serene anchorage among stark cliffs and seabirds. Return to Baía d’Abra for a final swim and hike before checking out at Quinta do Lorde.
Expect two manageable overnight passages, reliable trade winds in season, and varied stops that pair marina comforts with wild anchorages. Highlights include the cliff walk at Ponta de São Lourenço, a quick taste of Funchal’s old town, Porto Santo’s clear shallows and soft sand, and the otherworldly calm of the Desertas. Plan permits for the nature reserve, monitor VHF 16 and local marina working channels, and aim for settled weather when anchoring off exposed coasts.
