Travel Alert: Airport Winds and Ferry Changes
Strong winds are affecting travel on and off the island today. Please be patient and flexible with your plans.
Cristiano Ronaldo Airport (FNC)
- Who is affected? Passengers arriving in or departing from Madeira today.
- What this means in practice: Some morning arrivals were diverted to Porto Santo or returned to the mainland. Flights may be delayed or, in extreme cases, cancelled.
- Our recommendation: Before heading to the airport, check the current status of your flight directly with your airline or on the ANA airports app.
Porto Santo Ferry
- Who is affected? Tourists who have planned a boat trip to the neighbouring island of Porto Santo.
- What this means in practice: The Lobo Marinho ferry is departing from Funchal later today – the morning crossing was rescheduled to the afternoon due to high waves. This will significantly shorten your day trip, and the journey may be uncomfortable for those prone to seasickness.
- Our recommendation: If possible, consider rebooking your tickets with Porto Santo Line for a day with calmer seas.
Ocean Safety: North Coast Warning
The Portuguese Institute for Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA) has issued a yellow warning for high waves, which could reach 4 to 5 meters on the north coast.
- Who is affected? Anyone planning a trip to the north of the island (e.g., to Porto Moniz, Seixal, São Vicente).
- What this means in practice: The natural lava pools in Porto Moniz and Seixal are closed for safety reasons (red flags are flying). It is extremely dangerous to be near the coastline or on unprotected cliffs.
- Our recommendation: Avoid all swimming and water activities on the north coast today. For a peaceful day by the water, choose the south coast around Funchal or Calheta.
Hiking and Trails: PR1 Restrictions and New Fees
The Institute of Forests and Nature Conservation (IFCN) has updated the status of hiking trails. If you are planning a hike today, please pay attention to the following information.
PR1 Vereda do Areeiro (Pico do Areeiro ↔ Pico Ruivo)
- Who is affected? Hikers planning to walk Madeira’s most famous ridge trail.
- What this means in practice: The trail is only partially open. From Pico do Areeiro, you can only go as far as the Ninho da Manta viewpoint and slightly further to Pedra Rija (approx. 1.2 km). The rest of the route through the tunnels and past Pico das Torres is closed for safety reasons. A full crossing between the peaks is not possible today.
- Our recommendation: Adjust your plans. You can walk the open section and return, or choose another fully open trail, such as PR1.1 Vereda da Ilha. Always check the current status of all trails on the official IFCN website.
IMPORTANT: Trail Entrance Fees
- Who is affected? All non-residents over the age of 12.
- What this means in practice: An entrance fee is now required for selected PR trails. You must purchase an online permit via the Simplifica portal before your hike. Rangers are conducting checks in the mountains, and heavy fines are imposed for entering without a valid ticket.
- Our recommendation: Before every hike, check if the trail requires a fee and purchase your permit online in advance.
Other Island News
ER101 Road Closure
The old coastal road, ER101, is closed today in the section between Ponta do Sol and Madalena do Mar. The closure is for maintenance and cleaning of the rock faces. To travel to the west of the island, use the main VE3 highway with the tunnels.
Funchal Prepares for the Flower Festival
And finally, some pleasant news. Preparations for the famous Flower Festival have already begun in the centre of Funchal, especially on the main avenue, Avenida Arriaga. You can get a behind-the-scenes look at this magnificent event, but please be considerate of the workers and respect any minor restrictions.