Transport: Porto Santo Ferry Temporarily Out of Service
The most important news of the day for travelers heading to the golden beaches. The regular ferry service between Funchal and the island of Porto Santo, operated by the Lobo Marinho ferry, is temporarily suspended due to scheduled maintenance.
- Who is affected? All tourists who were planning a day trip or multi-day trip by boat to Porto Santo.
- What does this mean in practice? Ferry tickets cannot be purchased at this time, and the transport of goods and passengers by sea is suspended.
- What do we recommend? The only alternative is to fly with Binter airlines. However, aircraft capacity is limited, so book your tickets as far in advance as possible.
Hiking and Safety: Trail Status and North Coast Warning
Mountain hiking in Madeira requires preparation, a fact reinforced by today’s events and official information. On the north coast, specifically on the Vereda da Palha Carga trail near Seixal, a tourist was seriously injured after a 10-meter fall. The rescue operation was highly complicated due to the dense vegetation.
Hiking Trail (PR) Status and Fees
The Institute of Forests and Nature Conservation (IFCN) has updated information on recommended trails:
- Entrance Fee: A tourist fee of €3 must be paid online via the Simplifica Madeira portal for access to the marked PR (Percursos Pedestres Recomendados) trails.
- PR1 Vereda do Areeiro (Pico do Areeiro – Pico Ruivo): The trail is only partially open. The western path (via the tunnels) is passable. However, the eastern, more challenging path via Pico das Torres remains closed.
Practical Advice for Mountain Hikers:
- For hikers: Always check the current trail status on the official IFCN website before you set out. Do not enter closed sections.
- For everyone: Be extremely cautious, especially on the north coast and on steep trails. Paths can be wet and slippery. Wear sturdy footwear and do not overestimate your abilities.
What’s Coming Up: Rali Madeira Legend Will Cause Traffic Disruptions
Fans of historic racing cars are in for a treat. On October 23 and 24, 2026, Madeira will host the popular Rali Madeira Legend event, with 60 crews participating.
- Who is affected? All drivers and tourists planning car trips to the island’s interior and mountains.
- What does this mean in practice? During the rally, expect extensive, temporary closures of many mountain roads and scenic routes.
- What do we recommend? If you plan to travel by car on these dates, check the organizers’ official information in advance for details on closed sections and plan alternative routes.
In Brief from Funchal
Two minor incidents occurred in the capital today. In the Boa Nova district, firefighters responded to a fire in an abandoned house; the event did not affect any tourist areas. The second incident involved an elderly tourist who fell near the lower station of the Monte cable car. Please be cautious on the city center’s cobblestone pavements, which can be uneven.