Ocean passage to Madeira Island in 2027

The passage from Faro to Madeira is one of the most challenging and educational ocean passages in the Eastern Atlantic. It is approximately 500 to 550 nautical miles, depending on the route taken, which gives a true bluewater passage. However, it remains within the range of most well-prepared cruising yachts. For novice skippers, the route is worthy of consideration as it constitutes a qualifying passage toward the IYT and RYA Yachtmaster Offshore certificate.

Before leaving Faro’s marina, sailing offshore poses many risks, so preparation and checks are very important. The rig must be checked, starting with the standing and running rigging, the chainplates, and the furling systems. Test steering systems and locate the emergency tiller. The engine needs service, and be sure to check that the fuel filters are replaced and that you are carrying enough spare parts. Have all operational safety equipment, including liferafts, flares, life jackets, jacklines, and AIS. Conduct a safety briefing so each crew member understands man-overboard and emergency procedures, watch rotation, reefing plans, and protocols. When stocking the galley, consider not just the expected time offshore, but also time lost to cooking and the rhythm of life. Generous water reserves and easy-to-prepare meals are a great help.

Passage planning for the route requires consideration of both coastal influences and weather systems over the open ocean. Leaving the Algarve coast usually requires steering southwest to avoid fishing, orca interactions and coastal traffic. Along the Portuguese coast, the Nortada — the steady thermal wind blowing from north to south — in summer can blow even stronger. Spurs of the Azores High, situated further out, initiate steady northeast trades, blowing strongly and steadily and making for fast, easy sailing. In winter, however, the Atlantic depressions are likely to bring frontal systems with stronger southwesterlies and larger seas. Those planning a route must pay close attention to GRIB files, synoptic charts, and pressure trends, and they must leave the port at the right time, particularly because a fast reach can quickly turn into a hard beat.

When the ship goes offshore, the crew operates on a watch system that alternates between sleep and alertness. During a (up to) five-day crossing, fatigue can be managed by rotation in increments of three hours on and three hours off, or four hours on and four hours off. For a Yachtmaster candidate taking the role of skipper or mate, this is where the leadership during these ‘instructions’ is very important. Psychological activities range from encouraging people to drink or eat to monitoring for seasickness and making timely sail changes. Under the exam, a lot is required.

And then the long days finally reward the ship with the rising of Madeira Island from the horizon and the opening of the sea. The rugged, volcanic cliffs of the island transform a long day spent only with the sea into stunning scenery.

Being on land, Madeira offers a distinct beauty compared to being on the water. The crew gets to enjoy the mild climate, beautiful grand mountains, and the warm atmosphere. The historic centre of Funchal, the artisanal levada walks that invite to travel along the hills, and a glass of Madeira wine are the rewards of a work cycle and the sailor's personal achievement.

The travel from Faro to Madeira is much more than simply changing Portuguese destinations. It becomes the first real test of preparation, navigation, weather assessment and command of a ship. Also, for the students of the Yachtmaster Offshore, it has practical value and personal significance, as it marks the first real crossing of the Atlantic.

Find out about our sailing expedition to Madeira here

https://www.algarve-cruising.com/en/product/p/sailing-expedition-madeira/