We arrived at Marina Quinta do Lorde on August 14, 2024. This marina is located in one of the windiest areas of the island, where wind gusts can suddenly reach up to 30 knots right at the entrance, alongside strong tidal currents that must be considered when entering. The marina entrance is quite narrow.
The staff at the marina are friendly, and the check-in process is smooth. As we were coming from Spain, we were not required to clear with the authorities, as the marina notified them on our behalf. However, it is essential to contact the Portuguese Maritime Authority via VHF Channel 16 upon entering Madeira waters to inform them of which marina you will be docking at.
This marina is part of a resort complex (currently under renovation) and features a small coffee shop, a dive center, and a whale-watching tour operator. It is relatively isolated, with the nearest market located about 5 km away, so renting a car is advisable for greater mobility. There is a bus stop in front of the complex, and taxis are readily available.
If you wish to sail within Madeira’s waters—such as to Porto Santo, Desertas Islands, and Selvagens Islands—you must register and complete the request forms at https://simplifica.madeira.gov.pt. You can also request scuba diving permits through the same portal. For additional information, you can email info.srtc@madeira.gov.pt.
We cleared out of Madeira via Marina Quinta do Lorde, which kindly filled out the official form for us. Our last port of call before exiting Portuguese waters was the Selvagens Islands, where there is a military base. You must call in on Channel 16 when approaching. In this area, there is only one allowed anchorage area, which is at Ensenada das Cagarras in the southern part of the island. It is necessary to pre-book the single anchorage buoy. If the buoy is occupied, you can drop anchor in the bay, but be aware that the bottom is flat and rocky with limited grip.