Anchorages in Madeira & Porto Santo
Madeira's 1862m peaks create violent wind funnelling and swell refraction. Porto Santo (30nm NE) is the finest anchorage in the archipelago — 9km beach, sandy bottom. The Desertas Islands are a strict nature reserve requiring a permit. Register at the Madeira government portal before arrival.
Desertas Islands — Entry Permit Required
The Desertas Islands (Ilhas Desertas) are a strict nature reserve protecting one of Europe's largest monk seal colonies. Entry requires prior permit from the Madeira Natural Park Authority (parquesnaturais.madeira.gov.pt). Unauthorised vessels are turned away by the reserve warden who lives on the island. Magnetic anomaly near the Desertas can affect compass readings — use GPS.
Verified Anchorages — Madeira & Porto Santo
6 anchorages
Funchal (Madeira)
Marina do Funchal · Funchal Marina · Porto do Funchal
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Porto Santo
Porto do Porto Santo · Vila Baleira anchorage · Porto Santo Marina
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Calheta
Marina da Calheta · Calheta Marina · Porto da Calheta
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São Jorge Bay
Baía de São Jorge · São Jorge Madeira · Porto de São Jorge
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Machico
Baía de Machico · Porto de Machico · Machico Bay
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Ilhas Desertas (Restricted Reserve)
Deserta Grande · Bugio · Ilhéu Chão · Desertas Marine Reserve
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Set Your Anchor Alarm Before You Sleep
When Madeira's mountain winds kick up overnight, Safety Anchor Alarm monitors your position continuously. Porto Santo's 9km beach is stunning — but the E swell can make it uncomfortable.
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