Our Story
The Birth of Funchal in 1961
In a geographically and culturally marvelous country, which at some point in history became an empire with great navigators challenging the mysteries of an undiscovered world, though not without changes and events that made its history unique, the story of Funchal was born.
A Danish Beginning with Portuguese Roots
In 1961, the construction of the ship was concluding on Danish soil, with Elsinore Shipyards overseeing the project. While the physical construction took place in Denmark, Portuguese influence was prominent, not only in its conception but also in the construction supervision led by engineer Rogério D’Oliveira. During that time, this vessel held the distinction of being Denmark’s largest ship since World War II.
The Evolution of Funchal
Initially built to transport supplies and passengers between Lisbon and the Azores and Madeira islands for the “Empresa Insulana de Navegação,” Funchal served these routes until 1966. However, in 1966, its service was expanded to include Tenerife and the Canary Islands. Later, in 1968, it played a unique role as a presidential yacht during Américo Tomás’ visit to various locations. Funchal even transported the ashes of Pedro I to Brazil in 1972. In 1973, with a change in ownership to the “Compania Portuguesa de Transportes Maritimos,” the ship’s appearance underwent further transformation. Prior to this change, its owner, the “Empresa Insulana,” had taken it to Rio de Janeiro in the same year, where it also operated as a cruise ship on the South American coast. However, as the “Empresa Insulana” encountered financial difficulties and later merged with the “Compania Colonial,” this resulted in the formation of the new company called “Compania Portuguesa de Transportes Maritimos.” With this merger, changes were made to the ship’s appearance, including alterations to its funnel, in order to align with the image of the new owning company.
New Ownership and Fresh Beginnings
In 1985, Funchal passed into the hands of “Great Warwick Inc,” owned by a Greek and a Swedish family consortium. The ship was re-registered in Panama, although its primarily Portuguese crew remained. External changes were made to its appearance, leading to years of popularity and success, with European summers and South American winter cruises. Further modifications occurred in 1993, including an aft deck expansion. The Greek Potamianos family took over in the late 1990s, and in 1997, significant renovations were carried out to comply with regulations, preserving its classic style. It was then registered in Madeira, Portugal.
Global Voyages and Revival
In 2003, “Classic International Cruises” expanded to Australia, and in 2004, Funchal operated routes between Europe and Australia.
Ownership gradually changed hands upon the death of the Potamianos family head in 2012. However, Funchal’s legacy was preserved as it returned to Portuguese ownership under Rui Alegre.
Meticulous restoration and internal refurbishment underwent in 2013, reestablishing its role as a cruise ship equipped with modern amenities in both passenger and crew cabins. The inner spaces were rejuvenated to recapture their classic essence, while the exterior was carefully restored to resemble its original appearance.
Once again, “The Pride of Portugal” was updated to shine and comply with current regulations and standards. Despite the significant investment made in the refurbishment, the company went bankrupt soon after. However, this beautiful ship, with its classic design, sleek and elegant lines, is always ready to sail the seas with all its splendor and pride representing its origins in a country of sailors.
A Rescued Heritage
In 2020, an international consortium led by Teamson LDA. rescued the ship from disuse and prevented it from being scrapped. MV Funchal embodies Portuguese maritime history, and its preservation serves as a testament to the nation’s seafaring heritage.
