Traditional Canoe Crossing Porto Santo - Madeira

Traditional Canoe Crossing Porto Santo - Madeira

In June 19th 2026, Madeira and Porto Santo will host a unique event that revives one of the oldest maritime connections between the two islands.

The Cultural Association Maratona à Descoberta is organising the historic Porto Santo - Madeira crossing in a traditional canoe, a journey of around 78 km across the Atlantic Ocean, inspired by the ancient sea routes used for centuries by local communities.

The crossing will be carried out by canoeists Carlos Lima and Miguel Figueira, with the support of Filipe Nascimento and Cristiano Perestrelo, on a route expected to last approximately 10 hours.

More than a physical challenge, this initiative aims to honour the courage, resilience, and spirit of the people of the sea, celebrating a tradition that played an important role in the history and identity of Madeira.

This is also a cultural preservation project that seeks to bring younger generations closer to the maritime heritage of the Autonomous Region of Madeira, keeping alive the memory of the historic crossings between the islands.

Part of this initiative is also linked to raising awareness and supporting the fight against stroke, giving this project an even deeper human meaning.

By supporting this crossing, you are contributing to the promotion of Madeira's maritime culture, the preservation of local traditions, and the success of a unique event that will become part of the history of Madeira and Porto Santo.