Funchal - A very special port of call for ORIANA

Since her inagural in 1995, ORIANA has visited Funchal for more than 110 times. Photo © Nuno Jesus.
12th of April 1995, was a long awaited day for the people of Madeira island, the newest P&O's addition, ORIANA arrived at late afternoon from Southampton on her inaugural at Funchal harbour, during her maiden voyage.ORIANA arrives at Funchal for another fantastic New Year. © Paulo Rodrigues.

In a old route to Madeira, P&O ships have been visiting the "Garden Island" for years. From the seven ships of the company current fleet, ORIANA is every inch the most regular ship. Normally arriving from her home port, Southampton, her majority of visits occur during "Canary Islands" cruises. However, in recent years the company has been increasing it's Southampton based Caribbean cruises, visiting Madeira in the westbound transatlantic or eastbound. Also ORIANA has increased her Azores visits in this genre of cruising.

ORIANA, a ship built for the british market, is a very authentic creation, with her onboard casual style, she is very appreciated by portuguese as well, who choose to cruise on her to spend their vacations.ORIANA on yet another visit at the "Garden Island". © Sérgio Ferreira.

By the end of this year, ORIANA will no longer be a cruise ship directed to family holidays, due to her adult conversion that will take place in late October this year. This has to do with ARTEMIS withdrawn next May.

In 2011 ORIANA has 5 more visits scheduled in Funchal, we do hope she keeps her frequency of calls, in a city where she's always very welcome!

Text by Paulo Rodrigues, whom we appreciate the contribution. Visit his blog about Funchal's cruise activity here.

Madeira is truly a very special destination for ORIANA.