An exciting project is underway to revamp and improve Marina Quinta do Lorde in Madeira.
Whilst visitors to Marina Quinta do Lorde often comprise boaters making a technical stop following an Atlantic circuit, many are attracted by the unique beauty of the marina’s location.
Manager Max Mallol described a shift in visitor profiles:
This new stage of the management, we have seen a growth in demand for catamarans and an increase in clients interested in sport fishing. We have also identified a growing market for larger vessels, for which there is currently a limited supply of moorings on Madeira Island.
In terms of our services, we aim to provide our users with an authentic and complete experience. On the one hand, we strive to provide everything they need to enjoy a comfortable and safe stay, including new electrical and water connection points, renovated and safe facilities, as well as facilities for carrying out repairs, among other services. On the other hand, we provide our visitors with all the information and facilities necessary to connect with the local culture in a comprehensive manner, facilitating the search for places of interest, car rental and access to interesting services within the marina, among other amenities.
Maderia has long been a very popular stop-off for TransEurope Marinas members heading down the Iberian coast and perhaps down to the Canaries or ahead of preparing for an Atlantic crossing. Beyond the island’s rich cultural heritage and vibrant festivals, the surrounding cruising grounds include attractive anchorages such as Baía d’Abra, located at Punta de São Lourenço, right next to Marina Quinta do Lorde, or Machico, which is perfectly sheltered with a sandy bed and access to both the beach or the picturesque village of Machico.
Having carried out a thorough preliminary study of maritime climate and wave conditions, plans are in place to ensure more comfortable and secure berthing services, with ample spaces for multihulls. New services are set to include significant improvements in the security of the marina with 24-hour surveillance, as well as reinforced access controls to both the site and the pontoons. This endeavour will run parallel to the refurbishment of the resort hotel, which itself is subject to a comprehensive investment strategy.
Manager Max Mallol described further intentions for the marina:
On land, premises will be adapted to accommodate high quality local businesses, as well as the creation of a specific area for repairs. In addition, we will facilitate access to the best workshops on the island to provide comprehensive solutions to our visitors. The marina is currently in the process of renewing the Blue Flag and we are also planning to apply for Gold Anchor accreditation.
From a practical perspective, we have implemented protocols to train our staff on sustainability issues. These protocols encourage the acquisition of daily maintenance habits ranging from waste control in the water to selective collection on vessels. In addition, we have plans to inform and raise awareness among all our users about the responsibility of adopting sustainable practices in our facilities, recognising the immense natural value of the environment that surrounds us.
To book a berth, write to marina@quintadolorde.pt and to find out more about the marina, visit the website: quintadolorde.pt