www.CRUISESHIPODYSSEY.com
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All text and photographs (unless stated otherwise) © Paul Timmerman; photographs on this page made during ship visit in 1984. Funchal
is a small ship by today’s standards, measuring just 9563 gross tons.
439 Passengers are looked after by a
crew of
155 The
history of the M/V Funchal is a remarkable one. Admiral Thomaz, President of
Portugal sailed in her. Besides this, Funchal also served as a Presidential
yacht for State Visits to the Atlantic Islands, the Portuguese African colonies and Brazil. On a special crossing from Lisbon
to Rio de Janeiro, the Funchal brought the remains of the first Emperor of
Brazil back to
his
native country.
Promenade, Navigators deck
Funchal
has a classic, well balanced profile clearly showing that she has come of age
now. Despite this,her
almost yacht-like appearance is very charming, like the atmosphere found
onboard. Her
interiors are cosy, with lots of wood panelling, not found on today’s cruise
ships any more for safety reasons. Especially the spiral staircase on the Azores deck, located in front of the reception desk is a real gem.
Recently, this staircase has been
closed of for safety reasons, but this has been done in a very stylish manner,
with alternating mirrors and wood panelling.
On
Promenade
deck
all public rooms are located (apart
from the restaurants Lisboa and Coimbra on Azores deck). The
Porto Bar is worth mentioning, as it has a
cosy, friendly atmosphere. Funchal’s
interiors have been refitted many times, but luckily
she has
retained her classic
interiors.
Click on thumbnail for larger Image Ilha Verde Lounge, Promenade deck Lisboa Restaurant, Azores deck Deck,aft Continued on page 2......
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