Mein Schiff Relax Maiden Call Funchal: LNG Cruiser Brings €337,700 to Madeira

The 333-meter-long newbuild accommodates nearly 4,000 passengers. The Port Authority of Madeira (APRAM) was pleased to grant an exceptionally long berthing time of 16 hours. The ship arrived in Funchal early in the morning and departed punctually at 10:02 PM (UTC) to continue its journey to Tenerife.

This extended stay was deliberate, following a conscious strategy by the port administration: Longer stops allow guests more extensive shore excursions and ensure that passengers and crew spend more time—and thus more money—in the local economy. Estimates suggest that the Mein Schiff Relax's visit injected approximately €337,700 into the regional coffers of local service providers, restaurateurs, and retailers.

The maiden call also signals a move toward more sustainable travel. The Mein Schiff Relax is powered by Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG). LNG is considered significantly cleaner than conventional heavy fuel oil (HFO) and reduces $\text{CO}_2$ emissions by up to 25 percent. Sulfur oxides and soot particles are also virtually eliminated.

With this decision, TUI Cruises demonstrates its commitment to future-proof technologies, further strengthening Madeira's appeal as a port that prioritizes sustainability. The ship is now scheduled to call at Funchal weekly on the "Cruise Atlantic Islands" route until April 2026, underlining the island's long-term importance as a central hub in the Atlantic.

The Mein Schiff Relax is the largest and newest member of the fleet. Built at the Fincantieri shipyard in Italy and christened in April 2025, the ship sets new standards for the guest experience. Despite the higher passenger capacity, the familiar Premium Feel-Good Concept is intended to be maintained. This is supported by 14 restaurants and bistros, as well as 17 bars, cafés, and clubs.

The new cabin concepts are particularly noteworthy: For the first time, TUI Cruises offers special single cabins with balconies—a response to the growing demand from solo travelers. In the luxury segment, innovative suites, such as the two-story Loft Suite, are being introduced. Furthermore, the exclusive suite areas and their lounges have been moved to the Aft Deck (stern) to create spectacular and quiet retreats. With these innovations, the cruise line aims to maintain its premium positioning while welcoming more guests aboard.

The successful maiden call in Madeira confirms the effective integration of this technologically advanced ship into the Atlantic itinerary and strengthens Madeira's position as one of Europe's top cruise destinations.