Boat Project on Madeira Island - VADIA Boats Madeira

VADIA Boat Project on Madeira Island. The Voyage Continues…

8 May. Escola Azul. VADIA Boat will be in attendance at this years cultural event. More exciting news to be announced.

TBA August. Come join us at Sao Lazero Harbour, Funchal for the 20th annual Santa Maria Maior traditional boat regatta, Mad eira.

TBA September. Come join us at Sao Tiago beach, Old Town, Funchal for the 7th annual traditional boat regatta, Madeira.

1-6 October. VADIA is proud to announce its association with the ICF Canoe Ocean Racing World Championships coming to Madeira in 2024.

Latest Boat Project, Events, & News

We’re excited to share our latest events and news that focus’s on the intersection of boating and the arts. Get a behind-the-scenes look at our VADIA Boat restoration, project and the talented artisans who are working tirelessly to bring this historic boat back to life.

40th Year Anniversary of VADIA Boat

A celebration of craftsmanship, fishing and community in the Old Town of Funchal, Madeira (1983-2023).

Get ready to embark on a photographic and video journey into the heart of Madeira’s rich ocean wildlife and maritime heritage with not one, but two incredible projects that promise to showcase the beauty and tradition of these remarkable vessels.

The first was a boat reconstruction event, where local skilled craftsmen demonstrated the ancient techniques of building a Madeiran traditional boat. The boat reconstruction and cultural event gave visitors a firsthand look at the intricate process of building a traditional Madeiran boat, from selecting the perfect wood to shaping the planks and carving the bow and stern.

The second was a film documentary that offers an immersive and in-depth exploration of these iconic vessels and the culture that surrounds them. The documentary offers an in-depth exploration of the history and culture of Madeira’s traditional boats, through a combination of interviews, stunning cinematography, and a deep appreciation for the local fishing community.

Together, these two projects deliver a unique and unforgettable experience that celebrates the rich history and heritage of this beautiful island.

With the collaboration of talented designers, musicians, and artists from the community, VADIA event and documentary showcased the multifaceted beauty of these traditional boats and their significance to Madeira’s seafaring past and present, and cultural significance of local fishing communities. Get ready to set off on a journey of discovery and wonder! Concluded: 1-30 June ’23.

Team VADIA Boat Project on Madeira Island

Our collaborative team is passionate about Madeira and committed to delivering local arts project outcomes. Our team, consists of skilled volunteer crew members, dedicated to promoting cultural awareness and marine conservation in all that we do.

• Marcos Alves Da Mota.
• John Kavanagh – The Irishman of Maderia.

Old Town of Funchal – The Community and its Sea Arts Project

The place which we now refer to as “Old Town of Funchal” goes back to the early settlement period of the island of Madeira. Read More >>

Arts Project Framework

There is a group of people to whom the culture of this region is still in time to give due recognition because they have helped to mould this identity, Read More >>

Purpose of the Project

In order to fulfil this purpose, that of helping to maintain all these customs and traditions, it is necessary to listen to these people and if we can preserve some heritage that represents them Read More >>

A Descriptive Memory of the Project

We will gather already existing photographs and video in order to use them in the documentary to be produced, which will reveal the fishing arts as well as other relevant traditional activities Read More >>

“VADIA” The Boat & Reconstruction

VADIA is more than just a boat, it’s a symbol of Madeiran boating culture and history. Discover how we’re breathing new life into this pleasure craft, and it’s upcoming reconstruction it at Largo do Corpo Santo No. 18 during the month of June 2023. Read More >>

Patrons of VADIA Boat Project

We want to extend a heartfelt thank you to our arts project patrons and sponsors for their continued support. We truly appreciate your commitment in helping to preserve Madeiran maritime heritage.

Funchal Municipality | Madeira Culture Department | Municipal Theatre Baltazar Dias | Access Maderia

VADIA Boat Club

Become a member of our VADIA Boat Club and help us preserve a historic Madeiran boat for future generations to enjoy!
As a member, you’ll receive exclusive offers, while helping to support our mission to protect and restore this important piece of maritime history.

VADIA Crew Ocean Wear Shop

Our official ocean wear shop will open for business in the coming weeks. By supporting us, you can take pride in knowing that 100% of your sale proceeds will be used exclusively for future VADIA Boat operations. Shop our collection today and take your love for boating to the next level. Read More>>