Documents from 1874 consulted by Funchal Notícias indicate the existence of contracts for steam navigation services between Lisbon and the island of Madeira, as well as for the Azores, involving the firm Bensaude & Cia. These subsidies were granted directly to the shipping companies, differing from current passenger subsidies.
As early as 1871, the Azores received an annual subsidy for the steam service between Lisbon and the archipelago. For Madeira, the amount was paid per voyage. Verification and entitlement to the subsidy were handled by the Lisbon Port Authority, requiring presentation of travel documents. Companies benefited from tax exemptions for importing equipment, and the ships were considered packet boats. The contract was for nine years and included fines for delays or failures, with exemptions only for force majeure.
