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Economy · Funchal · 9 September 2026

Porto Santo Line Open to Bidding on Future Ferry Service Contract

Porto Santo Line has expressed its willingness to analyze and bid on a future international tender for the ferry service between Madeira and the mainland.

Porto Santo Line Open to Bidding on Future Ferry Service Contract

Carlos Perdigão Santos, executive administrator of Porto Santo Line, stated that the Sousa Group is ready to analyze and, if economically viable, bid on a future international tender for the ferry operation between Madeira and the continent.

Santos affirmed that the company will be "absolutely available" to analyze the program and package when the tender is launched, especially with financing from the Central or Regional Government. The company will only bid if the model is deemed economically feasible.

During the JPP Parliamentary Days, Santos also challenged the notion of a single maritime cargo transport operator for Madeira, highlighting the existence of various alternatives. He also cautioned against the use of the term "cartel," deeming it an accusation with legal implications and advocating for precise terminology. He further questioned data regarding cargo share from the previous Naviera Armas operation, suggesting the verification of historical data before establishing new routes.

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