Located just aft of the bridge — the nerve centre of the Santa Maria Manuela— the wheel allows the captain to issue clear directional instructions to the helm. From this position, the helmsman enjoys an unobstructed view over the deck and sails, while keeping watch as the crew trim for optimal speed.

Guests are invited to take the helm by day or by night, an unforgettable experience that offers a true sense of command aboard this four-masted schooner from the 1930s as she powers through the waves.

At sunset, the area around the wheel becomes a favourite gathering spot, where guests often come together with a glass of wine to enjoy the changing light and the atmosphere of life under sail.

The bridge is the nerve centre of the Santa Maria Manuela, and is located next to the wheel allowing the captain to give directional instructions to the helm (driver). From here the captain also gets a clear view of the whole deck and the sails.  The SMM is equipped with modern navigation and communication systems, but we are obliged to also carry paper charts on which the officers of the watch plot our course.  Guests are always welcome on the bridge, and there is nothing our offices like more than to give instruction in navigation, weather forecasting or how to use a sextant.

It was in these wooden boats that the fishermen spent twelve hours in the cold, often lost in fog that covered the chilly waters of Newfoundland and Greenland. The doris were numbered with lotts drawn by the fishermen at the beginning of each campaign. The most superstitious refused some numbers as bad luck. The sailors fished several miles away from the Ship, carrying only a piece of cod and bread to eat. Fishing was done by handline hundreds of meters long loaded with hooks and bait. The more cod they caught, the higher the profit for the fisherman.  Competition was rife, but it wasn't without risk.  It was not uncommon for overlaiden dorys to sink taking their catch and their master to a frozen and watery grave.   

The deck once housed 50 dories loaded one on top of the other, with space still for gutting and cleaning the day's catch before it was salted and racked for the long journey back to Portugal.

Today the Santa Maria Manuela's deck is known as one of the widest open decks amongst the tall ship world. The recent addition of some comfortable bench seating, some of which convert into buffet tables, and a bar allow the ship to be easily converted into a natural event venue for festivals, and an ideal host ship for environmental expeditions, film locations and business events. 

The bench seating around the aft skylight offers the helm some welcome company creating a convivial atmosphere. The bench on the poop deck, hidden from the wind by the steering house, offers shelter for those looking for some privacy.

The deck is 62 meters long and is easily adapted for all event solutions. Her capacity alongside the quay is 70 seated for dinner under awning and 200 on foot.

Food is an important part of the Santa Maria Manuela experience with our chef offering a delicious selection of Portuguese and international dishes.  

The galley is fitted with the state-of-the-art catering facilities capable of producing 195 hot meals each day. There are two pantries and a main galley located near the bow.

Historically, this room was where the ship’s officers dined and planned their cod fishing campaigns.  The captain sat at the head of the table according to the protocol.

On the wall we see historic pictures of the SMM, a board with the name of all captains and a photograph of Manuela D'Orey, the wife of Vasco Albuquerque d'Orey who named the ship after her as she gave him 16 children. There is also a historic chart of the fishing grounds of Terra Nova, preserving knowledge of the best spots which was jealously guarded from other competing ships. 

Every cabin aboard the Santa Maria Manuela is unique, with space, design and art giving each an individual style of its own in complement to the ship’s heritage and voyages.  All are carpeted, air conditioned and soundproofed for comfort.  

The ship has a capacity for 44 guests to sleep overnight, with every cabin having an ensuite shower and heads (toilet).  Most beds measure 190cm X 80cm.

Cabin facilities:

Ensuite shower and heads (toilet) / Cupboard / Reading light / USB / European two pin plugs / Privacy curtains / Carpet / Air conditioning / Soundproofed / Towels and bed linen / Daily cleaning

The Salon Terra Nova is the heart and social hub of the SMM. Its welcoming bar is the ideal place to reflect on the day’s adventures, exchange sailing stories, and enjoy a freshly prepared cocktail... just ask the barman.

The salon comfortably accommodates up to 38 guests for meals, with an additional five seats at the bar. Cushioned sofas provide inviting spaces to unwind, read, or simply enjoy the atmosphere on board.

Flexible, folding tables allow the dining area to be arranged for convivial group meals or more intimate à deux settings for those seeking privacy.

A dedicated self-service buffet area is equipped with modern catering facilities, ensuring both hot and cold dishes are served at the appropriate temperature.

Spanning 80 m², this versatile space can also host private dinners, company meetings, film screenings, or presentations. It is fitted with a large retractable LCD HD screen, making it perfectly suited for onboard events and film nights.

Two Zodiacs are carried on board, allowing easy and comfortable access to shore and enhancing the flexibility of each itinerary. Whether for landing in remote locations or short coastal explorations, these boats ensure smooth, safe transfers and open up a wider range of places to discover.

While the SMM is at anchor, guests are invited to enjoy a selection of inflatable kayaks and stand-up paddle boards (SUPs), perfect for exploring the surrounding waters at a relaxed pace. Two floating decks provide effortless access to the sea, turning each anchorage into a moment of discovery and freedom.