FerryConnect

Portugal (Azores)

Horta (Faial) → Madalena (Pico)

The Blue Line across the channel between Faial and Pico: half an hour from Horta, the yachting harbour, to Madalena at the foot of Mount Pico, Portugal’s highest peak. It is the everyday link between the two islands and the easiest way to climb Pico or tour its vineyards from Horta.

Horta (Faial) to Madalena (Pico) ferry at a glance

The ferry from Horta (Faial) to Madalena (Pico) takes 25m – 30m across the Faial–Pico Channel (Atlantic Ocean), operated by Atlânticoline. Both vehicles and foot passengers are carried. Typical frequency: about 5–7 sailings a day each way all year (Blue Line), plus Green Line boats calling at Madalena.

Crossing times and frequencies are typical figures and vary by season. Confirm the current timetable with the operator or booking partner before you travel. Route facts last reviewed 2026-09-29.

Sources: atlanticoline.pt · atlanticoline.pt · atlanticoline.pt · atlanticoline.pt · How we verify

Return crossing: Madalena (Pico) to Horta (Faial)

Atlânticoline also sails Madalena (Pico) to Horta (Faial), taking 25m – 30m.

Horta (Faial) to Madalena (Pico) ferry timetable & sailing pattern

Blue Line from Horta usually at 07:30, 10:45, 14:30 (or 14:15), 17:15, with extra sailings (08:30, 19:00, 22:00) on busy summer days; from Madalena 08:15, 11:30, 15:00–15:15, 18:00

Timetable published into December 2026; the Green Line to São Jorge also carries Horta–Madalena passengers.

Published departure times

  • Horta 07:30
  • Horta 10:45
  • Horta 14:30
  • Horta 17:15
  • Madalena 08:15
  • Madalena 11:30
  • Madalena 18:00

Timetables change by season and date. Check exact departures for your travel date on the official timetable.

Official Atlânticoline timetable →Check prices & book on Direct Ferries →

Source: Atlânticoline timetable tool (Sep–Nov 2026 sample dates). Verified 2026-09-29.

Maritime Crossing Route Map

Interactive sea passage between Horta (Faial) and Madalena (Pico)

📐 5 Nautical Miles
Horta (Faial)⇄Madalena (Pico)
⏱ 25m – 30m · 📐 5 nm
⚡ All operators, one booking

Ready to cross from Horta (Faial) to Madalena (Pico)?

Book your crossing with Direct Ferries: live fares, availability and sailing times.

Operators on This Route

OperatorCrossing TimeVessels
Atlânticoline25m – 30mGilberto Mariano, Mestre Jaime Feijó, Cruzeiro das Ilhas, Cruzeiro do Canal

Route Features

🚗

Vehicles

Cars, campervans, and motorbikes accepted

🚶

Foot Passengers

Walk-on passengers welcome

🐕

Pets

Pets allowed with valid documents

📐

Distance

5 nautical miles

Getting There & Onward Transport

  • Horta Maritime Terminal is on Avenida 25 de Abril (9900-115 Horta)
  • Madalena’s João Quaresma Maritime Terminal is on Rua Dona Maria da Glória Duarte (9950-340 Madalena do Pico)
  • Atlânticoline has ticket offices at both terminals

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take a car from Faial to Pico?
Yes, on the ferries Gilberto Mariano (12 vehicles) and Mestre Jaime Feijó (15 vehicles). The smaller Cruzeiro das Ilhas and Cruzeiro do Canal are passenger-only.
How long is the ferry from Horta (Faial) to Madalena (Pico)?
The crossing typically takes 25m – 30m. Actual times vary by vessel, season and sea conditions, so check the timetable for your sailing.
How often does the Horta (Faial) to Madalena (Pico) ferry sail?
Blue Line from Horta usually at 07:30, 10:45, 14:30 (or 14:15), 17:15, with extra sailings (08:30, 19:00, 22:00) on busy summer days; from Madalena 08:15, 11:30, 15:00–15:15, 18:00. Timetable published into December 2026; the Green Line to São Jorge also carries Horta–Madalena passengers. This is the pattern published in the Atlânticoline timetable tool (Sep–Nov 2026 sample dates) (checked 2026-09-29); confirm exact departure times on the official timetable before you travel.
Which ferry companies sail from Horta (Faial) to Madalena (Pico)?
Atlânticoline operates this route. Compare sailing times and ticket types before booking, as they often differ between operators.
Can I take the Horta (Faial) to Madalena (Pico) ferry as a foot passenger?
Yes. Foot passengers can travel on this route. Allow time to reach the passenger terminal and check the operator’s check-in closing time.
Are dogs and pets allowed on the Horta (Faial) to Madalena (Pico) ferry?
Pets are accepted on this route, subject to the operator’s rules (for example staying in the vehicle, kennels or pet-friendly cabins). International crossings also require the correct pet travel documents.
How far is Horta (Faial) from Madalena (Pico) by ferry?
The sea crossing is about 5 nautical miles (roughly 9 km).