Portuscale Cruises has released a further statement as their newly-refurbished Funchal cruise ship sits detained by Swedish authorities in Gothenburg:

Dear stakeholders and friends,

It is not correct to say that M/V  Funchal has non-certified lifesaving equipment and that her crew has not enough knowledge to handle any security situation. 

Our crew is all certified by the relevant authorities. Moreover, no crew can embark without meeting the conditions of this certification. 

It is true to say that there was an inspection, that we knew beforehand that it was going to be, and this we already knew in Lisbon, before departure. Moreover, inspections of various kinds are a common practice during a ship’s operation.

This inspection occurred within normality, having the authorities (Inspectorate for the Port Control Authority of Gothenburg) been informed about the 2 breakdowns that were detected.

Well before the arrival at Gothenburg, the electric connection between the Bridge and 2 of the 15 watertight doors and 1 fire station were faulty.

Some other recommendations were made and measures were immediately taken for its resolution.

The inspection was suspended until all recommendations be implemented. All means are available on board to enable that all problems are resolved in the next couple of days. 

Port authorities will then conduct a new inspection and we are sure that our ship will pass with flying colours and will resume her normal operation.

M/V Funchal is an excellent vessel that has just been totally refurbish with the highest quality materials and the best technical means.

It has been said many times: M/V Funchal is now as she has never been before!

Thank You.

Rui Alegre
Chairman & CEO