From Funchal: Guided Tour to Desertas Islands

From Funchal: Guided Tour to Desertas Islands offers a tempting glimpse into Madeira’s wild side. For $141 per person, this day trip promises a boat cruise along the rugged coastline, chances to spot dolphins and seabirds, and a guided visit to the protected Desertas Islands. The tour includes hotel pickup in Funchal, a hot meal on board, and opportunities to swim and snorkel in Doca Bay.

What we like about this experience is the chance to see Madeira’s coast from the water, with its dramatic cliffs and untouched landscapes making for some fantastic photos. We also appreciate the wildlife watching aspect, as many travelers enjoy spotting dolphins or whales in their natural habitat. Plus, the inclusion of a guided tour with commentary helps visitors understand the importance of these protected islands.

On the downside, some reviews highlight issues with organization and communication — particularly, unreliable pickup times and last-minute cancellations. This can be frustrating, especially if you’re counting on a seamless experience. If you’re someone who values well-organized tours with clear information, you might find this aspect disappointing.

This tour would suit travelers who are flexible, enjoy wildlife and nature, and are prepared for potential schedule hiccups. If your priority is a smooth, guaranteed experience, you might want to consider other options. But if you’re open to adventure and spontaneous moments, the Desertas Islands can still be a memorable part of your Madeira trip.

Key Points

Wild landscape and wildlife: The islands are a natural reserve, home to rare monk seals and seabirds.
Wildlife watching: Expect to see dolphins, whales, and seabirds in their natural environment.
Scenic coastal views: The cruise offers incredible photo opportunities of Madeira’s rugged coast.
Swimming and snorkeling: Crystal-clear waters at Doca Bay provide a refreshing break.
Potential organizational issues: Reviews mention late pickups and cancellations despite good weather.
Value for nature lovers: The tour emphasizes untouched landscapes and ecological importance.

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Exploring the Desertas Islands: An Honest Look

When we first hear about a trip to the Desertas Islands, we’re excited by the idea of seeing an unspoiled part of Madeira’s natural world. These islands are about 15 miles southeast of Funchal and are part of a protected Natural Reserve, making them a significant site for conservation. The fact that they’re uninhabited and home to the rarest monk seals is a highlight, especially for those interested in wildlife.

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Itinerary and what to expect

The tour starts with a pickup from your hotel in Funchal, Caniço, or Estreito — a convenience that saves you the hassle of arranging transport. Once on the boat, your journey along the coastline is likely to be one of the most visually striking parts. The rugged cliffs and untouched landscapes are often described as stunning, making for memorable photos. The boat cruise itself is a chance to breathe in the fresh sea air and enjoy views that few land-based excursions can offer.

The main highlight is anchoring in Doca Bay, where you can swim, snorkel, or simply relax. The waters here are described as crystal-clear, inviting a refreshing dip. You’re also offered a hot meal on board, typically comprising chicken, with the opportunity to sit back and enjoy the scenery while eating.

Afterward, there’s a guided tour of the islands themselves. While the specifics of this tour are not detailed, it is likely to include a walk or visit to some of the island areas. Keep in mind that the islands are uninhabited and protected, so the visit will be limited in scope but rich in natural beauty.

Wildlife and natural scenery

One of the most appealing aspects of this tour is the chance to see wildlife in its natural habitat. Many reviews mention the possibility of spotting dolphins and whales. The waters around Madeira are known for marine life, and your guide may point out seabirds soaring overhead or playful dolphins swimming alongside the boat. This makes for some excellent photo opportunities and adds an element of excitement.

The meal and onboard experience

The hot meal included is a nice touch, and most travelers find it satisfying after a morning of sea and sun. However, some reviews note that staff can be less than friendly, with rude or unhelpful attitudes reported by a few travelers. The food itself, such as chicken served on the ship, seems standard but adequate for a day at sea.

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Practical considerations

What to bring is straightforward: hat, swimwear, towel, camera, sunscreen, and water will make your day more comfortable. The tour discourages smoking and feeding animals, which is important for conservation efforts.

The tour is available in English and German, and there’s flexibility to reserve now and pay later, which is convenient for planning.

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Authenticity and Authentic Experiences

While the itinerary sounds promising, the reality as reported by travelers paints a mixed picture. The stunning coastline views are universally praised, making this a worthwhile activity for nature lovers. However, the organizational issues are a significant concern. According to a review by Wolfgang, there was a notable problem with the pick-up — arriving late, then canceling the trip unnecessarily, despite excellent weather conditions. Such miscommunications can sour what should be an enjoyable day.

Similarly, another traveler was disappointed to find out only at the port that the trip was canceled due to weather, though the weather was reported as perfect. This indicates potential gaps in information dissemination and planning.

The third review highlights an even more serious issue: no pickup at the hotel, leading to a full refund and the end of their Madeira holiday. Such experiences suggest that, while the trip has potential, it may not be the most reliable or stress-free option.

Is it worth the price?

At $141 per person, this tour is not cheap. When considering value, you should weigh the scenic coastal cruise and wildlife sightings against the logistical frustrations reported. If the trip runs smoothly, the combination of boat time, island exploration, and wildlife viewing offers good value for nature enthusiasts. But, the reviews suggest that unpredictability is a real concern, and travelers who depend on timely arrangements may feel let down.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is best suited for travelers who are flexible and patient, with a zest for seeing Madeira’s natural environment. If you’re enthusiastic about wildlife and stunning coastal scenery, the highlights could outweigh the inconveniences. However, if you’re on a tight schedule or prefer highly organized excursions, this might be less suitable. The potential for cancellations or delays means it’s ideal to have backup plans or to verify arrangements closer to the day.

Final Thoughts

The From Funchal: Guided Tour to Desertas Islands brings you close to Madeira’s wild side, with spectacular views and wildlife encounters that many will cherish. Yet, the tour’s success heavily depends on organization and weather — aspects that have disappointed some travelers. The opportunity to swim in pristine waters and observe protected wildlife makes it a memorable experience for those with a flexible outlook.

If you love spontaneous adventures, appreciate unspoiled natural landscapes, and are okay with the possibility of last-minute changes, this tour still holds appeal. For travelers seeking a reliable, seamless experience, it’s worth considering other options or preparing for some unpredictability.

FAQ

What is the main focus of this tour?
This tour emphasizes a boat cruise along Madeira’s coastline, with a guided visit to the Desertas Islands and wildlife viewing opportunities.

How much does the tour cost?
It is priced at $141 per person, which includes hotel pickup, a guide, lunch, and swimming/snorkeling opportunities.

What should I bring on the trip?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, sunscreen, and water to stay comfortable and prepared throughout the day.

Are there any restrictions or rules?
Yes, smoking and feeding animals are not allowed, to protect the environment and wildlife.

What are the main complaints from previous travelers?
Major issues include late pickups, cancellations due to weather (despite good conditions), and poor communication, leading to frustration.

Is this trip suitable for families or older travelers?
While it could be enjoyable for families, older travelers should be aware of potential organizational issues and the physical activity involved in the island visit.

Can I book the tour and pay later?
Yes, the tour offers a reserve-and-pay-later option, allowing flexible planning.

To sum it up, this boat trip to the Desertas Islands offers a chance to see Madeira from a different perspective, with promising opportunities for wildlife and scenic photography. However, travelers should be aware of past organizational issues and consider their own flexibility before booking. If you’re looking for authentic encounters with Madeira’s wild landscapes and are comfortable with some unpredictability, this tour could be a worthwhile adventure.