Desertas Islands Full-Day Catamaran Trip from Funchal

Imagine sailing along the south coast of Madeira on a smooth catamaran, with the wind in your hair and breathtaking views unfolding around you. For about nine hours, you’ll explore the Desertas Islands—a protected natural reserve known for its volcanic landscapes and rare marine life. Priced at $102 per person, this tour combines scenic cruising, wildlife spotting, and a visit to Deserta Grande, where you can learn about monk seal conservation efforts.

What we love most about this trip is the chance to see endemic flora and fauna up close, along with the thrill of swimming and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters. Plus, the friendly crew and knowledgeable guides make the experience both educational and enjoyable.

A consideration for some travelers might be the length of the day—a full nine hours is a long time at sea, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with boat travel and outdoor activities. This tour suits anyone eager to combine natural beauty, wildlife, and a bit of adventure—whether you’re a nature lover, a curious traveler, or someone looking for a relaxing day on the water.

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Key Points

Scenic sailing along Madeira’s coast with stunning volcanic views.
Wildlife encounters, including dolphins and, potentially, monk seals.
Educational guided walk on Deserta Grande about conservation efforts.
Swim and snorkel opportunities in pristine waters.
Delicious included lunch with options for vegan and other dietary needs.
No hotel transfer included, so plan transportation to the marina.

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Exploring the Full-Day Catamaran Experience

This tour offers a thorough taste of Madeira’s natural beauty and marine life. Starting at the Funchal Marina, you’ll meet your guide at the VMT Madeira Kiosk, then hop aboard a comfortable catamaran equipped with toilets, a bar, and plenty of space for relaxing or taking photos. The safety briefing sets the tone for a smooth cruise, and the boat’s scenic views make every moment memorable.

The Journey Along the Coast

As you leave Funchal, the scenic views of the coastline unfold—craggy cliffs, lush greenery, and volcanic formations. The crew is known for their friendly attitude and wealth of information, with guides often sharing insights into Madeira’s geology, wildlife, and conservation efforts. This part of the cruise sets a peaceful, anticipatory tone for the adventure ahead.

Desertas Islands: Nature’s Hidden Gem

Once you arrive at the Desertas Islands, you’ll disembark onto a volcanic beach for a short guided walk. The islands cover over 12,500 hectares and have been a nature reserve for more than 25 years. Only Deserta Grande allows visitors to step onto land, and here, a conservation center educates visitors about efforts to protect the Mediterranean monk seal, one of the world’s most endangered marine mammals.

Many reviews highlight this part as a real highlight. “The guide explained the conservation work very well,” shares a traveler, emphasizing how the walk offers a chance to see endemic flora and fauna in their natural environment. The guided tour is tailored for those interested in wildlife and ecological preservation, making it more than just a sightseeing trip.

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Wildlife Watching and Water Activities

One of the top reasons to choose this tour is the chance to spot dolphins, whales, and even killer whales—a delight for animal lovers. Reviews describe “beautiful weather” and “spotting dolphins on the way back,” which makes the return journey just as exciting as the outbound trip.

Along With wildlife viewing, the calm, clear waters invite swimmers and snorkelers. Many guests praise the crystal-clear waters for their visibility and the chance to swim, snorkel, or stand-up paddleboard. The tour provides plenty of time for relaxing in the water, making it an ideal option for those wanting a mix of adventure and downtime.

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Lunch and Refreshments

The lunch buffet onboard is often described as tasty and diverse, with options suited for vegans and other dietary preferences. The bar offers a selection of drinks, so you can enjoy a cool beverage while taking in the scenic vistas. Many reviews mention the generous portions and quality of the food, which adds significant value to the overall experience.

Return Journey

After a full day of discovery, wildlife viewing, and water fun, the boat heads back to Funchal. The return trip offers more scenic views and an opportunity to reflect on the day’s highlights. The crew’s friendly attitude continues, making you feel well cared for throughout.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour includes the catamaran cruise, lunch with drinks, and the guided walk on Deserta Grande. It’s important to note that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transport to the marina.

The boat is well-equipped with amenities like a toilet and a bar, ensuring comfort during the long day at sea. Remember to bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a windbreaker, a towel, and a change of clothes—especially if you plan to swim or snorkel.

Considerations

Given the length of the tour (nine hours), it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy boat trips and outdoor activities. The tour policy explicitly states that intoxicated passengers may be refused service for safety reasons, so a responsible attitude is recommended. Also, since the tour can be canceled if weather conditions are bad or if there are insufficient participants, flexible planning is wise.

Authentic Experiences from Travelers

Many reviewers mention how knowledgeable and friendly the guides and crew are. One user praised the “useful information and pleasant attitude,” while another celebrated spotting killer whales—a memory they’ll cherish forever. The delicious lunch, including vegan options, is frequently highlighted, showing the thoughtful planning behind the experience.

Some noted minor drawbacks, such as the crowded guided walk—a challenge if you prefer quiet exploration. Others suggested adding some Latin music during the cruise to enhance the atmosphere, which many found to be a good idea for a more lively experience.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This full-day trip is ideal for nature enthusiasts, wildlife watchers, and those who appreciate a combination of scenic cruising and land-based learning. It works well for travelers who enjoy water activities like swimming and snorkeling, as well as those interested in conservation efforts.

If you’re after a relaxing day with stunning views and wildlife encounters, this tour hits all the right notes. Conversely, if you prefer shorter excursions or hotel transfers, you might find the full-day commitment a bit long.

This is a value-packed experience—combining scenic beauty, wildlife sightings, and a chance to learn about Madeira’s protected ecosystems—delivered by a friendly, professional crew.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included? No, you need to arrange your own transport to the Funchal Marina where the tour starts.

How long does the tour last? It lasts about 9 hours, including cruising, land visit, and water activities.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a windbreaker, a towel, and a change of clothes are recommended.

Can I swim or snorkel? Yes, the waters are calm and clear, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or stand-up paddleboarding.

Is food included? Yes, a tasty buffet lunch with drinks is part of the package, with options for vegans.

What wildlife might I see? Dolphins and, occasionally, killer whales or other marine mammals.

Is it suitable for children? Most likely yes, but consider the full-day length and boat comfort.

What language will the guides speak? The tour is conducted in English and Portuguese.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, with a full refund if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

What happens in bad weather? The tour can be canceled or rescheduled if weather conditions are unsafe.

In summary, the Desertas Islands Full-Day Catamaran Trip from Funchal offers an authentic, visually stunning day at sea filled with wildlife, nature, and relaxation—perfect for travelers who want to see Madeira from a different perspective while enjoying the comforts of a well-equipped boat and professional crew.