From Funchal: Wooden Boat Excursion to Desertas Island

Taking a boat trip to the Desertas Islands from Funchal is often described as a blend of adventure, relaxation, and natural discovery. This excursion offers a chance to see Madeira’s wild coastline, encounter marine life like dolphins and whales, and explore an untouched slice of nature. It’s a perfect way to escape the crowds and enjoy a more authentic, maritime side of the island.

What we particularly love about this tour is the chance for frequent marine sightings—including dolphins, pilot whales, and even a hammerhead shark, according to some visitors—making every trip unpredictable and exciting. The stunning landscapes and cliffs you approach by boat are genuinely impressive, providing countless photo opportunities. However, some travelers may find the 7.5-hour duration a bit long if they’re not used to boat trips or have limited time.

This experience suits those who crave natural beauty, wildlife encounters, and a laid-back, scenic day on the water. It’s ideal for travelers looking for a mix of adventure and calm, who enjoy being on the sea and exploring remote places. If you’re after a relaxing yet lively way to see Madeira’s marine life and rugged coast, this tour might be just right.

Key Points

• Wildlife Watching: High chances of spotting dolphins, whales, and even sharks.
• Natural Beauty: Breathtaking coastal landscapes and impressive cliffs.
• Authentic Experience: Guided tour with insightful commentary from knowledgeable guides.
• Comfort & Value: Includes drinks, lunch, and fruit, making the day well-rounded.
• Flexible Options: Multiple pickup points and optional hotel transfers.
• Memorable Moments: Opportunities to swim, walk, or simply relax on the boat.

An Honest Look at the Wooden Boat to Desertas Islands

This tour from Funchal is more than just a boat ride; it’s a window into Madeira’s marine life and rugged coastline. Operating at a reasonable price of $113 per person for roughly 7.5 hours, it offers a full day of adventure with plenty of opportunities to see local wildlife and enjoy spectacular scenery.

The Journey Begins: Departure and Pickup

The tour kicks off at the marina, specifically from the Bonita da Madeira kiosk at pier 8. You’ll need to check the available starting times, but generally, the trip lasts around 7.5 hours. If you opt for pickup, you’ll need to inform the provider about your hotel location in areas like Machico, Santa Cruz, Caniço, or Funchal itself, making the logistics easier.

Leaving the marina, the boat swiftly sets course into the Atlantic, and the maritime atmosphere kicks in immediately. The vessel itself is likely a traditional wooden boat, enhancing the feeling of authenticity and connection to Madeira’s seafaring history.

Marine Life and Scenic Marvels

One of the biggest draws of this trip is the possibility to see marine creatures in their natural environment. Reviewers consistently mention spotting dolphins—both bottlenose and pilot whales—and even whales at times. Some fortunate travelers have observed hammerhead sharks, adding an extra thrill to the day.

The guides, who speak both English and Portuguese, are praised for their knowledge and friendliness. Agnieszka describes the crew as “nice” and “interesting,” with Filip calling them “extremely friendly and competent.” Their insights often enhance the experience, making marine sightings even more memorable.

Approaching Desertas: Landmarks and Cliffs

As the boat draws near the islands, the landscape becomes more dramatic. The imposing cliffs and untouched coastline are awe-inspiring, offering a sense of remote wilderness. It’s a far cry from the busy port of Funchal, and the quiet beauty of the islands makes the entire journey worthwhile.

Disembarking and Exploring Desertas

Once docked, travelers are free to explore the island’s natural environment. The tour includes a brief 20-minute guided walk, which provides context on the unique flora and fauna of this protected reserve. There’s also the option to swim or simply relax on the boat, taking in the views or enjoying the provided refreshing drinks, fruits, and a typical Madeira wine welcome.

The island’s natural trail offers a glimpse into its untouched wilderness, and some reviews mention the opportunity to see interesting fauna and flora up close. The calm waters and lack of crowds make it ideal for observing nature intimately.

Return Journey and Refreshments

On the way back, the crew offers a refreshing drink, either fresh juice or hot chocolate depending on the season. Lunch, including drinks and fruit, is served during the trip, making the experience feel complete and well-catered. Guests often mention the value of the included refreshments as part of the overall experience, especially considering the length of the trip.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Natural beauty and wildlife are the main highlights. The combination of panoramic views, the chance to see playful dolphins and graceful whales, and the opportunity to walk along pristine paths really set this tour apart. The authenticity of a wooden boat, paired with friendly guides, makes for a memorable day.

Many reviewers, including Ian and Filip, emphasize how informative and engaging the guides are. They provide interesting commentary, enhancing the adventure beyond just sightseeing. The fact that some trips include sightings of pilot whales, dolphins, and even sharks speaks to the trip’s potential for exciting wildlife encounters.

Practicalities: What to Expect and How to Prepare

The trip is long, so packing wisely is important. Bring a towel, swimsuit, jacket, comfortable shoes, and waterproof footwear—the sea breeze can be chilly, and you might want to swim or walk on the island. Since the trip covers many miles, it’s suitable for those comfortable on boats and with a spirit for adventure.

The tour is suitable for most ages and physical abilities, but those prone to seasickness should consider taking precautions. The boat is traditional and open, so weather conditions can influence comfort; a jacket is recommended even on sunny days for the breeze.

The itinerary includes multiple drop-off points in Funchal, Caniço, Ribeira Brava, Câmara de Lobos, Machico, and Santa Cruz, offering flexibility if you’re staying in different parts of the island.

Value for Money

For $113, this tour provides a full day of exploration, wildlife spotting, and scenic beauty, with meals and drinks included. The combination of a guided experience, wildlife encounters, and exploration of a protected area makes it a good value. Compared to other similar experiences, the focus on authenticity, comfort, and natural immersions enhances its appeal.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This excursion is perfect for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and travelers seeking a quieter, more intimate experience of Madeira’s coast. It suits those who enjoy boat trips, marine life, and scenic walks, and are comfortable spending time on open water for several hours. Families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a relaxed yet adventurous day will find it rewarding.

If you’re after a combination of wildlife sightings, beautiful landscapes, and authentic maritime charm, then this trip offers a genuine taste of Madeira’s natural treasures.

The Sum Up

This wooden boat excursion from Funchal to the Desertas Islands offers a well-rounded experience filled with wildlife encounters, dramatic scenery, and relaxed exploration. The possibility to see dolphins and whales up close makes it especially appealing to animal lovers, while the untouched landscapes provide a perfect backdrop for memorable photos. The inclusive lunch and drinks add value, and the friendly guides make the experience approachable and informative.

While the 7.5-hour duration is quite a commitment, it’s a good choice for those eager to truly enjoy Madeira’s marine and natural environment. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want a mix of adventure, relaxation, and authentic discovery away from crowded tourist spots.

For anyone wanting to connect deeper with Madeira’s sea life and rugged coastlines—without breaking the bank—this excursion is a genuine winner.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The trip includes a guided 20-minute natural walk, lunch, drinks, fruit, and a welcome drink of Madeira wine. On the return, you get a refreshing juice or hot chocolate depending on the season.

Are hotel pickups available?
Yes, hotel pickup is optional. You should inform the activity provider of your hotel location in areas like Machico, Santa Cruz, Caniço, Funchal, Câmara de Lobos, or Ribeira Brava to arrange pickup details.

How long does the trip last?
The full excursion lasts approximately 7.5 hours, but start times vary depending on the day and availability.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, swimsuit, jacket, comfortable shoes, and waterproof footwear. Sunscreen and sunglasses are also recommended.

Can I swim during the trip?
Yes, you can swim if you like, especially during your free time on the island or while enjoying the boat.

What wildlife might I see?
Most likely, dolphins, pilot whales, and sometimes even sharks like hammerheads. The sightings depend on the day’s marine activity.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the data doesn’t specify, the length and nature suggest it’s suitable for most travelers comfortable on boats, including families with children, provided they are okay with being at sea for several hours.

In summary, if you’re after a relaxed yet engaging day exploring Madeira’s marine life and rugged coastline, this wooden boat trip to Desertas offers an authentic and rewarding experience tailored for nature enthusiasts and curious explorers alike.