Madeira Private Catamaran Tour in Ponta de Sao Lourenço

Planning a trip to Madeira and looking for a way to truly enjoy its dramatic coast and crystal-clear waters? This private catamaran tour offers a sleek and personalized way to explore the island’s stunning scenery, marine life, and hidden bays. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a peaceful day on the water, this experience combines comfort, adventure, and flexibility in one neat package.

One of the things we love most about this tour is the customizability — you get to tailor the route and activities to match your preferences, making it less like a cookie-cutter cruise and more like your own private adventure. Plus, the onboard amenities, like paddleboards, kayaks, and snorkeling gear, mean you can actively engage with the environment or just lounge and soak up the views.

However, since it’s a private group experience, the price might be a consideration for some — at around $1,007 for up to 12 guests, it’s an investment, but one that promises a truly personalized day on the water. This tour suits families, couples, or friends wanting a flexible, intimate experience — especially those eager to explore Madeira’s coast with fewer crowds and more exclusivity.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Fully customizable routes and activities make this a tailored adventure.
• Stunning Views: The tour offers breathtaking perspectives of Madeira’s cliffs, marine life, and coastline.
• Family & Group Friendly: Suitable for private groups, with amenities and safety equipment included.
• Active & Relaxing Options: Snorkeling, paddleboarding, or simply lounging in the sun — your choice.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: Towels, safety gear, cabins, sound system, and even a kitchen on board.
• Consider Cost & Duration: It’s a premium experience, but the intimacy and flexibility add value.

An In-depth Look at the Madeira Private Catamaran Tour

Starting Point and Overall Setup

The journey begins at Quinta do Lorde Resort Hotel Marina, a convenient and scenic spot that sets the tone for a luxurious day on the water. The boat, a 15-meter Privilege catamaran, is spacious, offering ample lounging areas, a cozy saloon, and easy water access, making it ideal whether you want to chill in the sun or take a quick dip.

The dedicated crew and captain are there to ensure safety and provide local insights. With an average sailing speed of 6 knots, the boat glides smoothly along Madeira’s coast, providing an unobstructed window to admire the dramatic cliffs, lush landscapes, and vibrant marine life.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The ability to customize your route is a major highlight. You can opt for a half-day trip focusing on the Madeira coastline, visiting hidden bays and beaches, or extend to a full day exploring Ponta de Sao Lourenço, Porto Santo, and even the Desertas Islands. Some reviews mention how the flexibility allowed them to include snorkeling in specific spots that were particularly lush with marine life.

The snorkeling equipment is a big plus — guests frequently comment on the clarity of the water and the variety of marine creatures observed. One reviewer shared how they loved “seeing colorful fish and underwater rocks,” which suggests the waters here are vibrant and worth exploring.

Activities and Amenities

Onboard, you’ll find a well-stocked kitchen with a fridge and coolers, perfect for keeping snacks and drinks cold. The welcome drinks and snacks on the half and full-day trips set a relaxed tone. From towels to life jackets and safety gear, everything is provided to ensure comfort and security.

For the more active, there are paddleboards and kayaks allowing you to explore closer to shore or simply have a bit of fun in the water. The dinghy provides quick access to nearby coves or to get closer to the coast for swimming and snorkeling.

The Itinerary and Highlights

Depending on your chosen trip length, the itinerary varies:

• Half-day: Focuses on exploring Madeira’s beautiful coastline, visiting secluded beaches and coves. Expect to sail past the dramatic cliffs of Ponta de Sao Lourenço, with plenty of opportunities for photos and relaxing in the sun.

• Full-day: Expands the scope to include Ponta de Sao Lourenço, Porto Santo, and potentially the Desertas Islands, offering a broader experience of Madeira’s marine and coastal diversity.

• Overnight: For those wanting a more immersive experience, overnight trips are available with comfortable cabin accommodations and optional meal packages.

One user noted that the views of Madeira’s cliffs and marine life were especially impressive, saying they “felt like they had the island all to themselves.”

Practical Considerations

While the cost might seem high at $1,007 per group, the value lies in the personalized service, the quality of the boat, and the flexibility of the route. The tour includes all necessary safety equipment and amenities, so there are few extra costs beyond what you pack.

Timing is flexible, with check-in at the dock C where the boat, named Sensation with a distinctive green sailbag, awaits. It’s a family-friendly activity, but not suitable for children under 2, non-swimmers, or those with mobility issues.

The Experience From a Traveler’s Perspective

Reviewers praise the professional crew, mentioning Captain João and his team’s friendly but attentive demeanor. One traveler appreciated how they explained the marine wildlife they encountered, making the experience educational as well as relaxing.

Many guests value the privacy and intimacy of a private group setting, as opposed to crowded tours. They also highlight how the water-based activities allowed them to connect with Madeira’s nature in a relaxed way, making it a memorable part of their trip.

Why Choose This Tour?

This private catamaran trip is ideal if you’re seeking a bespoke, peaceful escape with stunning vistas, personalized service, and active options like snorkeling and kayaking. It’s perfect for celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying Madeira’s coast away from the crowds.

The Sum Up

This Madeira private catamaran tour offers a blend of luxury, flexibility, and adventure, making it a fantastic choice for travelers who value a tailored experience. The boat’s spacious design, the friendly crew, and the chance to explore some of Madeira’s most breathtaking scenery by water create a memorable day.

While it comes at a premium price, the overall value for an exclusive, customizable outing means you’re paying for quality, comfort, and the opportunity to see Madeira from a truly unique perspective. Whether you’re a couple looking for a romantic day, a family wanting a fun and safe water adventure, or a small group of friends craving a private escape, this tour is a versatile and rewarding option.

If you’re after stunning views, marine encounters, and the freedom to set your own pace, this private catamaran experience is well worth considering. Just be prepared for a laid-back, scenic day that promises plenty of photo-worthy moments and the chance to truly connect with Madeira’s spectacular coastline.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s family-friendly, but children under 2 years old, non-swimmers, or those with mobility issues may find it less suitable. Always check with the provider if unsure.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the private sailing experience, dedicated captain and crew, welcome drinks, snacks, towels, safety equipment, dinghy, paddleboards, kayaks, snorkeling mask, and cabin access.

Can I customize my route?
Yes, the route and itinerary are fully customizable to suit your preferences, whether you want to focus on coastlines, islands, or marine activities.

How long is the trip?
Options range from 3 hours for a half-day trip to full-day or overnight adventures. The standard duration is 3 hours, but longer trips are available upon request.

Is food provided?
Snacks and drinks are included on the half and full-day trips. You are allowed to bring your own food and drinks onboard.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, a towel, a camera, and sunscreen for sun protection.

Are there safety measures in place?
Yes, life jackets and safety equipment are provided. The crew is experienced and ensures safety throughout the trip.

Is Wi-Fi available onboard?
No, Wi-Fi is not included, so plan accordingly if you need internet access.

What is the meeting point?
Dock C at Quinta do Lorde Resort Hotel Marina, where the boat named Sensation with a green sailbag is located.

Are meals included?
Meals are not part of the standard tour but can be added as part of the overnight experience; otherwise, bring your own or enjoy snacks on board.

Can I bring my pet?
Pets are not allowed onboard for safety and hygiene reasons.

What languages are available on the tour?
Guides speak Portuguese, English, and German, accommodating most travelers comfortably.

This private Madeira catamaran tour offers a fantastic way to see the island’s coast in comfort and style, with adaptable options for a day that’s both relaxing and adventurous. Perfect for those who want an exclusive, scenic, and activity-rich experience on Madeira’s sparkling waters.