Desertas Islands Full-Day Catamaran Trip from Funchal

If you’re looking to experience the wild side of Madeira, this full-day catamaran trip to the Desertas Islands offers a mix of scenic sailing, wildlife watching, and relaxing swimming spots. The experience, run by VMT Madeira Catamaran, promises a smooth cruise along the island’s southern coast with stops at a protected marine reserve known for monk seal conservation. It’s a chance to see untouched landscapes, learn about local fauna, and enjoy a delicious onboard lunch—all in one well-organized package.

What really shines about this tour is how it combines nature and comfort. You’ll get to see volcanic formations and pristine waters from the deck of a spacious catamaran, then hop ashore for a guided walk that’s both educational and engaging. Plus, reviews consistently highlight the friendly crew, knowledgeable guides, and tasty food, making it a worthwhile choice for anyone wanting a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation.

That said, there are some considerations. The trip involves navigating open waters, so if you’re prone to seasickness, it’s worth considering your comfort level. Also, the tour is not suitable for those with mobility issues, as the island walk can be challenging for some. This experience suits travelers who enjoy marine environments, wildlife, and a day out on the water with plenty of opportunities to swim and snorkel.

This tour is perfect for nature lovers, families, and anyone eager to explore Madeira’s marine reserve in comfort. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a repeat traveler, this full-day cruise offers a comprehensive, fun, and educational way to see some of Madeira’s most captivating natural sites.

Key Points

• Scenic sailing: Enjoy a nine-hour cruise along Madeira’s south coast, offering stunning views and a relaxed vibe.
• Wildlife encounters: Spot dolphins, whales, and learn about monk seal conservation efforts, making this tour educational as well as fun.
• Island exploration: Disembark at Deserta Grande for a guided walk and visit the conservation center.
• Fresh onboard cuisine: Savor a well-received lunch with drinks included, with options for special diets like vegan.
• Family-friendly: The tour is ideal for those wanting a full-day activity, but not suitable for mobility-impaired travelers.
• Weather considerations: Seasickness could be a factor; check the weather forecast before booking.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Desertas Islands Full-Day Catamaran Experience

Starting the Journey from Funchal

Your adventure begins at the Funchal Marina, specifically at the VMT Madeira Kiosk. It’s a straightforward meeting point, with easy access and a friendly crew ready to set sail. The cruise departs after a safety briefing, which is thorough but brief enough to keep the mood light. The vessel, a spacious catamaran, is equipped with modern amenities: a toilet, bar, and plenty of space to relax.

The initial part of the voyage offers sweeping views of Funchal and the surrounding coastline. Expect the crew to point out notable landmarks and give a bit of background on Madeira’s maritime history. This first stretch sets a lively, anticipation-building tone for the day ahead.

Cruising Along the South Coast

The cruise itself is described as scenic and comfortable. The boat’s large windows and open deck provide fantastic spots for photos and dolphin spotting—something multiple reviewers praised. The gentle ocean breeze, combined with the sound of the waves, makes it a soothing experience, even if the weather isn’t perfect. Some reviews mentioned that even when the weather was less than ideal, the crew’s cheerful attitude kept spirits high and the day enjoyable.

Making Your Way to the Desertas Islands

After roughly three hours at sea, you arrive at the Desertas Islands, a stunning volcanic archipelago protected as a natural reserve for over 25 years. The highlight here is the opportunity to disembark on Deserta Grande, the only island accessible to visitors. This is a rare chance to step onto unspoiled terrain and connect more intimately with nature.

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Guided Tour and Conservation Center

Once ashore, you’ll join a guided walk to the conservation center, where guides share how efforts are underway to protect the monk seals—an endangered species that calls these islands home. It’s a fascinating aspect of the trip, especially because the guides are knowledgeable and eager to share their expertise. A reviewer mentioned that the explanations about flora and fauna added a lot of value, turning a simple walk into an educational experience.

Activities in the Marine Reserve

Back on the boat, activities abound. Many guests indulge in swimming in the crystal-clear waters, with some trying out snorkeling or stand-up paddleboarding. The water temperature varies seasonally, but the reviews confirm that the swim in this protected marine environment is a major highlight. A few travelers noted that the natural setting felt untouched, offering a genuine sense of adventure.

Lunch onboard is consistently praised—stated as tasty and diverse, with some reviewers mentioning they appreciated the vegan options. The bar serves drinks and snacks throughout the day, making the trip feel relaxed and indulgent.

Return Journey and Scenic Views

The return leg offers more chances for wildlife spotting—dolphins, whales, and seabirds are common companions. Some reviews shared memorable moments of spotting killer whales and bottle-nosed dolphins, making the trip unforgettable for animal lovers.

Why This Tour Offers Real Value

At $102 per person, the trip provides a well-rounded package. The price covers the cruise, guided tour, conservation education, lunch, and all the onboard amenities. Considering that a day’s worth of multiple activities—sailing, wildlife watching, island exploration, and swimming—is bundled together, it’s an excellent value for those wanting a full-day adventure that’s both fun and informative.

The tour also offers the benefit of being flexible in terms of cancellation—free up to 24 hours in advance—adding peace of mind. Plus, booking now and paying later gives you flexibility for your planning.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Trip

• Bring sunscreen and a windbreaker—the ocean breeze can be strong, and sun exposure intense.
• Pack a towel and change of clothes if you plan to swim or snorkel.
• Wear comfortable shoes for the island walk—sandals or sturdy walking shoes are recommended.
• No large luggage allowed—pack light for ease onboard.
• Seasickness? Consider medication, especially if you’re sensitive to open water.

What to Expect in Terms of Group Size and Atmosphere

While not explicitly detailed, reviews suggest a friendly, intimate atmosphere with a good crew-to-passenger ratio. The guides are praised for their knowledge, and the crew’s friendliness creates a welcoming environment. Expect a moderate-sized group—big enough to feel lively but small enough for personal interaction.

Authentic Insights from Past Travelers

One reviewer shared that even with less-than-ideal weather, the trip was fantastic thanks to a friendly crew and tasty lunch. Another noted that the trip’s real highlight was spotting whales and dolphins—something that truly made the experience memorable. The guides’ efforts to show as many species as possible were appreciated, although some found the guided walk a little crowded, impacting the ability to hear or fully enjoy the explanations.

Many guests also loved the way the trip felt close to the untouched environment, emphasizing how the boat navigates open waters with wildlife in their natural habitat. The opportunity to see marine life up close without interference was a recurring compliment.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This full-day catamaran trip appeals most to nature enthusiasts, wildlife lovers, and those craving a leisurely day on the water. If you enjoy scenic sailing, dolphin and whale watching, and getting a taste of Madeira’s less touched landscapes, this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s especially suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers wanting an organized yet authentic experience.

Keep in mind, the trip’s length and outdoor nature mean it’s less suitable for travelers with mobility limitations, and seasickness could be a concern for some. But overall, it offers a refreshing escape from the more crowded tourist spots, providing a genuine connection with Madeira’s marine environment.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included? No, transportation to the meeting point at Funchal Marina is not included; you meet directly at the VMT Madeira Kiosk.

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

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, giving flexibility to travelers.

Is the tour suitable for children? The tour is family-friendly but may not be suitable for very young children or those with mobility issues, due to walking on uneven island terrain.

How long does the boat cruise last? The full experience lasts approximately 9 hours, including sailing, island exploration, and onboard activities.

Are drinks and snacks available onboard? Yes, the boat has a bar with snacks and beverages, and lunch is included in the price.

What wildlife might I see? Dolphins, whales, and monk seals (in the conservation area) are common sightings, along with various seabirds.

Is there snorkeling or stand-up paddleboarding? Yes, both activities are offered if weather conditions permit, and they’re highlighted as enjoyable parts of the day.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers? Absolutely, many reviews mention solo travelers feeling welcomed and enjoying the social atmosphere.

What is the best time of year to go? While specific seasonal details aren’t provided, most reviews reference good weather during the trip, suggesting summer or early autumn are ideal.

To sum it up, this Desertas Islands full-day catamaran trip offers an excellent balance of scenic sailing, wildlife encounters, and island exploration. The knowledgeable guides, combined with the chance to relax and enjoy delicious food, make it a standout experience for those wanting to see Madeira from a different perspective. Whether you’re a nature lover or just looking for a memorable day on the water, this tour delivers on both adventure and comfort.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby