Desertas Islands Full-Day Catamaran Trip from Funchal

If you’re heading to Madeira and looking for a way to combine stunning scenery, wildlife encounters, and a bit of relaxation, the Desertas Islands Full-Day Catamaran Trip might just be up your alley. While I haven’t taken this exact tour myself, I’ve gathered enough insights to give you a clear picture of what to expect—and why it could be a memorable part of your trip.

What really draws people in are the breathtaking volcanic formations and the chance to see the elusive Monk seals in their natural habitat. Plus, the sea swim and optional water activities like snorkeling and paddleboarding add a nice touch of adventure. That said, it’s not perfect for everyone—some might find the long boat ride a bit tiring, or prefer more relaxed sightseeing on land. This trip is most suited for those who enjoy sea excursions, wildlife watching, and scenic boat rides.

Key Points

• Scenic cruise along Madeira’s coast with marine wildlife sightings
• Visit the natural reserve of the Desertas Islands, including a guided walk
• Opportunity to swim, snorkel, or paddleboard in clear waters
• Includes lunch and drinks, making the day hassle-free
• Approximate 9-hour experience, ideal for full-day explorers
• Not suitable for those with mobility issues or seeking land-based activities

You can check availability for your dates here:

What’s Included and What to Expect

This tour is offered by VMT Madeira Catamaran, and it’s designed to give you a full day of sailing, sightseeing, and relaxation. For around $102 per person, you get a catamaran cruise that takes you along the south coast of Madeira, with several highlights along the way.

The day starts at the Funchal Marina, where you meet your guide at the VMT Madeira Kiosk. From there, you’ll hop aboard a comfortable catamaran equipped with a toilet and a bar serving snacks and beverages—so you won’t go hungry or thirsty. The crew is generally described as friendly and helpful, and the safety briefing ensures everyone feels comfortable before the boat departs.

Once underway, you’ll enjoy the scenic views of Madeira’s coastline and volcanic landscape, which are truly worth the trip alone. The trip is described as relaxing, but also packed with opportunities to spot dolphins, whales, and, if you’re lucky, killer whales. Many reviews highlight how impressive the marine life sightings are, with some saying it was a highlight of their experience.

The Desertas Islands: Why They Matter

The Desertas Islands are a protected natural reserve that covers over 12,500 hectares. Made up of Ilhéu Chão, Deserta Grande, Bugio, and surrounding islets, they’re a vital habitat for monk seals—one of the main conservation success stories in the region.

Deserta Grande is the only island where visitors can disembark, which makes this tour more exclusive. Once on land, you’ll enjoy a guided walk to the conservation center and learn about efforts to protect the monk seal, endemic flora, and fauna. Visitors often find this part particularly interesting—it’s a chance to connect with nature in a very raw, untouched setting.

One reviewer pointed out that the guided walk can be a bit crowded, which might make it harder to fully enjoy the experience. It seems that in general, the guided tour provides valuable information, but smaller groups might enhance the enjoyment.

Water Activities and Scenic Moments

After the land visit, you’ll head back to the boat for some downtime. This is usually when people jump into the crystal-clear waters for a swim or try some snorkeling. Some even take advantage of stand-up paddleboarding—a great way to explore the coastline from the water.

The reviews are filled with praise about the quality of the lunch served aboard. Expect a buffet-style meal with drinks, and many mention that the food is tasty and diverse—including vegan options in some cases. The crew’s effort to cater to dietary preferences is appreciated, adding to the overall value.

Scenic Views and Wildlife Encounters

One of the biggest draws is the spectacular scenery—volcanic formations, rugged coastlines, and open ocean vistas. We loved the way these natural features create a dramatic backdrop for your day at sea.

Wildlife sightings are another highlight. Several reviews mention dolphin sightings on the way back from Desertas, as well as the chance to see bottlenose dolphins and killer whales. It’s these unexpected moments of marine life popping up around the boat that make the experience exceptional for many travelers.

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The Practical Side: Timing, Group Size, and Cost

The tour lasts about 9 hours, giving plenty of time for sailing, stopping, and relaxing. The starting times are flexible—be sure to check availability in advance. Since the trip doesn’t include hotel pickup, you’ll need to meet at the marina, which is straightforward but requires some planning.

Group size varies, but reviews suggest the experience feels intimate enough to enjoy the scenery and wildlife, without feeling overly crowded. The price point of $102 strikes me as reasonable, considering the length of the trip, included meals, and the chance to see wildlife and visit a protected reserve.

Downsides and Considerations

While most reviews are positive, some points are worth considering. The guided walk around the conservation center can be crowded, making it a bit less intimate than some might prefer. The long hours at sea might be tiring for some, especially if you’re prone to seasickness—though most travelers seem to find the boat comfortable enough.

Also, the tour is not suitable for those with mobility impairments or anyone who prefers land-based activities. Since the tour doesn’t include hotel transfers, you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This catamaran trip is a fantastic pick for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone keen to see Madeira from the water. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy boat rides and marine wildlife spotting. Families with older children might find it enjoyable, but it’s not designed for those with mobility issues or very young kids.

If you’re seeking a full-day adventure that combines scenic vistas, marine life, and a touch of conservation learning, this tour offers a lot of bang for your buck. The included lunch and drinks make it a hassle-free experience, giving you more time to relax and enjoy the surroundings.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the experience mainly involves boat cruising and wildlife viewing, older children should enjoy the adventure. It’s not specifically tailored for very young kids or those with mobility issues.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a windbreaker, a change of clothes, a towel, and sunscreen. Since you’ll be swimming, packing swimwear is also a good idea.

Is there a bathroom on the boat?
Yes, the catamaran is equipped with a toilet, so you won’t have to worry about that during the day.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour includes a buffet lunch with drinks. The food is generally praised for being tasty and varied, with vegetarian and vegan options available.

What wildlife might I see?
Many travelers report dolphin sightings, including bottlenose dolphins, and occasionally killer whales. The area is also home to monk seals, which you’ll learn about during the guided walk.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility for your travel plans.

In all, this Desertas Islands catamaran trip offers a well-rounded blend of scenery, wildlife, and relaxation. If you’re after a full-day sea adventure that takes you into the heart of Madeira’s natural beauty, it’s hard to beat the value and experience this tour provides. Just remember to pack your sense of adventure—and maybe some extra sunscreen!

You can check availability for your dates here: