Full Day Private Charter

If you’re considering a day at sea in Madeira, a full-day private yacht cruise might just be what you’re looking for. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, I’ve seen enough reviews and details to give you a clear picture of what to expect. This experience promises a blend of luxury, adventure, and tranquility, with options to explore either the western or eastern coastline of the island.

What I really appreciate about this tour is the personalized nature—it’s all about your group, your pace, your interests. Plus, the chance to enjoy crystal-clear bays, dramatic cliffs, and picturesque villages from a private boat sounds pretty unbeatable. That said, it’s worth noting this isn’t a typical sightseeing tour with fixed stops; it’s more like having your own boat for a day, which is fantastic if you want flexibility. If you’re after a peaceful escape or a family-friendly adventure (with safety measures in place), this could be just what you need.

One thing to keep in mind is the weather—since you’re out on the water all day, wind or rain can affect the experience. But generally, the tour includes a light lunch and premium local wines, making it a relaxing and indulgent way to enjoy Madeira’s scenery. It’s perfect for those who love the water, appreciate a touch of luxury, and want an intimate, memorable day at sea.

This tour will suit travelers craving a luxurious, private experience more than a large-group sightseeing trip. If you’re traveling with a partner, friends, or even a small family that enjoys boating, you’ll find this a flexible, memorable choice. Now, let’s explore what makes this experience stand out, and some of the nitty-gritty details you’ll want to know.

Key Points

• Exclusive Private Experience: Enjoy a fully personalized day at sea aboard a luxurious yacht.
• Stunning Coastal Views: Sail past Madeira’s rugged cliffs, hidden coves, and picturesque villages.
• Flexible Route Options: Choose either the Western or Eastern coast for your exploration.
• Includes Food and Drink: Savor a light lunch with local wines while soaking in the scenery.
• Activities and Relaxation: Swim, snorkel, or simply lounge on deck while crew handles safety.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: The trip covers skipper, fuel, drinks, snorkeling gear, and safety equipment.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What the Tour Offers: A Closer Look

Experience the Best of Madeira’s Coastline

This full-day private cruise is all about experiencing Madeira from a different perspective. Whether you pick the Western Coast, passing sights like Câmara de Lobos, Cabo Girão, Ribeira Brava, and Ponta do Sol, or opt for the Eastern Route with Garajau, Caniço, Santa Cruz, and Ponta de São Lourenço, you’re in for some seriously dramatic scenery.

The Western route is renowned for rugged cliffs meeting the ocean, giving you a real sense of the island’s wild beauty. The Eastern coast, on the other hand, offers a mix of rocky promontories and quieter beaches—ideal if you want some peace and privacy. Whichever route you choose, you’ll be treated to stunning views that are better appreciated from the water than from land.

What’s Included and How It Works

Your day starts at Marina Funchal, with the boat waiting just in front of the kiosks at Cais 8. The skipper will take care of navigation and safety, leaving you free to relax and enjoy the ride. The trip includes fuel, drinks, and a light lunch—a simple but thoughtful touch that makes the day feel special. You’ll also have snorkeling gear, should you wish to splash in the water.

A common theme in reviews is how well the crew manages safety while keeping the atmosphere relaxed—so even if you’re not a confident swimmer, you can still enjoy the bays. The crystal-clear waters are ideal for a quick dip or snorkel, and many guests appreciate the chance to cool off after soaking up the sun on deck.

The Experience: What You’ll Do

The trip’s pace is tailored by your group, but generally, you’ll sail past dramatic cliffs, stop in secluded bays, and explore quiet coves. You might find yourself swimming or snorkeling in calm, clear waters, or simply lounging with a drink in hand, soaking in the expansive views of Madeira’s coastline.

Guests report that the scenery is breathtaking, with many saying, “We loved the way the cliffs towered above us” and “The hidden coves were like discovering secret beaches.” Others appreciate the flexibility—you can opt to spend more time relaxing or exploring, depending on what suits your mood.

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Food and Beverage

The light lunch features local wines and simple, tasty fare. While not a full gourmet meal, it’s enough to keep you energized and makes the journey feel even more special. Many reviews highlight that the local wines were a highlight, adding a touch of authenticity.

The Pros and Cons

The Highlights

• The private aspect means you’re not stuck in a large, noisy group. It’s all about your party.
• The scenic routes offer some of the best coastline views Madeira has to offer.
• The flexible itinerary allows you to tailor your day—more swimming, more relaxing, or exploring hidden spots.
• Inclusions like snorkeling gear, drinks, and a light lunch make it a good value for a full day on the water.

The Downsides

• If you’re not comfortable on boats, this might not be ideal—there’s no mention of stability or specific boat features.
• The weather can impact the trip—rough seas or rain could dampen the experience, so good weather is a plus.
• It’s on the pricier side compared to group tours, but the exclusivity and comfort might justify the cost.
• The day’s flexibility means some might find it less structured if they prefer fixed stops or guided commentary.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those who value luxury and privacy and want to see Madeira’s coast without the crowds. It’s well-suited for couples, small groups of friends, or small families seeking a boat trip that offers both adventure and relaxation.

If you’re someone who enjoys being on the water, appreciates good scenery, and wants the convenience of a personal crew to handle navigation and safety, this cruise will check those boxes. It’s also a strong choice if you’re looking for a romantic or special occasion outing.

The Bottom Line

A full-day private yacht cruise in Madeira offers a unique way to see this stunning island. It balances spectacular scenery, personalized service, and relaxed comfort. While weather and cost are factors to consider, the overall experience appears to be a memorable blend of exploration and leisure.

For travelers who love the water, enjoy scenic coastlines, and prefer a tailored experience over a crowded tour, this private charter stands out as a top contender. It’s best suited for those seeking a luxurious escape where they can set their own pace and indulge in the natural beauty of Madeira.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is private and offers flexibility, it’s not explicitly marketed as family-friendly. If traveling with children, consider their comfort with being on a boat and swimming. Safety gear is provided, but adult supervision is necessary.

What should I bring on the trip?
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, and a towel for swimming. A light jacket might be good if it’s windy. Don’t forget your camera for all those scenic views.

How long do stops for swimming or snorkeling last?
The specific timing isn’t detailed, but you’ll have plenty of opportunities to swim or snorkel during the day, depending on your group’s preferences.

Can I choose between the Western and Eastern routes?
Yes, the experience offers options to explore either the Western or Eastern coast, allowing you to tailor your day based on what scenery appeals most.

What’s included in the price?
The trip covers the skipper, fuel, drinks, snorkeling gear, and a light lunch with local wine.

Is the trip weather-dependent?
Yes, since it’s an outdoor water activity, bad weather could impact the experience. It’s best to check the forecast and be flexible with rescheduling if needed.

How far in advance should I book?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before if needed, but booking ahead is recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred date and route.

In the end, if you’re after a luxurious, private day at sea that showcases Madeira’s rugged beauty and offers a mixture of relaxation and adventure, this tour hits the mark. It’s a great choice for those who want to enjoy the island’s coast from a comfortable, personalized vessel, with plenty of photo opportunities, dips in the water, and a taste of local wines.

You can check availability for your dates here: