Catamaran Day Cruise to Desertas Islands from Funchal

Thinking about taking a boat trip around Madeira? This catamaran day cruise to the Desertas Islands promises a full day of coastline views, wildlife encounters, and water-based fun. It’s a popular choice for travelers looking to enjoy the sea, spot dolphins, and explore some natural reserves without leaving Funchal’s harbor.

What we particularly like about this tour is how it combines sailing with plenty of chances to get in the water—snorkeling gear and stand-up paddleboards are included, which is a real bonus. Plus, the chance to see the protected Desertas Islands, home to various wildlife and stunning landscapes, makes this trip stand out.

On the flip side, a common concern is that the actual time spent on the islands can be less than what the tour description suggests, especially if weather conditions aren’t great. Some reviews mention the wind making the trip a bit windier and longer than expected, which can impact your overall experience.

This tour suits those who enjoy being on the water, appreciate wildlife viewing, and don’t mind a longer boat ride. It’s especially good if you’re after a blend of adventure, relaxation, and scenic views—perfect for active travelers and nature lovers alike.

Key Points

• Full-day experience with approximately 9 hours of sailing, swimming, hiking, and relaxing.
• Includes snorkeling and stand-up paddleboarding for water enthusiasts.
• Wildlife spotting opportunities, such as cetaceans and seabirds, add an extra layer of interest.
• A delicious Madeiran buffet lunch onboard makes the day more enjoyable.
• Weather can affect the itinerary, and some travelers report less time on the islands than expected.
• No hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.

What to Expect from the Experience

This cruise kicks off at the Funchal Marina around 9:00 am, giving you a chance to start your day with a refreshing sea breeze and spectacular views. The boat is a spacious catamaran, designed for comfort and stability, with plenty of room to sit back and enjoy the ride.

The Journey to the Desertas Islands

As you leave the marina, you’ll set sail toward the Desertas Islands, a small archipelago known for their unspoiled beauty and protected wildlife. While the tour’s description highlights that the islands are inhabited by numerous land and marine animals, it’s important to note that the actual visit might be affected by weather conditions, like wind, which can influence the timing and route (as some reviews mention).

One review specifically notes that, due to weather, the boat couldn’t visit the islands as planned but managed to sail south from Funchal instead. This alternative route allowed passengers to observe cetaceans and seabirds, which many found equally delightful. The crew’s flexibility in changing plans based on weather seems to be appreciated, as it can turn a potential disappointment into a different kind of memorable experience.

The Island Stop & Activities

Once at the Desertas, around three hours are usually allocated for enjoying the natural surroundings. This includes options like hiking on the small trails, swimming in clear waters, or simply sunbathing on virgin beaches. The reviews indicate that the hike is relatively short, but enough to give you a taste of the island’s untouched environment.

Water sports are readily available, including snorkeling and stand-up paddleboarding, both of which are included in the tour. Snorkeling gear is provided, and we loved the idea of getting a closer look at underwater life—though the visibility and marine activity depend on weather and water conditions that day.

Lunch & Onboard Comfort

A key highlight is the Madeiran fish buffet lunch, served on the boat. Travelers rave about the quality and freshness of the food, describing it as a satisfying break amid the day’s activities. Select beverages are included, making it easy to relax and refuel without worrying about extra costs.

Wildlife & Scenic Views

This trip offers a good chance to see native wildlife in their natural environment. Several reviewers have enjoyed spotting dolphins during the sail, and seabird watching is also common. The boat’s live commentary enriches the experience, providing context and interesting facts about the islands and marine life.

Practical Tips

Keep in mind that the cruise does not include hotel transfers, so plan your transportation to the marina accordingly. The tour is suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness, as some walking or water activity may be involved. Children are welcomed but should be supervised, especially around water.

The tour’s popularity means it’s booked around 28 days in advance, so if you’re interested, booking early is wise. The cost is about $106 per person, which reflects a full day of sailing, food, and activities, offering good value considering the inclusions.

The Realities According to Reviews

While many found this cruise to be a worthwhile adventure, some reviews highlight a few downsides. One reviewer noted that the actual time spent on the islands was less than three hours, and the hike was brief. Others mention that water conditions can be windy, making the ride choppier and the trip longer.

A few travelers were disappointed by the lack of opportunities to explore the islands in depth, especially if they hoped for wildlife encounters like seals or more extensive hikes. However, most appreciated the opportunity to see cetaceans and seabirds during the sailing.

That said, the crew’s knowledge and friendliness are frequently praised, making up for any minor inconveniences. Tourists seem to agree that the landscape views from the water are stunning, and the onboard lunch is a solid plus.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re looking for a balanced day on the water with chances to swim, snorkel, and enjoy scenic views, this trip is a good pick. It’s especially appealing for those who enjoy being out at sea and want to combine relaxation with a bit of activity.

However, if you’re seeking an extensive exploration or detailed wildlife tours, you might find this trip somewhat limited. The wind factor is something to consider if you’re sensitive to choppier seas or prefer a calmer ride.

This experience is best suited for active travelers, groups of friends, or couples who appreciate a mix of outdoor fun, good food, and wildlife viewing. It’s also a good choice for families with older children who can handle a full day on the water.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. You’ll need to make your way to the Funchal Marina for the start of the trip.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for sun protection. If you plan to snorkel or paddleboard, don’t forget your swimwear and a towel. It’s also wise to bring a camera and some cash or cards for any extra snacks or beverages.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Children are welcome, but they should be accompanied by an adult. Travelers should also have moderate physical fitness levels.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If poor weather leads to cancellation, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Windy conditions could also change the itinerary, with some reviews mentioning less time on the islands.

Is the food onboard good?
Yes, most travelers rave about the Madeiran fish buffet lunch, describing it as fresh and tasty, with drinks included.

How long is the boat ride?
The entire experience lasts around 9 hours, including the boat ride, island stop, water activities, and lunch.

Final Thoughts

This catamaran cruise from Funchal offers a nice mix of sailing, wildlife viewing, and water fun, all wrapped into a full-day package. If you’re after a relaxing, scenic trip with some active elements like snorkeling, it’s a solid option. The crew’s friendliness and the quality of the included lunch stand out as real bonuses.

That said, it’s worth keeping expectations realistic—some may find the island visits shorter than hoped, and weather can influence the route. This tour is best suited for those who love being on the water, want to see Madeira from a different perspective, and don’t mind a full day out at sea.

If you’re planning to book, do so well in advance to secure your spot, especially in peak season. With its combination of scenery, wildlife, and tasty food, it’s a memorable way to experience the stunning coasts and protected islands of Madeira.