Calheta: Private Charter Aestus Luxury Boat

If you’re dreaming of soaking up Madeira’s coastline from the comfort of a sleek, private yacht, this Aestus luxury boat tour might be just what you’re after. It’s a four-hour voyage departing from Calheta, offering a chance to enjoy the calm bays, spectacular Atlantic views, and maybe even catch a glimpse of dolphins or turtles. We haven’t been on it ourselves, but from what we gather, it’s a solid option for those looking to indulge in a peaceful, personalized seafaring experience.

What stands out most is the private nature of the trip—meaning you won’t be squeezed into a large group, and you get the yacht all to yourselves. Plus, the luxury amenities and modern design of the Aestus yacht promise a comfortable ride, ideal for travelers who appreciate a bit of style and exclusivity.

On the flip side, the price tag—around $2,956 for up to 10 people—may seem steep, especially if you’re not planning to split it with a full group. And since meals and extras aren’t included, you’ll want to plan for additional snacks or drinks if you’re craving a full day of relaxation.

This experience fits best for travelers who want a luxury, quiet escape at sea, and don’t mind paying a premium for privacy and comfort. It’s especially appealing for couples or groups seeking a special, tailored outing with the chance to spot marine life and enjoy Madeira from a different perspective.

Key Points

• Private and exclusive: Ideal for groups seeking a personalized boat trip.
• Luxurious yacht: Modern amenities, spacious cabins, and comfort onboard.
• Scenic views and wildlife: Perfect for admiring Madeira’s coastline and spotting dolphins or turtles.
• Flexible and customizable: 4-hour trip with options to explore east or west coast.
• Cost considerations: Higher price point; meals and extras are additional.
• Family-friendly: Suitable for those wanting a relaxed, upscale experience at sea.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Details of the Aestus Luxury Yacht Tour

This private charter departs from Porto de Recreio da Calheta, a charming marina that’s easy to reach and offers a peaceful starting point. The boat itself, the Aestus (an Azimuth Atlantis 50), feels more like a floating luxury apartment than just a vessel. It features 2 double bedrooms, a bedroom with two single beds, a stylish living room, and a modern kitchen. There are 2 bathrooms onboard, plus sun decks at both the bow and stern for catching the sun or watching the sunset. The cockpit area serves as a recreation zone, perfect for relaxing with snacks or drinks.

The itinerary is flexible, but generally, you’ll spend your time exploring the coast of Madeira—either heading east or west from Calheta. The tour promises peaceful, calm bays that are inaccessible by land, which means you’ll get a unique chance to see parts of the coastline that are otherwise hidden. The highlight for many is the sunset views, often described as breathtaking and worth every penny for the magical scenery.

Marine life sightings are another perk. Guests have the chance of spotting dolphins, turtles, or whales, which adds an element of wonder to the trip. Several reviewers have remarked on the knowledgeable guides, who can spot and explain marine species, making the experience both relaxing and educational.

The trip includes a snack or meal, depending on the chosen duration, but it’s best to come prepared if you’re particularly hungry or want a full meal. Since meals aren’t included in the price, you might want to bring some light snacks or drinks along—especially if you’re on the boat for a longer stretch.

What to Expect During the Trip

Starting at Porto de Recreio da Calheta, you’ll meet your crew and board the luxurious yacht. The vessel boasts impressive comfort features, so you’ll quickly settle in and enjoy the ride. The first part of your trip involves cruising along the beautiful coastline, where you can admire the lush landscapes and rugged cliffs from the water.

As you cruise, your captain or guide may point out notable landmarks or hidden bays. The calm waters are ideal for relaxing and taking photos. Keep your camera ready, as the Atlantic Ocean vistas are truly captivating, especially with the possibility of spotting marine life.

The boat’s design allows for a secluded experience—meaning less noise, fewer people, and more time to soak in the scenery. The sun decks are perfect for lounging, catching some sun, or simply enjoying the peaceful sea breeze.

One of the most praised features is the chance to witness a spectacular sunset over the Atlantic. Many guests find this the most memorable part of the trip—an incredible display of colors over the ocean horizon that feels very special.

In terms of marine life, reports indicate that the guides are quite adept at spotting dolphins, with some guests noting they even saw turtles. While whale sightings are possible, they are not guaranteed; nature is unpredictable after all. Still, the chance of encountering marine species adds a layer of excitement.

The experience concludes back at the marina, giving you plenty of time to reflect on the day or explore nearby Calheta before heading off.

The Cost and What You Get

At nearly $3,000 for a group of up to 10, this tour is definitely a premium experience. The price reflects the luxury yacht, private access, and personalized service. When you consider that you’re getting a 4-hour private cruise with a modern vessel, the cost could be reasonable for those who value exclusivity and comfort.

However, since meals and extras aren’t included, you might want to budget for additional snacks, drinks, or even some personal gear. This flexibility allows you to tailor the experience to your preferences, but it also means the total expense can add up if you’re planning a full-day outing.

The booking process offers the advantage of flexibility—you can reserve now and pay later, with full cancellation possible up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy if your plans are somewhat uncertain.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private yacht experience is best suited for couples, families, or friends wanting a luxury, peaceful escape at sea. It’s ideal if you appreciate comfortable, modern amenities and enjoy the idea of exploring Madeira’s coast in a personalized setting.

It’s also perfect for special occasions—romantic getaways, small celebrations, or simply those wanting to treat themselves to a more upscale experience. If you’re traveling with children, you’ll want to consider their comfort with boat trips and the level of supervision needed, but the yacht’s amenities and calm waters generally make it a manageable outing.

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Final Thoughts

For travelers who want a private, elegant way to see Madeira’s coastline, the Aestus luxury yacht offers a compelling experience. The modern accommodations and the chance to witness stunning sunsets and marine wildlife make this quite a memorable way to spend a few hours at sea. It’s a trip that emphasizes personalized service and peaceful scenery, far removed from crowded tours.

While the price may deter some, the exclusivity and comfort could justify it for those seeking a special treat or a romantic escape. If you’re okay with planning for some extra snacks or drinks, and you want to enjoy Madeira from the water in style, this boat trip could be a highlight of your trip.

Just keep in mind that marine sightings are not guaranteed, and the trip’s value depends heavily on your expectations for a luxurious, private experience. If you’re looking for a simple or budget-friendly tour, many other options might be better suited. But if you’re after a peaceful, tailored, and comfortable maritime adventure, this one might just hit the mark.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically tailored as a family tour, the yacht’s amenities and calm waters generally make it manageable for children, especially older kids. Consider your child’s comfort with boat trips and supervision needs.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the private use of the yacht and the boat itself, along with a snack or meal depending on the duration. Extras like additional food, drinks, or special requests are not included.

How long is the trip?
The tour lasts approximately four hours, with starting times varying based on availability. You should check specific schedules before booking.

Can I see marine wildlife during the tour?
There is a good chance of sighting dolphins, turtles, and possibly whales, but sightings depend on nature and are not guaranteed. Guides are knowledgeable in spotting marine species.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the experience states that it is wheelchair accessible, making it somewhat easier for guests with mobility challenges.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at Porto de Recreio da Calheta, a marina near the Akikalheta-Pizaria E Café Lda restaurant.

In all, this private yacht trip offers a refined, tranquil way to explore Madeira’s coast—perfect if you value exclusivity, comfort, and personalized service. It’s more of a leisurely escape than an adventure-packed outing, but for many, that’s exactly what makes it special.

You can check availability for your dates here: