From Funchal: Wooden Boat Excursion to Desertas Island

If you’re looking to add a touch of adventure and natural beauty to your Madeira trip, this wooden boat excursion to Desertas Island could be just what you need. It’s a trip that promises plenty of chances to spot marine life, enjoy spectacular views, and breathe in pure Atlantic air—perfect for those who love being on the water and exploring remote landscapes.

What we really like about this tour is the possibility of seeing dolphins, whales, and even sharks — that’s not something you’ll get every day. Plus, the scenery is genuinely breathtaking, especially as you approach the cliffs of the Desertas. On the flip side, this is a full-day outing (around 7.5 hours), so it’s best suited for travelers who are comfortable with boat trips and good weather. If you’re after a relaxed way to connect with nature, this tour offers a wonderful blend of adventure and serenity.

This experience suits travelers who are curious about marine wildlife, enjoy scenic boat rides, and want to explore a protected natural reserve in Portugal’s Atlantic. It’s ideal for those seeking a memorable, immersive day away from the crowds—especially if you’re up for a bit of a boat-based adventure.

Key Points

• Marine wildlife sightings are highly likely, with dolphins, pilot whales, and possibly sharks on the horizon.
• Stunning landscapes showcase rugged cliffs, pristine coastlines, and untouched nature.
• The guided tour provides interesting insights into the local environment and wildlife.
• The full-day format includes lunch, drinks, and a chance to swim or walk on land.
• Flexibility in stops—you can swim, walk, or relax on the boat during free time.
• Accessible meeting points and optional pickup in several areas make it easy to join.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the Boat Trip to Desertas Island

Imagine setting sail from the lively marina in Funchal, feeling the salt air and hearing the hum of the boat’s engine. The wooden boat adds a charming, traditional touch, making the journey all the more memorable. As we understand it, the experience is well-suited for those who enjoy a scenic cruise with plenty of chances to spot wildlife, thanks to the route covering a good stretch of waters—meaning more sightings.

The Journey Outward

The trip begins at the marina’s Pier 8, where the friendly crew welcomes you with a Madeira wine to kick things off. From there, the boat departs, and you’ll cruise through the Atlantic, with anticipation building as the coastlines of Madeira fade into the distance. The crystal-clear waters make spotting marine creatures easier, and the boat’s route is designed to maximize wildlife encounters.

Marine Life Watching

One of the big draws here is the possibility of seeing dolphins and whales. Many travelers rave about how exciting it is to watch pilot whales or bottlenose dolphins swim alongside the boat. Some reviews even mention spotting sharks, like a hammerhead, which is pretty rare for such tours. The crew seems to be quite knowledgeable, offering interesting commentary during the trip—adding a layer of education to the fun.

Approaching Desertas

As the boat makes its way toward the islands, you’ll notice the dramatic cliffs and untouched shorelines. The Desertas are a protected natural reserve, so there’s a quiet, untouched feel to the landscape. The approach alone is worth the trip, especially if you’re a fan of dramatic coastlines.

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Disembarking and Exploring

Once at Desertas, there’s a chance to disembark and explore. You’ll have about 20 minutes of guided walking—an opportunity to see the island’s flora and fauna up close. The island’s natural beauty is a highlight, with rocky trails, seabirds, and scenic views. After some land time, you can choose to walk around, go for a swim, or simply relax back on the boat.

Onboard Comfort and Food

The experience includes lunch, drinks, and fruit, making it more than just a boat ride. In addition, there’s a return drink, either fresh juice or hot chocolate, which is a nice touch depending on the season. The welcome Madeira wine at the start and the meal make the journey feel more complete—perfect when combined with the scenic views and wildlife encounters.

The Itinerary – How the Day Unfolds

• Start Point: The boat departs from the marina at Pier 8, with a clearly marked kiosk (Bonita da Madeira).
• Duration: About 7.5 hours, with flexible start times—check availability.
• Multiple Drop-off Options: The tour offers stops at 7 different locations, including Funchal, Caniço, Ribeira Brava, Câmara De Lobos, Machico, and Santa Cruz—making it convenient to join from various parts of Madeira.
• Return: The trip concludes back at the starting point, giving you a full day out on the water.

What the Reviews Say

Travelers who’ve experienced this trip seem genuinely pleased. One reviewer called it “very nice, relaxing, spectacular views,” appreciating the refreshing swim and the interesting wildlife sightings like dolphins and a hammerhead shark. Another praised the friendly and competent crew and the appeal of seeing pilot whales and dolphins—”Loved it and would recommend.” A third mentioned how informative the guide was and how they wrapped up their day with whale and dolphin sightings, making the trip feel complete and rewarding.

Practical Details and Tips

The price of around $113 per person is fairly typical for a full-day boat experience that includes food, drinks, and wildlife spotting. Considering the likelihood of seeing various marine animals and exploring Desertas, many would agree this offers good value—especially if marine life interests you.

What to Bring

• Towel and swimsuit: for swimming or relaxing on the boat.
• Jacket and waterproof shoes: the weather can change quickly, and a light jacket will keep you comfortable.
• Comfortable shoes: for walking on land or hiking around the island if you choose to explore.

Accessibility and Booking

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility if your plans change. You can also reserve now and pay later, which is handy if you want to lock in your spot but stay flexible.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re a fan of marine wildlife and scenic boat rides, this trip checks many boxes. It’s perfect for those who enjoy being on the water for an extended period and are okay with a full-day outing. Nature lovers will appreciate the chance to see deserted islands and rugged coastlines, while wildlife enthusiasts will love the high chances of spotting dolphins, whales, and perhaps even sharks.

This tour might be less ideal if you’re prone to seasickness or prefer shorter excursions. Also, since it’s about 7.5 hours long, it suits travelers with a flexible schedule and good weather conditions.

The Sum Up

For anyone visiting Madeira who wants a full immersion in nature and marine wildlife, this wooden boat trip to Desertas Island offers a charming, authentic, and rewarding experience. The combination of scenic sailing, wildlife sightings, and exploring an untouched island makes it stand out from more typical sightseeing options.

It’s especially well-suited for adventure-minded travelers who want to see the Atlantic’s marine life and enjoy a peaceful day in nature. The included lunch, drinks, and the chance to witness dolphins and whales make it feel like good value, and the friendly crew adds to the welcoming vibe.

While it’s a longer tour, the breathtaking views and memorable encounters are likely to stay with you long after your trip ends. If you’re comfortable on boats and eager to see Madeira from a different perspective, this experience could be a highlight of your visit.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the data doesn’t specify age restrictions, boat trips of this length and activity are often enjoyable for families. Just consider if your kids are comfortable on a boat for 7.5 hours and able to handle some time outdoors.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes a welcome Madeira wine, lunch, drinks, fruit, and a return drink (fresh juice or hot chocolate). It’s a good all-in-one package that covers your main onboard needs.

Can I see marine life during the trip?
Yes, the route covers a large area, increasing the chance of seeing dolphins, pilot whales, and even sharks, according to reviews.

Where do I meet the boat?
The starting point is Pier 8 at the marina in Funchal, at the Bonita da Madeira kiosk. You’ll get precise pickup details if you book with pickup options.

Is there flexibility in the stops?
Yes, after arriving at Desertas, you’ll have about 20 minutes for a guided walk, and then free time to walk, swim, or relax.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, swimsuit, jacket, comfortable shoes, and waterproof shoes to stay comfortable during the trip.

How long is the entire tour?
Approximately 7.5 hours, including travel, exploration, and meals.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to reserve your spot, but you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour.

If you’re after a memorable day on the water, filled with wildlife and stunning scenery, this wooden boat trip to Desertas Island from Funchal is definitely worth considering. It blends adventure, tranquility, and natural beauty into one satisfying package.

You can check availability for your dates here: