Madeira : 5 hour East Coast boat excursion

If you’re considering a boat trip along Madeira’s east coast, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve gathered the key details to help you decide if this 5-hour excursion is the right fit for your trip. This kind of tour promises a blend of spectacular views, some time in the water, and a taste of local cuisine — all aboard a boat that aims to showcase Madeira’s rugged coastline.

What we really like about this tour is the focus on natural beauty. From towering cliffs to serene bays, it’s a visual feast. Plus, the swimming stop offers a chance to cool off in crystal-clear waters, which many travelers find refreshing and memorable. The included lunch and drinks are a bonus, especially since they’re part of the package and save you the hassle of finding somewhere to eat on your own.

However, there are some factors worth considering. Some reviews mention issues with the boat’s cleanliness and staff friendliness, which can impact your overall experience. Also, the tour’s physical demands might not suit everyone—non-swimmers and those prone to seasickness should weigh that carefully.

This tour is best suited for nature and scenery lovers who want a relaxed day on the water with a good chance to see Madeira from a different perspective. If you’re okay with the potential downsides and appreciate well-organized scenic trips, this could be a good way to spend part of your Madeira visit.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery along Madeira’s rugged east coast is the main highlight.
• Swimming and snorkeling opportunities make the trip more interactive.
• Lunch and drinks are included, offering convenience and value.
• Potential downsides include reviews of boat cleanliness and staff friendliness.
• Duration is 5 hours, with flexible starting times.
• Accessible for wheelchairs, but not suitable for non-swimmers or seasick-prone travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the Madeira East Coast Boat Tour

This tour promises a well-rounded experience centered on Madeira’s striking coastline. We’ll break down each part of the itinerary to give you an idea of what the day looks like and what you can really get out of it.

Starting Point and First Impressions

You’ll meet at the Funchal marina, pier no. 8, specifically at the Bonita da Madeira kiosk in the middle of the pier. Once onboard, expect a relaxed pace as the boat sets out to explore. The boat itself isn’t described in detail, but based on reviews, some travelers have pointed out concerns about cleanliness. That’s something to keep in mind if you’re particularly sensitive.

Ponta de São Lourenço

Your first major stop is at Ponta de São Lourenço, a natural promontory known for its dramatic cliffs and sweeping views. This is the highlight for many, offering breathtaking panoramas that are hard to match. Here, you’ll enjoy a quick swimming and snorkeling session (around 2 minutes), which many find a refreshing way to experience the area’s marine environment. Expect clear waters and rocky shores, perfect for a brief dip.

Marine and Coastal Landmarks

As you sail along, you’ll pass by notable landmarks like Cristo Rei, a towering figure overlooking the cliffs, and the Reis Magos in Caniço de Baixo, famous for its natural rock formations. The crew will generally provide explanations, making this part of the trip more engaging. Some reviews mention the crew as interactive, though others note inconsistency, so don’t expect a tour guide-level experience if that’s what you’re after.

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Santa Cruz and Machico Bay

Next, the boat travels towards Santa Cruz, a charming coastal town with a relaxed vibe. While the focus is on scenery, this stop allows you to appreciate the small-town charm and perhaps spot local life from the water.

Reaching Machico Bay, you’ll find tranquil waters ideal for a swim. This is the perfect spot to cool off after the scenic cruising. The waters here tend to be calm, making it suitable even for hesitant swimmers, though the tour notes only non-swimmers shouldn’t participate.

The Grand Finale: Ponta de São Lourenço and Baía d’Abra

Back to the coastal highlight, you’ll visit Ponta de São Lourenço — the most dramatic part of the tour — where cliffs meet the sea in a wild, rugged landscape. The views are genuinely spectacular, and many guests say this is the defining moment of the trip.

The tour concludes at Baía d’Abra Natural Reserve, an untouched area known for its biodiversity. While the boat doesn’t stay here long, the scenery and sense of remote untouched nature leave an impression.

The Practical Side

Included Items

The tour’s price covers several perks that make it worthwhile. You’ll start with a welcome Madeira wine, which sets a friendly tone. The lunch is pre-arranged and includes a free drink—options range from water, Coca-Cola, beer, or wine—plus some fruit. While some might prefer more customization, this is a decent inclusion for a half-day trip.

What’s Not Included

If you’re hoping for private transport or parking assistance, keep in mind these aren’t included and you’ll need to arrange your own way to the marina. Since the tour is five hours, you’ll want to allow enough time to arrive and return without stress.

Timing and Accessibility

The tour lasts about five hours, with start times varying based on day and availability. It’s accessible for wheelchair users, which is a plus. However, it’s not suitable for non-swimmers or those prone to seasickness, so plan accordingly.

What to Bring

Be sure to pack sunscreen, sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, snacks, and a jacket—the weather can change quickly at sea. No large luggage or pets allowed, and glass objects are prohibited for safety reasons.

Real Traveler Feedback

While some reviews highlight the stunning views and the enjoyable swimming stop, others paint a different picture. One reviewer mentioned having to contact the provider multiple times about pickup times, and described the boat as dirty and unkempt, with staff being unfriendly. That’s definitely something to consider—if cleanliness and crew attitude are big for you, you might want to double-check.

A reviewer pointed out that the experience wasn’t recommended due to these issues, which serves as a reminder that while the scenery is incredible, the overall experience can vary depending on the day and crew.

On the positive side, many travelers rave about the views along the coast, calling it “breathtaking,” and appreciate the swimming stop as a highlight. The included lunch and drinks add good value for those looking to make a relaxed day of it.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This boat tour is best suited for nature lovers and scenery enthusiasts who are comfortable spending time on the water. If you enjoy quick dips in the sea and want to see Madeira’s coastline from a different perspective, you’ll probably enjoy this experience. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for a half-day adventure with some stunning visuals and a casual vibe.

However, if you’re sensitive to boat cleanliness, prone to seasickness, or looking for a highly organized, premium service, you might find this trip a bit inconsistent. It’s worth weighing the potential for variability against the scenic highlights.

Final Thoughts

All in all, the Madeira east coast boat excursion offers a decent way to see some of the island’s most dramatic landscapes from the water. The combination of cliffs, charming towns, and peaceful bays makes it appealing for those wanting a scenic, relaxed day. The swimming stop and included lunch are definite pluses that add to the value.

That said, the experience hinges a lot on the crew and boat condition, so manage expectations accordingly. If you’re flexible and prioritize incredible views and a taste of local marine beauty, this trip could be a memorable part of your Madeira adventure. If not, there are other experiences like whale watching or more luxurious cruises worth exploring.

FAQ

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour states that it is wheelchair accessible, making it easier for travelers with mobility needs to enjoy the trip.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, with starting times varying based on availability. Be sure to check your specific schedule when booking.

Are non-swimmers allowed on this trip?
This tour isn’t suitable for non-swimmers. The swimming stop involves a brief dip, so if you’re not comfortable in the water, you might want to skip this part.

Is lunch included, and what does it entail?
Yes, lunch is included with one free drink—options include water, Coca-Cola, beer, or wine—and fruit. The lunch is pre-arranged, so it’s standard fare.

What should I bring?
Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, snacks, and a jacket. Avoid large luggage, pets (except assistance dogs), and glass objects for safety.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexible policy makes booking less risky if your plans change.

In the end, this Madeira boat trip offers an accessible, scenic way to enjoy the coast, with some room for improvement in service quality. It’s especially suited for travelers eager to see Madeira’s rugged shoreline and enjoy a relaxing day on the water, as long as you’re prepared for the potential ups and downs.

You can check availability for your dates here: