Desertas Islands Full-Day Catamaran Trip from Funchal

Desertas feels wild in a way Madeira on land just can’t match. You sail offshore into a protected nature reserve and land at volcanic shoreline for swims, guided talks, and conservation education tied to the monk seal.

What I love most is the mix of boat time and real access to Deserta Grande, plus the practical fun factor once you’re there: swimming, snorkeling, and even paddle boarding show up as part of the day, not as extras you chase yourself. The lunch on board is also a solid part of the value, and it tends to be good enough that you do not feel like you skipped a proper meal ashore.

One thing to think about is logistics on and off the water. Getting from the boat to shore involves rocky, slippery footing, and the whole trip is not set up for people with mobility impairments.

Key Things to Know Before You Go

• Protected area by sea: You’re visiting a big marine reserve tied to long-term habitat protection.
• Monk seal conservation focus: The guided walk centers on what’s being done to protect the monk seal, even if you do not see one.
• Only Deserta Grande is where you land: Your time on the islands is structured, not a free-form hike.
• Volcanic shore swim stop: You get clear-water time right after landing, with volcanic rock underfoot.
• Wildlife sightings can happen: On the cruise you might spot dolphins and whales when conditions are right.
• A full water-and-food day: Lunch with drinks plus swimming, snorkeling, and paddle boarding make it feel like a complete package.

Why the Desertas Islands Reserve Feels Different From Regular Sightseeing

This is not a quick “see a view from a distance” day trip. The Desertas Islands Natural Reserve is set up to protect both land and the marine zone around it, and the boat itinerary is built around that reality. You spend hours moving through open water, then you land where the scenery actually changes under your feet.

The conservation angle matters too. You do not just get pictures of the monk seal story. You get a guided walk connected to the work being done, plus explanation about endemic flora and fauna you may not notice from a brochure. I like that the trip teaches you how this place is managed, not just that it exists.

And for the active-minded, the day is built around water time. You get a swim right off the landing area, and later you have options like snorkeling and paddle boarding. Even if you do nothing beyond floating and relaxing, you still come away with that “this was real” feeling.

Getting Oriented in Funchal and Settling Into the Catamaran Day

Your day starts at the VMT Madeira Kiosk at the Funchal Marina. No hotel pickup is included, so plan your own short transfer into the marina area. Once you’re on the catamaran, you’ll get a safety briefing and start with scenic views along the south coast of Madeira.

This matters more than you might think. Those first hours set the mood. If the weather cooperates, the sailing portion can feel like part of the show, especially as the crew keeps an eye out for marine life. If the wind is up, you’ll feel it more once you’re out in open water, so getting positioned early and dressing smartly helps a lot.

The catamaran itself is practical for a full day. It has a toilet and a bar with snacks and beverages, which is handy when you want something quick without waiting for lunch.

The Open-Water Cruise: When Whales and Dolphins Show Up

The best surprise on this kind of trip is wildlife sightings that happen naturally. On this route, there’s a real chance of seeing dolphins and whales along the way. When that moment clicks, it makes the day feel less like a fixed schedule and more like you’re sharing the ocean with it.

You can’t control the animals, but you can control your comfort so you are ready. Bring a windbreaker, and keep your sunscreen handy even if the sky looks changeable. One practical tip from experience: the sun can still feel strong on the water, while the wind can make your skin feel cooler than you expect.

If you’re a wildlife watcher, you’ll also like that the crew is not just driving the boat. The day runs with a “look around” rhythm during travel times, so you are not stuck indoors waiting for the next stop.

Landing on Deserta Grande: Volcanic Rocks, Clear Water, and a Real Swim Stop

Deserta Grande is the only island where visitors can disembark, so you should think of the island time as focused rather than sprawling. You arrive to clear waters and step onto a beach of volcanic origin. The setting is dramatic: dark rocks, bright water, and that feeling of being close to an unspoiled place.

This is the part many people remember. The swim stop is not a token splash. You get enough time to change your brain from land sightseeing mode into sea mode, and the water tends to look clean enough that snorkeling feels tempting right away.

The main drawback is shore access. Getting out of the small landing boat can be tricky because the stones can be slippery. I strongly recommend swim shoes or shoes you do not mind getting wet, like water-friendly sandals with grip. Flip-flops often fail here. If you’re steady on your feet, you’ll be fine. If you’re not, plan for extra caution and take your time.

The Guided Walk and Monk Seal Conservation Center: What You Learn Matters

Once you’re on Deserta Grande, you’ll take a guided walk connected to the conservation center. This is where the day shifts from fun water activities to education you can actually use.

You learn about the monk seal protection efforts and also about endemic flora and fauna found in the reserve. Even if you never see a monk seal in the water that day, the information helps you understand why this reserve is set up with limits, controls, and long-term goals. That context is valuable because it keeps your experience grounded in conservation rather than just “nature tourism.”

One important consideration: you should not expect a guaranteed monk seal sighting. Seeing the animals in the wild is never something any tour can promise. What you can count on is the conservation story, the walk, and the chance to appreciate the place as a protected habitat.

Also, keep your expectations realistic about walking. This is not a long trek. It’s a guided walk as part of the island experience, so if you’re hoping for a full hike through multiple viewpoints, you might feel the island is more structured than adventurous.

Lunch on Board With Drinks: Simple, Satisfying, and Often Vegetarian-Friendly

Lunch is included with drinks, served on board. For a 9-hour day, this is one of the biggest “value” components, because it saves you from buying food while also keeping your time schedule from shrinking.

From what I’ve seen, the lunch tends to be plentiful, and dietary needs are commonly accommodated, including vegetarian and vegan options. That is a big deal when you’re trying to book an excursion and not worry about finding a separate meal or eating something you do not want.

Here’s how to make lunch work for you. If you know you’ll snorkel later, eat with a little lightness, then keep water handy. The catamaran bar is there too, so you can top up during the day without waiting.

Snorkeling and Paddle Boarding: The Best Way to Turn Scenery Into Memory

After the guided island time, you’ll have additional water activities. The day includes swimming, snorkeling, and stand up paddleboarding as options. If you’ve ever been disappointed by tours that promise activities but deliver only awkward time blocks, this one is more generous.

Snorkeling is especially nice because the volcanic shoreline and clear water can make for easy viewing, even if you are not an advanced swimmer. You do not need to be a scuba diver. If you can float and breathe calmly, you’ll likely enjoy it.

Paddle boarding adds a different view of the water and shoreline. It can also be a great “reset” between busier parts of the day. If you’re not experienced, go slow and stay near the guidance or where crew support is closest. A steady start beats trying to prove anything to yourself.

Price and Value: Is $106 Worth a Full Day at Sea?

At about $106 per person for a roughly 9-hour experience, you’re paying for more than sightseeing. You’re paying for access to a protected reserve by sea, a guided walk on Deserta Grande tied to conservation education, and a day structured around real water time.

You also get lunch with drinks included, plus the catamaran has basic onboard amenities like a toilet and snack bar. For many travelers, food and drink costs alone can wipe out a chunk of a day tour budget if meals are not included. Here, lunch helps keep the whole day from turning into a pile of little purchases.

The value is strongest if you want the full day package: sailing, a guided island component, and multiple water activities. If you only care about a quick scenic stop and you hate boats, you might feel the cost is more than you need. But for an all-in sea day, the structure is hard to beat.

What to Pack for a Windy, Water-Heavy Madeira Day

Pack like you’re going from deck to beach and back again. The tour instructions are clear on what to bring, and the reviews reinforce the details that matter.

Bring:

• Comfortable shoes with grip
• A windbreaker (open water wind can feel chilly)
• Change of clothes
• Towel
• Sunscreen

On top of that, I recommend swimwear under your clothes if you can. The island water time can move quickly, and you’ll save yourself stress by not waiting to dry off and change later. If you tend to get cold easily, consider warm layers under the windbreaker, especially in shoulder seasons.

Also, you should plan for limited storage. Large bags and luggage are not allowed, so travel light. Alcohol and drugs are also not allowed, and the operator can refuse service if someone appears intoxicated.

Comfort on Board: The Trade-Off for a Fun, Active Day

The catamaran format is part of what makes this trip feel energetic. But comfort is not equal across the board. One issue that comes up is seating. Some people find the bench-style seating hard, especially on longer stretches.

If you’re sensitive to back discomfort, bring your own comfort solution if permitted by the operator. Even a small personal item can make a big difference when you’re spending hours on water.

Finally, remember that the day mixes sun and wind. You might start warm, then cool down fast when you’re exposed. Layering fixes this better than guessing.

Who This Trip Suits Best, and Who Might Feel Frustrated

This is a great match for you if:

• You want a full day on the water from Madeira, not just a short coastal cruise
• You enjoy snorkeling and other light adventure activities
• You like conservation-focused explanations and want context, not only scenery
• You’re okay with a structured island visit rather than free roaming

It’s not a good match if you:

• Have mobility impairments, because disembarkation and landing can be difficult
• Need a long hike or lots of independent exploring time on the island
• Want a guaranteed monk seal sighting, because sightings are never promised

If you’re traveling as a couple or a small group, this kind of day can feel especially satisfying because you share the “we saw it” moments, like dolphins or whales if they appear.

Should You Book This Desertas Islands Catamaran Trip?

Book it if you want a well-rounded sea day that combines volcanic island scenery, a guided conservation walk, and real time in the water. The value improves when you care about the full package, especially lunch with drinks and the mix of swim plus snorkeling plus paddle boarding.

Skip it, or at least rethink your plan, if you struggle with rocky, slippery landing conditions, need high mobility support, or want a long, independent hike. Also, if monk seal sightings are your only goal, treat this as a conservation and habitat experience rather than an animal viewing guarantee.

If the weather is reasonable and you pack for wind, this is one of those Madeira outings that feels like you left the ordinary behind.

FAQ

How long is the Desertas Islands catamaran trip from Funchal?

The duration is 9 hours.

Where do I meet the guide for the trip?

Meet your guide at the VMT Madeira Kiosk at the Funchal Marina.

Is hotel pick-up and drop-off included?

No. Hotel pick-up and drop-off are not included.

What is included in the price?

The price includes the catamaran cruise and lunch with drinks.

What is the cancellation policy?

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility impairments?

No. It is not suitable for people with mobility impairments.