Enjoy a full-day catamaran cruise that takes you on a visit to Madeira's natural reserve. Stop at the Desertas Islands for a short guided tour, learn about the monk seal conservation efforts, and take a swim in the crystal-clear waters.

About this activity

Free cancellation: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance to receive a full refund
Covid-19 precautions: Special health and safety measures apply. Learn more
Reserve now & pay later: Reserve now & pay later to book your spot without any charges today. Learn more
Duration 9 hours: Check availability to see starting times.
Live tour guide: English, Portuguese

Highlights

Visit the Natural Reserve of the Desertas Islands by sea
Marvel at the breathtaking volcanic formations
See the conservation efforts to protect the monk seal
Stop for a swim in crystal-clear waters

Full description

On this full-day catamaran trip to the Desertas Islands you’ll sail along the south coast of Madeira Island. On arrival you’ll disembark in clear waters onto a beach of volcanic origin, where you’ll have a chance to enjoy a swim. Covering an area of 12,586 hectares the Natural Reserve of the Desertas Islands comprises all islands and islets (Ilhéu Chão, Deserta Grande, Bugio, and adjacent islets) and all of the surrounding marine area. It has been designated a nature reserve for over 25 years, and is now internationally known for its monk seal conservation efforts. Today this protected area can be visited by sea. Deserta Grande is the only island where visitors can disembark, and you’ll enjoy a guided walk to the conservation center to learn about the monk seal protection efforts and also about endemic flora and fauna.

Includes

Catamaran cruise
Lunch with drinks
Free Cetaceans guide book

Hotel pick-up and drop off

Covid-19 precautions

Safety measures in place

All areas that customers touch are frequently cleaned
You must keep social distance while in vehicles
The number of visitors is limited to reduce crowds

Traveler requirements

You are required to bring and wear a mask

Meeting point

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

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Important information

What to bring

Comfortable shoes
Windbreaker
Change of clothes
Towel
Sunscreen

Not allowed

Luggage or large bags
Intoxication

Know before you go

Be sure to bring a windbreaker and sunscreen. During the summer you might also want to bring a towel and swimwear
The catamaran is equipped with a toilet and a bar with snacks and beverages
Due to the nature of this tour and for the safety of all guests, the tour operator reserves the right to refuse service to passengers who are intoxicated or show signs of intoxication. If, as a result, your tour is canceled, you will not be entitled to a refund
There is a possibility of cancelation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet requirements or in bad weather conditions. If this occurs, you will be offered an alternative or full refund

Customer reviews

Overall rating

4.3 /5

based on 38 reviews

Review summary

Guide
4.5/5
Transportation
4.5/5
Value for money
4.2/5
Safety
4.6/5

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It was 3 hours by catamaran outbound and 3 back. Once in Desertas, we did a little guided tour of the island. we really liked the explanations that they gave us. The lunch buffet on board was very good and very complete. We may have missed some explanation while browsing but we really enjoyed the activity! And we could see animals! Highly recommended!

July 26, 2021

A fantastic trip.

We have gone to the Ilhas Desertas, the trip is approximately 2 hours by boat. There we toured the part of the visited island and practiced water sports, specifically snorkeling, but there were canoes for a walk and the monitor accompanied you with the paddle surf. Later we ate on the boat, they offered both fish and meat, and companions for all tastes; and back to Funchal. A fantastic day.

August 27, 2017

Too short stay and tour on ilhas desertas for such a long boat trip

Although the staff on the catamaran was very friendly and professional (no complaints there whatsoever), I found the whole experience to be rather disappointing. The trip to and from ilhas desertas takes a long time, and too much so in comparison to the time spent on deserta grande. The tour there is extremely short (10-15 minutes) which is really too bad. While one group does the tour, the other group has the opportunity to engage in some activities such as stand-up paddling and snorkling, but in my opinion this doesn't make up for the short stay on the island.

July 16, 2017

Desertas Islands Full-Day Catamaran Trip from Funchal

Desertas Islands Full-Day Catamaran Trip from Funchal

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A fantastic trip.

Too short stay and tour on ilhas desertas for such a long boat trip