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
Reserve now & pay later: Keep your travel plans flexible—book your spot and pay nothing today.
Covid-19 precautions: Special health and safety measures apply. 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

Open in Google Maps ⟶

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 48 reviews

Review summary

Guide
4.7/5
Transportation
4.5/5
Value for money
4.1/5
Safety
4.6/5

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I loved the activity for the unique opportunity it provides to see the Deserta island up close. I think it is right that access be limited to preserve this very rich area. The trip on the Catamaran was very pleasant (suggestion: for sensitive people or people with hearing problems, it is advisable to warn that they should bring earplugs due to the wind at sea). Departure from the Catamaran to the island's port is done in a boat, so people who take photographic material protect it well, as they can lose their balance due to the existing pebbles in the disembarkation area. Lunch was very well served and tasty. It was also a lot of fun to be given some time to enjoy the sea. The guides very helpful and friendly. I recommend the activity for anyone who wants to spend a different day and see a natural reserve up close and learn how it is preserved.

October 28, 2021

Definitely do it! There is a lot offered, such as a small tour of the island, SUP driving, swimming on the beach (water was very pleasant about 24 * C) and a delicious lunch and the poncha was very well made. Our guides, including Pedro, took very good care of us...

October 17, 2021

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

Desertas Islands Full-Day Catamaran Trip from Funchal

Desertas Islands Full-Day Catamaran Trip from Funchal

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