Desertas Islands Full-Day Catamaran Trip from Funchal

The Desertas Islands day trip from Funchal is interesting because you trade city views for open-ocean sailing and a protected volcanic world that few people ever reach. I like that you are not just watching from a deck, you also get a real landing on Deserta Grande and a hands-on look at the reserve’s monk seal conservation work.

My favorite part is the mix of wild nature and practical fun: you get time for a guided walk on the island, then you jump into clear water for swimming and water sports. One consideration is that the day is structured around the conservation visit and beach time, so it is not a free-form hike, and seeing monk seals themselves is not something you should count on.

Key Highlights You Will Feel

• A nature reserve you visit by sea: 12,586 hectares of protected islands and surrounding marine area
• Deserta Grande is the only landing spot: you disembark there and join the guided experience
• Monk seal focus: you learn how the reserve protects this endangered animal
• Volcanic beach time: clear water, a real swim break, plus snorkeling and stand up paddleboarding
• Wildlife on the ride: whales and dolphins are a real possibility on the journey
• Tender landing takes care: you step down onto volcanic stones, so footwear matters

Why the Desertas Islands Trip From Funchal Feels Special

This is one of those Madeira experiences where the setting does most of the talking. From the water, the Desertas Islands look like volcanic sculptures rising from the sea, and the whole day has that “we are far from everything” feeling without needing a complicated plan.

What makes it more than a sightseeing cruise is the conservation angle. The reserve has been protected for over 25 years and is internationally known for efforts connected to the monk seal. You also are not just hearing a short speech and rushing off. You get a guided walk connected to the conservation center and education about endemic plants and animals, so the day connects your swim time to the reason the island matters.

On top of that, the catamaran format keeps the day moving. You spend a large chunk actually sailing along Madeira’s south coast, not sitting in traffic or bouncing between stops. If your travel style is “do the big nature thing, then relax,” this fits.

The biggest reality check: it is a day trip, not an all-out wilderness trek. If your dream is to explore every corner on foot, you may feel limited by the guided structure.

Meeting at VMT Madeira Kiosk and Getting Your Day Started

Your meeting point is simple: meet your guide at the VMT Madeira Kiosk at the Funchal Marina. No hotel pickup is included, so you will want to build in time to get to the harbor area on your own.

Once you are on board, the pace shifts quickly into vacation mode. You get a safety briefing early, then you are out cruising with scenic views on the way. This matters because the south coast perspective is a big part of the appeal, and you want to be ready to look up, not still figuring out where you are sitting.

Bring along the small practical items that make the day easier. The tour guidance strongly points to a windbreaker and sunscreen, plus a change of clothes and a towel. I also think you should plan your swim kit around reality, not wishful thinking, because you will likely feel the wind on the water even when the island is warmer.

One last logistics note that affects comfort: the tour is not set up for people with mobility impairments. Getting from boat to tender and back is part of the day, and that can be tricky on uneven surfaces.

The South-Coast Sail: Ocean Views and Wildlife Chances

The sailing time is not just filler. It is where the day builds energy. You are out at sea on a catamaran, cruising along Madeira’s south coast, with views that are hard to replicate from land.

This is also where the wildlife moments can happen. In multiple experiences, people got lucky with dolphins and even whales. The species named in firsthand accounts include pilot whales, bottle-nosed dolphins, and even killer whales. You should not count on any specific animal appearing every day, but the fact that it comes up repeatedly tells you the route has a strong chance of wildlife sightings.

If you get motion-sick, plan ahead. The information you have does not list motion-sickness gear or guarantees, so it is smart to bring what works for you, just in case the open-ocean ride feels choppy.

Also, use the time well. Look forward when the captain points out activity. Then, when things quiet down, rotate your attention to the horizon. That is when the light and coastline views make the day feel like a real escape.

Deserta Grande Landing: Lunch, the Guided Conservation Walk, and What to Expect

Deserta Grande is the key. It is the only island where visitors disembark, and the rest of the reserve is experienced from the sea. Once you land, you will have guided time tied to the conservation center and the protected environment.

This guided walk is the heart of the “why” behind the day. You learn about the reserve’s monk seal protection efforts and also about endemic flora and fauna. That education is valuable because it turns a quick nature stop into something more meaningful. You will also feel the difference between a place that is protected and a place that is just scenic.

Lunch happens as part of this phase of the day. It is included on board, with drinks. The lunch is described as very good in multiple experiences, and dietary requirements are supported when requested, including vegetarian and vegan options.

The not-so-fun part is group logistics. The guided component can feel busy at times, and it can be hard to hear or enjoy the walk if the group stays packed. If you prefer a quiet, slower nature stroll, mentally plan for a shared experience and look for small moments to step aside and reset.

Also, keep your expectations realistic for hiking. Some people were surprised by the limited walking compared to what they hoped for. You are there to explore with guidance, not to do a long, independent hike.

Volcanic Beach Swim, Snorkeling, and Stand Up Paddleboarding

After the conservation time, the day turns into water fun. You disembark in clear waters onto a beach of volcanic origin, and that is when the “this is why I booked” feeling usually kicks in.

The water is consistently described as crystal clear, and the swim break is one of the highlights. This part is especially good if you like low-effort swimming, since you are not traveling miles inland and you are not planning a whole separate outing to the beach.

You also have options beyond swimming. The day includes snorkeling and stand up paddleboarding. That combination is a great value because you get multiple ways to enjoy the water without needing to rent gear or sign up for extra tours.

Practical warning: the transition from boat to beach involves stepping down onto volcanic stones, which can be slippery. People specifically recommend wearing beach shoes or Crocs, and they say flip-flops are usually not suitable. I agree with that advice. If your footwear plan is “whatever is closest in my bag,” adjust it before you arrive.

Weather can change how the water feels. Wind is a real factor on the catamaran, so pack a windbreaker even if the island looks sunny. You will often want warm layers for the ride after you get back from swimming.

Catamaran Comfort and Small On-Board Realities

The catamaran experience is generally positive, and the crew is praised as kind and helpful. The tour also includes a toilet and a bar with snacks and beverages, which is useful if you want something extra between activities.

Comfort can be mixed. One common complaint is that the bench-style seating can feel hard on the long parts of the day. You are out for about 9 hours, so even if you love boats, plan for a bit of rough seating.

My practical take is to change positions often. Stand up briefly when you can. Move around the deck when it is safe and not too crowded. If you have a small item that makes sitting easier for you, bring it, within the rules and with minimal baggage.

Speaking of rules: luggage or large bags are not allowed. That is normal for smaller tours, but it matters for what you pack. Travel light, then focus on the essentials listed by the operator: windbreaker, sunscreen, towel, and change of clothes.

And yes, the bar means refreshments are available onboard, but there are also restrictions. Alcohol and drugs are not allowed, and the operator can refuse service if someone shows signs of intoxication. It is part of keeping the day safe and enjoyable for everyone.

Price, Value, and When It Feels Like a Smart Buy

The price is $106 per person for a 9-hour full-day catamaran trip. On paper, that can look like a lot if you are comparing it to a simple hop-on-holiday cruise. In practice, it feels more reasonable because you are paying for a long sea journey, a guided conservation visit, and a landing time on the island.

Here is what you get that reduces extra costs:

• Catamaran cruise all day
• Lunch with drinks included
• Guided tour on Deserta Grande tied to conservation
• Swimming plus snorkeling and stand up paddleboarding

You also skip hotel pickup, which means you are responsible for getting yourself to the marina, but you are not paying for a more complicated transport plan. If you are staying near the center, getting to the marina is usually straightforward, and this can keep your total cost in check.

The value becomes even clearer if you would otherwise pay for separate beach and water activity rentals. The tour bundles them into one day with the logistics already handled.

The one value risk is expectations. If you are hoping for a “monk seals guaranteed” experience, you may feel let down. The day is about conservation education and protected nature access, not a promise of sightings. Still, the volcanic scenery, water breaks, and wildlife possibilities at sea are strong reasons to go.

Packing List That Actually Matches the Day

The operator’s list is your starting point, and I think it is spot on. Bring comfortable shoes, a windbreaker, change of clothes, a towel, and sunscreen.

Then add the “small upgrades” that make a difference:

• Swim footwear for slippery volcanic stones (beach shoes or Crocs are specifically recommended)
• A towel and clothes that dry fast, since you may go from water to cooler wind quickly
• Swimwear ready to go, because the water time can happen before you have a chance to rethink your outfit

If you are going in cooler seasons, or if you get cold easily on boats, bring warmer layers for the sailing segments. One piece of feedback points out that wind can feel cold even when the island is warmer.

Also think about what you do not bring. Large bags and extra luggage are not allowed, so do not plan to bring bulky beach gear. Keep it simple, then enjoy the fact that the tour covers the hard logistics.

One more comfort tip: with limited walking time, your shoe choice matters twice, for the tender landing and for the guided walk. Choose something stable and grippy.

Who Should Book This Catamaran Trip (and Who Should Skip It)

This trip fits best if you want a full nature day without complicated planning. You get sailing, a guided conservation connection, and multiple water activities in about 9 hours. It is also a good pick if you like the idea of being around wildlife in its natural habitat, while still respecting the protection rules of a reserve.

It is especially appealing to couples, solo travelers, and small groups who like shared experiences with a clear structure. The crew guidance and the clear itinerary flow make it feel easy to enjoy.

Consider skipping if you:

• Have mobility limitations, because the landing and tender steps are likely difficult
• Want a long, independent hike around the island, because the walking is guided and limited
• Are set on seeing monk seals during your visit, because the day focuses on conservation education rather than guaranteed sightings
• Are extremely sensitive to hard seating, since bench-style seating can feel uncomfortable for some people over the day

If you fall into the first group, you are likely to have a strong day. If you fall into the second group, it can still be a great day, but your expectations need adjusting.

Should You Book the Desertas Islands Full-Day Catamaran From Funchal?

I think you should book this trip if you want a high-value day that combines volcanic nature access with real time in the water. The included lunch, the guided walk tied to monk seal conservation, and the chance to see whales and dolphins on the way give you multiple “wins” in one outing.

I would not book it if your main goal is guaranteed monk seal spotting or if you need a highly accessible experience. The structure is fixed, and the island time is guided, not a free roam adventure.

If you do book, go in with the right mindset: the day is about protected nature and respectful access, not about chasing checklists. Pack wind protection and swim-ready footwear, then let the sea views and that clear volcanic-water swim do the work.

FAQ

Where do I meet for the Desertas Islands catamaran trip?

You meet your guide at the VMT Madeira Kiosk at the Funchal Marina.

How long is the trip?

The duration is 9 hours.

Is lunch included?

Yes. Lunch with drinks is included.

What activities are included once you reach the islands?

On Deserta Grande you get a guided walk and you can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and stand up paddleboarding.

Can I see monk seals during the visit?

The trip includes a guided visit focused on monk seal protection efforts, but the information you have does not promise monk seal sightings.

What should I bring for the day?

Bring comfortable shoes, a windbreaker, a change of clothes, a towel, and sunscreen. During summer you may want swimwear as well.

What footwear should I use for the beach landing?

Because the landing involves stepping onto volcanic stones, it helps to bring swimming shoes or shoes you do not mind getting wet. Flip-flops are usually not suitable.

Is hotel pickup provided?

No. Hotel pickup and drop off are not included.

Is the trip suitable for people with mobility impairments?

No, it is not suitable for people with mobility impairments.

Can the tour be canceled due to weather or other reasons?

Yes. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet requirements or in bad weather conditions, in which case you are offered an alternative or a full refund.