The Desertas show up fast, and then disappear.

This full-day catamaran trip from Funchal Marina takes you out to the Desertas Islands for wildlife watching and water time, with live commentary on board. I love the mix of big ocean views and practical activities like snorkeling that make the day feel full, not just scenic.

The best part is how much life you can spot in a short window—seabirds, dolphins, and sometimes even bigger cetaceans if conditions line up. I also really like that the island stop includes active options like stand-up paddle, not just standing around on a beach.

One drawback to plan for: the sea can get windy and cold, and your time on land may be shorter than you expect depending on the day’s conditions and how they manage safety.

Key points before you go

• Wind and chill are real: bring layers and something windproof for the return trip.
• Wildlife is the main event: you may spot dolphins, seabirds, and sometimes orcas en route.
• Expect short beach time: you get off onto the island, but it’s not an all-day hiking experience.
• Snorkeling + stand-up paddle are included: use the gear and plan for changing conditions.
• Swimming can be limited at the shore: seal presence can affect where you’re comfortable getting in.
• Lunch is on board: it’s included, but timing can shift if the boat returns later.

A catamaran day to the Desertas, not a long hike

The Desertas Islands are famous because they’ve stayed remote and protected. The name sounds like nothing is there, but the whole point of this trip is that the islands act like a natural refuge for marine life and land animals.

You’re on a catamaran for most of the day—so your view is always moving. That matters because wildlife tends to show up when you’re out on the water, not when you’re stuck in one spot. You also get live commentary, which helps you connect what you see (birds, marine life, island terrain) with why the area matters.

This is a 9-hour outing with a fairly small group size (up to 70 people). It’s set up for families, but it also has a bit of a “real day at sea” vibe: the itinerary is structured, yet weather and wind can change the plan.

Also, this is not a hotel-pickup tour. You’ll go to the departure area under your own steam, so build in time to reach the marina comfortably.

Getting to Praça do Povo and the 9:00 departure

Your meeting point is at Praça do Povo (J3WR+9P), Av. do Mar 4, São Martinho, 9000-900 Funchal. The boat starts at 9:00 am, and the tour ends back at the same meeting point.

You’ll want to arrive early because the schedule is tight on a day that runs on sea conditions. This is listed as near public transportation, which is great if you don’t feel like dealing with parking or taxis.

Bring your mobile ticket and keep it handy. Since children must be accompanied by an adult, plan for someone to manage kids during boarding, life-vest time, and any choppy moments.

Packing tip that pays off: dress in layers. Even if the morning feels mild, the open water can turn cool fast—especially when the boat is moving and the wind picks up.

The Desertas stop: a virgin beach, a short walk, and wildlife safety

The day’s center of gravity is a stop at the Desertas Islands, with time on land at a virgin beach area. You’re not just looking at the islands from the deck—you get off the catamaran and experience the place firsthand.

Here’s the reality check: this is not a long trekking tour. One thing that can surprise people is that the hiking portion, if you do it, is usually closer to a small trail walk than a big hike. Think “stretch your legs and take photos,” not “earned your views with miles.”

The same goes for beach time. Depending on weather and water conditions, you may get less time than the marketing language might suggest. On the bright side, when the day’s managed well, the wildlife viewing can more than compensate for a shorter ashore window.

What you should expect on the beach area is a controlled, nature-focused stop. In practice, that means swimming rules can change depending on animal presence. If seals are around, the crew may restrict where people can enter the water for safety. You’ll still have swimming opportunities from the boat, but don’t assume you’ll be able to swim from every shoreline spot.

Snorkeling and stand-up paddle: included, but use them smart

Snorkeling gear is included, along with stand-up paddle. That’s a big value point, because water time is one of the best ways to make a day cruise feel like more than transportation.

A few practical notes based on how these trips usually run:

• If the wind is up, water entry can feel colder than you expect. Wear swimwear plus a layer you can keep on while you wait.
• Don’t rely on being offered extra gear on a slow day. Some people report they had to ask for help with flippers or a tube-type setup, while others felt supported immediately. So be proactive: ask early if you want a hand getting comfortable in the water.
• The snorkeling isn’t just about seeing fish. It’s about experiencing the underwater side of Madeira’s island ecosystems right where the catamaran brings you.

Stand-up paddle is also included, which is a treat if you like being active rather than floating. With a catamaran, conditions can shift quickly, so listen to the crew about where it’s safest and easiest to paddle.

Even if you’re not an expert, the activity can be a confidence builder. You’re in a protected island setting, not an open-ocean surf zone, and the crew is there to help you make good choices.

Out on the water: orcas, dolphins, and the day can reroute

The “Desertas cruise” label matters less than the open-water wildlife element. On clear days, you can see seabirds and marine life during the run out and back.

Some of the best highlights from similar trips include:

• A pod of orcas spotted en route on at least one sailing.
• Playful dolphins while cruising around.
• Whales are mentioned as a possibility, though that depends entirely on timing and conditions.

There’s also a key operational reality: if winds are too strong, the boat may adjust the route to keep everyone safe and maintain a wildlife-focused itinerary. One sailing got rerouted, initially sailing south instead of going straight to the Desertas, and it still turned into an excellent day for cetacean and seabird spotting. That’s worth knowing because the “plan” can change, but the crew is usually working to keep the day rewarding.

And yes, that means the sea can be uncomfortable. If you’re sensitive to motion, consider bringing seasickness prevention. The windy, cold ride shows up in the negative feedback for a reason: if you’re not dressed for it, you’ll feel it more than you’ll enjoy the views.

The buffet lunch on board: good fuel, timing can shift

Lunch is part of the deal: a Madeiran buffet lunch on board. This is a smart inclusion for a full-day schedule. It saves you from trying to find food at a remote beach stop and keeps the day flowing without constant stops.

In practice, the buffet is described as tasty and satisfying. The main caution is timing. If the return gets delayed because of wind or routing, people can end up eating later than expected, sometimes while still waiting to finish the island portion. That’s not a deal-breaker, but it can affect your pacing and appetite when you’re trying to squeeze in every bit of water time.

Dietary requirements should be shared at booking. If you have restrictions, give them the details early rather than hoping it’s handled last minute.

Price and value: about $108.37 for a full day at sea

At $108.37 per person, this cruise isn’t the cheapest activity in Funchal. But it can be good value if you want a day that’s doing multiple things at once:

• Catamaran transportation for the whole outing
• Live commentary
• Snorkeling equipment
• Stand-up paddle
• Buffet lunch on board
• A real nature-focused destination with wildlife potential

If you’re the type who likes to be active and see wildlife, you’re basically paying for one ticket that bundles sea time, gear, and food.

If you mainly want hours and hours of island walking, you might feel the time ashore is short. A shorter landing, a windier-than-ideal ride, and limited shoreline swimming (when seals are present) can reduce how much “island experience” you get. In that case, you might compare this to other Madeira excursions that put more time on land.

Who this tour suits best (and who should choose differently)

This works especially well for:

• Families who want a single day that combines sea views, a beach stop, and included water activities
• People who don’t mind wind and dress in layers
• Anyone who cares about wildlife viewing and wants the chance to see dolphins or even orcas if conditions allow

You might skip it if:

• You want a long hike or lots of structured land exploration
• You get miserable in wind and cold water quickly
• You’re looking for guaranteed sightings (wildlife is always weather-and-timing dependent)

A small fitness note: you should have moderate physical fitness. That’s not about being an athlete—it’s about being able to move around the boat, get on and off for beach time, and handle short walks and water activities.

Weather rules, cancellation options, and what to pack

This cruise depends on good weather. That’s normal for any open-water outing around Madeira, but it matters here because strong winds can lead to route changes and affects comfort.

The good news is that the operator offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and if the trip is canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What to pack so you actually enjoy the day:

• A windproof jacket or shell (wind chill is a common complaint)
• Layers for warmth even if the morning is sunny
• Motion-sickness prevention if you know you’re sensitive
• Towel and a dry change of clothes for after snorkeling and paddle time
• Sun protection. Even on a cool day, the water reflects light.

Also, keep expectations flexible. The wildlife and the day’s rhythm can shift based on conditions, but that flexibility is part of what makes it feel like a real ocean trip instead of a rigid bus tour.

Should you book the Catamaran Day Cruise to the Desertas?

If you want one trip that blends wildlife watching with included water activities and a proper lunch, I think this is worth booking. The chance to see dolphins and seabirds is already a strong reason, and some sailings have even reported orcas. Add in snorkeling and stand-up paddle, and you’re not just paying for transport.

Book it with a clear mindset: it’s a day at sea with potential wind and cold, and island time can be shorter than you dream about the night before. If you dress for the elements, stay flexible, and focus on the wildlife and water activities, you’ll get a memorable Madeira day out on the open water.

If you know you get sick in rougher conditions or you hate cold weather, you might prefer a more land-based itinerary. But if you can handle wind chill and you like being active, this cruise is a solid choice.

FAQ

FAQ

What time does the Desertas catamaran cruise depart?

The tour starts at 9:00 am.

How long is the cruise to the Desertas Islands?

The duration is about 9 hours.

Where do I meet for the tour in Funchal?

You meet at Praça do Povo (J3WR+9P), Av. do Mar 4, São Martinho, 9000-900 Funchal, Portugal.

Is hotel pickup included?

No. Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included.

What water activities are included?

You get live commentary on board, use of snorkeling equipment, and stand-up paddle.

Is this tour suitable for children?

Children must be accompanied by an adult.

What happens if the weather is bad?

This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I cancel for a full refund?

Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. If you cancel less than 24 hours before the start time, it isn’t refunded.