Two words: catamaran, wildlife.

This full-day ride from the Funchal Marina takes you out to the Desertas Islands area, where you spend time on land (on a beach) and also get wide-open views from the water with live guidance in English.

I especially liked the built-in water time: you get snorkeling equipment and the option to try stand-up paddle, so the day isn’t just sitting and looking. You also get a Madeiran buffet lunch on board, which helps make it feel like a real excursion and not a quick stop-and-go boat trip.

One heads-up: the trip can feel windy and cold when you’re cruising, and if conditions limit time onshore, the beach and walk time may be shorter than you expect.

Quick Takeaways

• Desertas wildlife time: you’re in a protected area where marine and land animals are the main event
• Snorkel + SUP included: you can switch between relaxing and actually in-the-water exploring
• Full-day pacing: roughly 9 hours, with time split between sailing and beach time
• English live commentary: helpful context as you go, not just scenery
• Weather matters: winds can change how the day plays out

A 9-Hour Catamaran Day to the Desertas: How the Timing Works

This is a true day cruise, running about 9 hours starting at 9:00 am and returning to the same meeting spot. The overall rhythm is simple: sail out, spend a chunk of time around the Desertas Islands, then sail back while you soak up the views.

What makes the timing work is that you get more than one kind of experience. You’re not stuck watching the coastline from deck the whole day. You also get a beach visit where you can cool off, plus snorkeling and stand-up paddle time when conditions allow.

Getting to the Catamaran in Funchal (and Why It Matters)

You meet at Praça do Povo area (listed as Praça do Povo/J3WR+9P, Av. do Mar 4, São Martinho, 9000-900 Funchal). There’s no hotel pickup, so you’ll want to build in buffer time to get there without stress.

The good news: the meeting point is described as near public transportation. If you’re staying in Funchal, plan for a short, direct trip to the marina area. If you’re using a taxi or rideshare, aim to arrive early enough to get settled before the boat departs.

Bring layers. Even in Madeira sunshine, the water can bring on a cooler, windier feel once you’re out moving. A light windbreaker plus a warm layer can make a big difference between enjoying the day and constantly wishing you were warmer.

Out to Sea from Funchal: The Wildlife-Spotting Part You Came For

Once you leave the marina, you’re sailing out toward the Desertas Islands region, which travelers often describe as a true natural sanctuary. The highlight here is wildlife: you’re not just looking at islands, you’re watching animals in their own habitat.

On calmer days, the boat experience can be great even before you reach the islands. People have reported spotting cetaceans such as dolphins and even orcas on the way out. Seabirds are also part of the picture, and the live commentary in English helps you understand what you’re seeing instead of guessing.

Practical tip: if you want the best odds for spotting, hang out where you can see both sides and keep your eyes scanning the water surface and horizon. A quick camera check every few minutes beats repeatedly filming nothing.

The Islands Themselves: Virgin Beach Time and What to Expect Onshore

You’ll reach a group of islands in the Desertas area. Despite the name, these places aren’t empty. They’re tied to native wildlife on both land and sea, and that’s why the landing time is the core of the excursion.

The experience is designed around getting onto a virgin beach after sailing out. Once you’re there, you’ll have time for beach relaxation and the kind of short, on-foot exploring the day allows.

Here’s the honest expectation-setting: not every sailing day plays out the same. Some people found that the on-island time and any walking portion can be shorter than the idea of a big adventure suggests—especially if wind and sea conditions are strong. If you’re hoping for a long hike, keep your expectations flexible and focus on beach time plus wildlife spotting.

Also, understand that wildlife rules can affect access. There’s mention of not being able to see certain animals at peak times (seasonal reality), and at least one situation where swim access was limited due to animal presence. In other words, the day isn’t about forcing activities—it’s about respecting the sanctuary.

Snorkeling Gear and Stand-Up Paddle: What You Can Actually Do

The best part of this cruise for active people is that snorkeling equipment and stand-up paddle are included. That changes the tone of the day from passive tourism to hands-on exploring.

Snorkeling is a straightforward win: you get a close look at what’s happening underwater rather than only seeing birds and boats from above. And because the crew provides the gear, you’re not scrambling to rent or buy anything at the last minute.

Stand-up paddle (SUP) is more of a bonus-style activity. It’s there if conditions and timing work out. If you’re traveling with kids or you want a simpler water option than full-on swimming, SUP can be a fun middle ground—assuming you’re comfortable on the board.

Practical tip: wear what you’ll be able to get wet in. Put sunscreen on early, then reapply when you’re done in the water. If you run cold easily, bring something warm and dry for after you’re done so you don’t spend the return cruise shivering.

On-Board Lunch: Madeiran Buffet and the Timing Reality

The day includes a Madeiran buffet lunch on board, and that matters more than it sounds. A full-day cruise lives or dies by energy level, and food helps keep the mood positive—especially when you’re out at sea.

That said, timing can shift. If your return to the catamaran is delayed or the sailing pace changes, the meal can come later than you expect. Plan for a normal travel-day appetite: snack before you go if you tend to get hungry early, and keep an easy mindset about when the buffet appears.

The lunch is also part of the value. At around $108 per person, you’re not only paying for sailing—you’re paying for a whole day with included equipment and food.

Wind, Cold, and Route Changes: The Weather Plan You Should Assume

This cruise depends on weather. Strong winds can affect how smoothly the catamaran moves and whether the boat can follow the plan exactly.

In particular, people have described days where the boat couldn’t visit the Desertas as expected due to winds, and the itinerary shifted to still give wildlife viewing time. That’s not ideal if you came specifically for the beach landing, but it can still be a worthwhile day—especially if you’re hoping for animal sightings while at sea.

What you should do: dress and pack like the sea might be rough. A windproof layer, grippy shoes you trust on a boat deck, and patience with a schedule that can flex will make the experience feel smoother.

If seasickness is a concern for you, consider taking the usual precautions you trust before a boat day. I can’t promise comfort, but I can say that windy, choppy conditions are a real possibility on Madeira catamaran routes.

Who This Cruise Is Best For (and Who Might Want a Different Plan)

This trip fits best if you want a day that mixes scenery with actual activity. It’s especially good for people who:

• want wildlife viewing without doing a long driving day
• plan to snorkel and/or try SUP
• like guided context through live commentary in English
• travel as a family, since children must be accompanied by an adult

If you hate wind, cold boat rides, or you need a very predictable minute-by-minute schedule, you might feel frustrated. When conditions limit onshore time or swim access, you’ll still get a great boat experience, but the day may feel less like the big checklist you pictured.

That also goes for anyone expecting a major hiking program. The on-foot time is more about short exploration and beach access than a big trail trek.

Value for Money: Is $108.37 Worth It?

At about $108.37 per person, this doesn’t feel like a bargain priced for a quick sightseeing boat. But it also isn’t just a scenic cruise.

You’re getting:

• a full day at sea (about 9 hours)
• snorkeling equipment included
• stand-up paddle included
• live commentary in English
• a Madeiran buffet lunch on board
• a capped group size (maximum 70 travelers)

When you add those up, the price feels more reasonable. This isn’t a bare-bones catamaran ride; it’s set up to be an active day with wildlife and water time. If you’ll use the snorkeling or SUP, you’re likely to feel like you got your money’s worth.

Should You Book the Catamaran Day Cruise to the Desertas?

Book it if you want a water-focused Madeira day with wildlife, snorkeling gear, and included SUP, plus a meal that keeps you fueled. I’d also say it’s a smart choice if you like guided context—live English commentary makes the trip easier to enjoy because you know what you’re looking at.

Skip it or choose another option if you’re highly sensitive to wind and cold, or if you need guaranteed long onshore time and a big hike. This is a nature trip, and nature runs the schedule.

If you do book, pack for the sea: a windbreaker, warm layer for the return, and water shoes help you stay comfortable while you focus on the real reason to go—the Desertas’ wildlife and the feeling of being out there where nature still calls the shots.

FAQ

How long is the Catamaran Day Cruise to Desertas Islands?

The duration is about 9 hours.

What time does the tour start and where is the meeting point?

It starts at 9:00 am at Praça do Povo (Av. do Mar 4, São Martinho, 9000-900 Funchal, Portugal), and it ends back at the same meeting point.

Is hotel pickup included?

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

What activities are included in the tour?

The tour includes live commentary, use of snorkeling equipment, and stand-up paddle.

Is the tour offered in English?

Yes, the experience is offered in English.

Is it suitable for children?

Children must be accompanied by an adult, and it’s described as a trip you can bring the whole family on.

What fitness level do you need?

The tour requires a moderate physical fitness level.

Do I need good weather for this cruise?

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

What is the group size limit?

The tour has a maximum of 70 travelers.