Volcanic beaches and monk-seal protection, minus the crowds. This full-day catamaran from Funchal sails along Madeira’s south coast and lands at Deserta Grande, part of the Desertas Islands Natural Reserve and a key monk seal conservation area.

I love the guided walk to the conservation center, where you learn how protection works for the monk seal and what kinds of plants and animals call this place home. I also like the time in the water almost immediately, with a beach swim plus snorkeling and stand-up paddleboarding options.

One caution: a monk-seal sighting is not guaranteed, so go in expecting learning and conservation access more than a wildlife guarantee.

Key highlights at a glance

• Deserta Grande is the only stop where you disembark, so the visit stays focused
• Protected reserve by sea means you’re seeing both islands and the surrounding marine area
• Open-ocean sailing can bring wildlife surprises, like dolphins and whales
• Volcanic beach water time includes swimming, snorkeling, and paddleboarding
• Lunch with drinks is included, making the day feel truly full
• Bring wind protection and swim shoes, because transfer steps and boat air can be chilly

Why the Desertas Islands trip feels different from a typical island day

This is not a “quick photo stop” kind of outing. You spend the day moving through the Natural Reserve of the Desertas Islands, which covers the islands and islets plus the surrounding marine waters. That matters, because the point isn’t just to see land. It’s to understand and respect a protected ecosystem.

The most meaningful part for me is how the trip blends “on-water fun” with “real-world conservation.” You get a guided walk on Deserta Grande that focuses on monk seal protection and the island’s endemic flora and fauna. You’re close enough to feel the place, without being treated like you’re there to consume it.

That balance also explains why monk seals aren’t always visible. This area protects animals by limiting disruption. So your day can still be excellent even if you don’t spot one during your visit.

Sailing out of Funchal Marina: scenery, speed, and wildlife chances

Meeting at the VMT Madeira Kiosk in the Funchal Marina keeps things simple and central. Once you’re aboard, you get a safety briefing and then settle in for the south-coast cruise. Expect long stretches of open ocean time, plus plenty of time to take in the sea and coastline from a catamaran.

This route has a reputation for wildlife sightings, including dolphins and whales spotted on the way out or back. It’s not something you can bank on, but I like that the day is set up for it: open water view, crew watching, and time to slow down when animals appear.

Practical note: the catamaran has a toilet and a bar with snacks and beverages onboard. Lunch is included, but you can also grab extra items if you feel like extending the “food and drink comfort layer” during the longer cruise segments.

Deserta Grande landing: volcanic beach time and the tender transfer

When you arrive, you disembark at Deserta Grande, and you step onto volcanic-origin water and beach terrain. The good news: the water can be unbelievably clear once you’re there, which makes the swim and snorkeling feel instantly worth it.

The trickier part is getting in and out. You may go via a smaller boat/tender from the catamaran, and the volcanic rocks can be slippery. If you’ve only ever worn standard flip-flops on boat days, this is your sign to rethink that. Bring swim shoes or footwear you don’t mind getting wet, like Crocs-style water shoes.

Also pack for wind. Even in warm months, the sea breeze can make the air feel cooler while you’re moving around. A windbreaker keeps the day comfortable and helps you enjoy the water time instead of rushing through it.

The monk seal conservation center walk: learning the rules of a protected place

Deserta Grande is the only island stop that lets visitors disembark, and the walk is guided. This is where the trip earns its deeper meaning, because you’re not just collecting scenery—you’re learning about how the reserve protects the monk seal.

You’ll hear about conservation efforts and also about endemic species in the area. That’s a big deal for a destination like this, because Madeira’s offshore reserves are specialized habitats. The guide’s job is to help you understand what you’re seeing and why visitor behavior matters.

One reality check: not every animal will show up during your visit. People can be disappointed expecting to see monk seals on the beach, but the conservation angle is the core experience. If your main goal is guaranteed animal viewing, you should temper expectations and focus on learning and respectful access instead.

If you’re someone who likes quieter, smaller-group explanations, be aware that the walk can feel crowded at times. When groups are bigger, it can be harder to hear details from every spot on the path.

Water time on clear seas: swimming, snorkeling, and stand-up paddleboarding

The best part of a warm day on Madeira is getting your body in the water, and this trip makes that easy. You get a swim break on arrival from the volcanic beach setting, and the day keeps building with snorkeling and stand-up paddleboarding options while you’re out there.

Snorkeling quality depends on conditions, but the setting is promising: you’re in a protected reserve with clear water when weather plays nice. I also like stand-up paddleboarding here because it turns the water into the activity, not just a backdrop. Even if you only try it once, it’s a different way to experience the sea around the island.

Tips that genuinely help:

• Bring a towel and a change of clothes, because sea spray and wet steps add up fast
• Sunscreen is a must, and I recommend putting it on before you’re out on the water
• If you’ll snorkel, make sure your footwear doesn’t become a problem when the tender and rocks come into play

Lunch onboard with drinks: fueling a 9-hour day (and managing diet needs)

You’re out for about 9 hours, and the day moves from sailing to island time to water activities. That’s why included lunch matters. You don’t have to hunt for food on a timetable. You eat onboard with drinks included as part of the package.

Food tends to be well received, including vegetarian choices reported by some passengers. One person did note a vegetarian request wasn’t provided as expected, so I’d treat that as a reminder to confirm dietary needs clearly at booking rather than assuming it’s automatic.

The onboard setup is practical: you’re not stuck with just one snack and hope for the best. The bar area also sells snacks and beverages, so you can top up if you get hungry between activities.

One small comfort issue I’d flag: seating on the catamaran can be stiff for some people. If you’re picky about comfort, consider bringing a small cushion or wearing layers you can adjust in the wind.

Price and value: what you’re paying for beyond the cruise

At $106 per person for a full day, you’re paying for more than time on the water. You’re paying for:

• access to a protected reserve visit by sea
• disembarkation at Deserta Grande only
• a guided walk tied to conservation education
• lunch plus drinks
• structured water breaks, including snorkeling and paddleboarding options

That mix is what makes the day feel like good value. A standard island cruise can give you a view and a quick stop. This one turns the visit into a full, guided experience with time to swim and interact with the marine environment.

Two trade-offs to weigh:

• there’s no promise of monk-seal sightings, since protection is the point
• getting onto the island can involve a tricky tender/rock step, so plan footwear and balance

If you want a day where “seeing” and “doing” both matter, the price makes sense. If you want a relaxed, easy-access beach day with no transfers and no learning component, this may feel a bit more active than you expect.

Who this trip is best for (and who should rethink it)

This catamaran trip suits you if you like:

• a nature reserve experience that includes guided conservation learning
• clear-water time and active options like snorkeling and paddleboarding
• the chance of marine wildlife sightings on the open sea

It’s less ideal if you:

• need easy mobility access, since the tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments
• prefer very relaxed, seated sightseeing with minimal movement
• expect guaranteed monk-seal sightings

If you’re traveling with friends who all want different activities, this works well. Some people focus on snorkeling or paddleboarding. Others enjoy the guided walk and then unwind after.

Should you book the Desertas Islands full-day catamaran trip?

I’d book it if your ideal Madeira day includes a real protected-area visit plus serious water time. The best version of this tour is when wind and sea conditions line up, you get that clear-water swim, and the wildlife hunt (even if it’s just dolphins) adds excitement.

I’d think twice if you’re purely chasing guaranteed animal sightings—especially monk seals. This trip is designed around conservation and respectful access, so the learning and habitat context are the payoff.

If you go prepared—windbreaker, sunscreen, swim shoes, towel, and a change of clothes—you’ll have a genuinely memorable day in a place that feels wild, remote, and well cared for.

FAQ

How long is the Desertas Islands full-day catamaran trip from Funchal?

The trip lasts 9 hours.

Where do I meet the guide?

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

Is hotel pick-up and drop-off included?

No. Hotel pick-up and drop-off are not included.

What’s included once you reach Desertas Islands?

You’ll have time to visit Desertas Islands, enjoy lunch, take part in a guided walk, go for a swim, and do snorkeling and stand-up paddleboarding. You’ll also have scenic views while on the boat.

Is lunch included, and can you handle dietary needs?

Lunch with drinks is included. Dietary requirements are reported as being catered for, including vegetarian and vegan options in some cases, but it’s smart to specify your needs when booking.

What should I bring for the day?

Bring comfortable shoes, a windbreaker, a change of clothes, a towel, and sunscreen. If you’re going in the summer, you’ll likely want swimwear too.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility impairments?

No. The tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments.