THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Spend a full day from Funchal exploring the protected Desertas Islands by catamaran: swim and snorkel in clear water, try stand-up paddle, and watch for rare monk seals and seabirds. This nine-hour outing mixes wildlife viewing with active water time and a Madeiran lunch aboard.
Spend a full day from Funchal exploring the protected Desertas Islands by catamaran: swim and snorkel in clear water, try stand-up paddle, and watch for rare monk seals and seabirds. This nine-hour outing mixes wildlife viewing with active water time and a Madeiran lunch aboard.
You push off from Funchal Marina as the city shrinks behind you and the Atlantic opens, a wide blue that dares you to look farther. The catamaran slices towards a trio of rocky spines—Deserta Grande and its satellite islets—where wind-carved cliffs drop into crystalline water and a small, clean beach waits almost untouched.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by VMT Madeira Catamaran · Funchal, Madeira
You push off from Funchal Marina as the city shrinks behind you and the Atlantic opens, a wide blue that dares you to look farther. The catamaran slices towards a trio of rocky spines—Deserta Grande and its satellite islets—where wind-carved cliffs drop into crystalline water and a small, clean beach waits almost untouched.
Geology here is raw: volcanic ridges formed by ancient eruptions, sculpted by sea and salt into sheer faces and talus slopes. Historically the Desertas were sparsely used for grazing and hunting; today they’re a protected reserve whose isolation has kept rare species—most notably the Mediterranean monk seal—safe. The island’s human story is short and austere, giving the landscape a strong natural voice.
Onboard, expect a pragmatic day: roughly nine hours including sea passages, a Madeiran buffet lunch, guided stops for snorkeling and stand-up paddle, and a short guided walk if landing is permitted. Water is clear and cool; currents can pick up around the islets, so guides regulate swim windows. Photography rewards those who scan both ocean and cliff ledges for seabirds and seals.
Practical tips: bring reef shoes and a wetsuit top if you get cold, use reef-safe sunscreen, and time the trip in calmer months for gentler crossings. Mobility at the landing can be uneven—the beach is pebbly and access may be by dinghy. Respect the reserve: keep distance from wildlife, follow the crew’s guidance, and carry out any waste. This cruise is a high-reward day on the sea—part wildlife watch, part active snorkeling and paddling—best suited to travelers comfortable with moderate boat time and basic swimming skills.
The excursion is roughly nine hours; typically it includes guided stops at the Desertas, a Madeiran buffet lunch aboard, snorkeling and stand-up paddle equipment, and live commentary.
Landings depend on conservation rules and sea conditions; the tour often allows a short guided walk onto a designated beach area but access can be limited to protect wildlife.
Children can join but must be supervised; non-swimmers can still enjoy the boat, but participation in snorkeling or paddle activities requires basic swimming ability and flotation provided.
Tours are cancelled for bad weather or insufficient travelers; with standard policy you can get a full refund if cancelled at least 24 hours before departure or if the operator cancels due to conditions.
VMT Madeira Catamaran operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.
You push off from Funchal Marina as the city shrinks behind you and the Atlantic opens, a wide blue that dares you to look farther. The catamaran slices towards a trio of rocky spines—Deserta Grande and its satellite islets—where wind-carved cliffs drop into crystalline water and a small, clean beach waits almost untouched.
You push off from Funchal Marina as the city shrinks behind you and the Atlantic opens, a wide blue that dares you to look farther. The catamaran slices towards a trio of rocky spines—Deserta Grande and its satellite islets—where wind-carved cliffs drop into crystalline water and a small, clean beach waits almost untouched.
Geology here is raw: volcanic ridges formed by ancient eruptions, sculpted by sea and salt into sheer faces and talus slopes. Historically the Desertas were sparsely used for grazing and hunting; today they’re a protected reserve whose isolation has kept rare species—most notably the Mediterranean monk seal—safe. The island’s human story is short and austere, giving the landscape a strong natural voice.
Onboard, expect a pragmatic day: roughly nine hours including sea passages, a Madeiran buffet lunch, guided stops for snorkeling and stand-up paddle, and a short guided walk if landing is permitted. Water is clear and cool; currents can pick up around the islets, so guides regulate swim windows. Photography rewards those who scan both ocean and cliff ledges for seabirds and seals.
Practical tips: bring reef shoes and a wetsuit top if you get cold, use reef-safe sunscreen, and time the trip in calmer months for gentler crossings. Mobility at the landing can be uneven—the beach is pebbly and access may be by dinghy. Respect the reserve: keep distance from wildlife, follow the crew’s guidance, and carry out any waste. This cruise is a high-reward day on the sea—part wildlife watch, part active snorkeling and paddling—best suited to travelers comfortable with moderate boat time and basic swimming skills.