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.
Book with VMT Madeira Catamaran
Book directly with VMT Madeira Catamaran for the best rates and real-time scheduling.
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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.
moderate.
9 hours.
Moderate fitness recommended: you'll be on a moving vessel for hours and participate in short swims and paddle sessions.
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.
The Desertas saw limited human use historically—occasional grazing and sealing—before being designated a nature reserve to protect its fragile ecosystems.
The archipelago is a protected reserve; visitors must follow strict guidelines to minimize disturbance—no feeding wildlife, no littering, and restricted landing zones.
VMT Madeira Catamaran operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.
Book with VMT Madeira Catamaran
Book directly with VMT Madeira Catamaran for the best rates and real-time scheduling.
Reserve Now