Set sail from Funchal to the volcanic Desertas Islands with Sea La Vie Madeira. Snorkel crystal waters, spot elusive monk seals, and soak in rugged coastal beauty on this intimate eight-hour journey.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
8 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have average fitness to comfortably snorkel and handle movement on a sailing vessel.
Wildlife
History
The Desertas Islands have been protected as a nature reserve since 1990, safeguarding crucial habitats for marine and bird life.
Conservation
Sea La Vie Madeira emphasizes low-impact trips, adhering to strict environmental guidelines to preserve the fragile island ecosystem.
Sea La Vie Madeira
Set sail from Funchal to the volcanic Desertas Islands with Sea La Vie Madeira. Snorkel crystal waters, spot elusive monk seals, and soak in rugged coastal beauty on this intimate eight-hour journey.
Sea La Vie Madeira is a Funchal-based charter operator offering private sailing and Vandutch 40 experiences along Madeira’s south coast and nearby islands.
Operating from Funchal, Madeira, Sea La Vie Madeira provides private charters across a range of durations and itineraries, from 3-hour coastal cruises and sunset sails to 8-hour full-day trips and a multi-day Porto Santo voyage.
The fleet includes sailing boats and Vandutch 40 vessels that host a variety of group sizes: several sailing boat charters accommodate up to 12 guests, Vandutch 40 experiences typically accommodate up to 10–12 people, and the Porto Santo luxury sailboat is arranged for smaller groups of up to 6.
Common activities across trips are snorkeling in clear Atlantic waters, guided swims, exploring marine caves, and enjoying on-board snacks and drinks. Signature itineraries include Desertas Islands excursions, Ponta de São Lourenço sails, Garajau nature reserve tours with lunch on the beach, and dedicated Porto Santo multi-day voyages.
Bookings are private by design and offer flexible itineraries tailored to group composition and desired duration. Sea La Vie Madeira lists options suited to families, groups of friends, and romantic outings, serving visitors who seek personalized marine experiences off the coast of Madeira and on nearby islands.
Reservations are available year-round, with availability depending on seasonal weather.
Tours Offered
12
Private charters and island trips
Max Group Size
Up to 12
Most trips accommodate small groups
Duration Range
3–72 hrs
From 3-hour cruises to 3-day sails
Home Port
Funchal, Madeira
Operating from Funchal harbor
Select duration, itinerary, and group size — book a private charter from Funchal for snorkeling, island visits, or a sunset cruise.
Book in advance for small group spots
Limited to eight guests, early booking ensures your place on this exclusive sailing trip.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
Protect both your skin and the marine environment by using eco-friendly sunscreen during snorkeling.
Wear water shoes
Rocky shores and boat decks can be slippery; water shoes improve safety and comfort on board and in the water.
Prepare for seasickness
Open ocean conditions may be choppy; consider medication or remedies if you’re prone to motion sickness.
Snorkel mask and fins
Enhance your underwater experience and comfort while swimming among marine life.
summer
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protect skin from UV rays without harming the delicate ocean ecosystem.
summer
Light windbreaker
Shield yourself from ocean breezes while on deck during cooler or windier conditions.
spring
Non-slip water shoes
Keep steady on wet boat surfaces and rocky shorelines when embarking on snorkeling stops.