Cruise from Funchal to Porto Santo on a private Vandutch 40, then hit the island’s best beach and snorkel in a UNESCO biosphere reserve with Sea La Vie Madeira.
Cruise from Funchal to Porto Santo on a private Vandutch 40, then hit the island’s best beach and snorkel in a UNESCO biosphere reserve with Sea La Vie Madeira.
Book with Sea La Vie Madeira
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Sea La Vie Madeira · Funchal, Madeira
Set sail from Funchal aboard the sleek Vandutch 40 for a dynamic 3-hour cruise cutting across the Atlantic to Porto Santo, Madeira’s tranquil neighbor island. Owned and operated by Sea La Vie Madeira, this private day trip delivers more than just coastal views—it immerses guests in a blend of maritime freedom and rugged island exploration that defines this part of Portugal’s Madeira archipelago.
Porto Santo is renowned for its sprawling sandy beaches, including what the European Union has designated as the continent’s best beach. Upon arrival, a private Jeep tour takes you through the island’s varied landscapes — volcanic rock formations, untamed hills, and pockets of endemic flora that thrive in this biosphere reserve. The UNESCO-protected marine reserve surrounding Porto Santo is exceptional for swimming and snorkeling, offering crystal-clear waters teeming with native fish and subaquatic caves.
Sea La Vie Madeira’s trip stands out for its seamless blend of sea and land adventure. The initial boat ride offers panoramic views of Funchal’s coastline and the Atlantic’s wide expanse, while the Jeep tour delivers an intimate encounter with Porto Santo’s distinctive terrain. The trip also includes stops ideal for swimming and snorkeling in protected waters, making it accessible to families and friends looking for both relaxation and adrenaline.
This experience is a notable entry in Madeira’s outdoor recreation landscape for combining luxury cruising with hands-on exploration of a relatively lesser-known, yet captivating, island. Sea La Vie Madeira’s local expertise and commitment to sustainable tourism further enrich the journey, ensuring visitors experience the raw beauty of the Madeira archipelago without compromising its natural integrity.
Whether you’re drawn by the pristine beaches, the thrill of snorkeling in a UNESCO biosphere, or the appeal of a custom Jeep safari, this trip answers the call for an unforgettable day on the water and beyond.
moderate.
8 hours.
Suitable for those able to comfortably walk on uneven terrain and swim in open water
Yes, all snorkeling equipment is included in the trip package.
The trip is family-friendly and suitable for children, with a maximum of 10 participants.
Lunch at the beach club is not included and is available to purchase on location.
Please contact Sea La Vie Madeira directly for detailed cancellation terms.
Wetsuits can be requested upon booking for added comfort during cooler seasons.
The cruise departs from Funchal’s main marina, accessible by taxi or local transport.
Porto Santo was discovered in 1418, earlier than Madeira itself, with links to Portuguese navigator João Gonçalves Zarco.
The area’s protected marine zones help safeguard underwater habitats, emphasizing sustainable tourism practices by Sea La Vie Madeira.
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.
Book with Sea La Vie Madeira