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.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
8 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for those able to comfortably walk on uneven terrain and swim in open water
Wildlife
History
Porto Santo was discovered in 1418, earlier than Madeira itself, with links to Portuguese navigator João Gonçalves Zarco.
Conservation
The area’s protected marine zones help safeguard underwater habitats, emphasizing sustainable tourism practices by Sea La Vie Madeira.
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.
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.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
Protect the sensitive marine environment by using sunscreen that won’t harm coral and sea life during snorkeling.
Wear sturdy shoes for Jeep tour
Opt for closed-toe shoes with good grip to navigate rocky trails and uneven terrain comfortably on the island tour.
Stay hydrated onboard and ashore
Carry water or request drinks included with the trip to stay refreshed throughout the cruise and island excursions.
Pack a dry bag
Keep your phone, camera, and valuables dry during snorkeling and boat cruising with a handy dry bag.
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects skin from intense sun exposure while preserving marine ecosystems.
summer
Closed-toe hiking shoes
Provides support and traction during the Jeep island tour on varied terrain.
Swimsuit with rashguard
Comfortable for extended swimming and snorkeling sessions in clear waters.
summer
Dry bag
Keeps valuables safe from water exposure during cruise and water activities.