The Desertas Islands feel remote, even from Madeira. This full-day catamaran trip brings you to a protected volcanic world and backs it up with a guided visit to the monk seal conservation area. I especially like the mix of wildlife sightings at sea and the chance to get in the water on Deserta Grande. One thing to keep in mind: landing and getting back in can be tricky because you’re stepping on a rocky, slippery beach area.

You’ll also enjoy the guided walk on the island itself, where you’re not just looking at scenery. You get to learn how the reserve protects the monk seals and also hear about endemic flora and fauna. Lunch is included with drinks, and it’s a solid break after hours on the water. If you’re hoping to spot monk seals on cue, don’t count on it every time.

Key takeaway for your planning: bring the right footwear and expect wind. The cold breeze is real on the catamaran, and some bench-style seating can feel hard on a long 9-hour day.

Key things I’d prioritize

• Deserta Grande only for landing: you visit the reserve by sea, with disembarking on the main visitor island.
• Monk seal conservation, explained: a guided walk connects what you see to the protection work.
• Water time is built in: swimming, snorkeling, and even stand up paddleboarding are part of the day.
• Wildlife can show up en route: dolphins and whales have been spotted on sailings.
• Plan for wet/rocky logistics: beach access can be tough without water shoes.

Desertas Islands: a protected volcanic world near Madeira

The Desertas Islands Natural Reserve covers a huge marine-and-island area (12,586 hectares). It includes the islands and islets like Ilhéu Chão, Deserta Grande, Bugio, plus surrounding waters, and it has been a nature reserve for over 25 years.

What makes this trip special is that it’s not only about the view from the boat. You’re visiting a place that’s managed with a clear goal: protecting the monk seal. That theme carries through the day, especially once you reach Deserta Grande and join the guided walk.

The volcanic formations are dramatic. From the water, you see how the island’s geology shapes everything—where boats can approach, where the beach is, and why the area needs protection from heavy human impact.

Meeting the boat crew in Funchal Marina (no hotel pickup)

You meet your guide at the VMT Madeira Kiosk at the Funchal Marina. There’s no hotel pick-up, so you’ll want to build in time to get yourself there calmly.

This matters more than it sounds. A day like this runs on boat timing, and being early helps you settle in before the safety briefing and departure. If you’re the kind of traveler who likes to find your bearings, arriving a bit ahead is worth it.

Also, plan to travel light. Luggage or large bags aren’t allowed, so keep only what you need for the water and the guided portion on the island. That’s one of the reasons people pack a small day kit and change clothes later.

The sailing along Madeira’s south coast: wildlife plus real sea time

Once you’re aboard, the day starts with sailing along Madeira’s south coast. You’ll get scenic views on the way, plus time to relax on the catamaran as you head toward the reserve.

A highlight from multiple trips is wildlife sighting. Expect the possibility of dolphins and whales along the route—people have reported pilot whales, killer whales, and bottle-nosed dolphins. Nobody can promise it, but the odds seem good enough that you should scan the water and stay alert during the sail.

You’ll also have practical onboard comforts. The catamaran is equipped with a toilet, and there’s a bar with snacks and beverages. That means you can handle the long day without feeling like you’re stuck waiting for the next stop.

Deserta Grande landing: the volcanic beach and why footwear matters

Here’s the key logistical detail: this reserve can be visited by sea, and Deserta Grande is the only island where you disembark. Once you arrive, you go from the catamaran to the island via a tender, and you’ll step onto volcanic-origin beach water.

This is where packing can make or break your day. More than one person noted that getting out of the tender can be difficult because the stones can be slippery. My advice is simple: bring water shoes or something with grip that you don’t mind getting sandy.

Crocs can work for some people, and beach shoes are ideal. Flip-flops often fail when rocks are involved, especially if you need to walk a short distance carefully while wet. If you’re prone to slipping, treat this as a must-plan item.

The payoff is immediate once you’re on shore. The water is described as clear, and you get that true “island in the wild” feeling—less tourist bustle, more protected nature.

The guided monk seal walk: what you learn on the island

After landing, you’ll join a guided walk to a conservation center on Deserta Grande. The focus is monk seal protection, and it also includes background on endemic flora and fauna—species tied to Madeira and the islands.

This portion is valuable because it gives context. When you understand what the reserve protects, the whole trip changes from sightseeing into participation in a conservation story. You’re seeing the reserve at a safe distance, and you’re learning how rules and human behavior help keep the ecosystem intact.

One fair expectation check: you might not see monk seals during the visit. The walk is about education and protection work, not a guaranteed wildlife encounter. If you’re someone who counts on a checklist moment, shift your mindset toward learning and overall conservation awareness instead.

Lunch on board, then swimming and snorkeling on your terms

Lunch with drinks is included. On many days, this is served as a practical onboard break that keeps you fueled for the active parts of the itinerary.

A nice benefit from the way lunch is handled: dietary requirements have been accommodated, including vegetarian and even vegan options reported by guests. If you have food needs, treat it as a real planning point and communicate them before or during the booking flow when possible.

Once you’re fed, the day leans into water activities. You’ll have time for swimming in the clear waters off the island, plus snorkeling. Stand up paddleboarding is also part of the day, which many people seem to enjoy because it’s a different way to experience the surrounding marine area.

If you want a smooth day, treat this as a “choose-your-feel” block. Don’t overbook yourself in your head. Do one or two main water activities well, then leave room for relaxing and watching the water clarity and movement.

Weather, wind, and comfort on a 9-hour catamaran day

Even when the island is warm, you can feel the difference once you’re out at sea. Pack for wind first. Guests specifically recommend a windbreaker, and a common theme is that the breeze can feel cold even when you don’t expect it.

This is one of those trips where summer comfort is real, but sea-weather is its own thing. Bring a layer you can actually put on quickly without a wrestling match, and plan your swim timing so you’re not cold and rushed.

Clothes planning matters too. Bring a change of clothes, a towel, and sunscreen. People also recommended swimming suits and sun cream, then thinking ahead about how quickly you’ll dry off between activities.

On comfort: the catamaran seating is often described as bench-style and hard. That doesn’t ruin the trip, but if you’re sensitive to seating, you’ll want to manage expectations for long stretches of sailing.

Price and value: what $106 buys you (and what it doesn’t)

At about $106 per person for a 9-hour full-day experience, you’re paying for a few concrete things: a catamaran cruise, access to the reserve by sea (including landing on Deserta Grande), guided explanation on the island, and lunch with drinks.

You’re also getting multiple water activities (swim, snorkeling, and stand up paddleboarding). That’s a big value factor because you’d otherwise spend time and money piecing together those experiences separately.

The tradeoffs are real but manageable. There’s no hotel pick-up, so you handle getting to the marina. And monk seal viewing isn’t guaranteed—you’re visiting a conservation area, not a zoo-style viewing spot. If those two points are okay with your expectations, the price feels fair for what you get: a full day in a protected, volcanic setting with guided context and real time in the water.

Who should book this trip, and who should skip it

This is a great fit if you want a natural reserve experience without doing it solo. You’ll get structure (safety briefing, guided walk, onboard timing) but also enough freedom during the water time to enjoy the sea.

It’s also a good match for people who like wildlife at sea. If you enjoy scanning for movement and watching for dolphins or whales, you’ll likely have fun with the journey itself, not only the destination.

If you have mobility impairments, note that the trip isn’t suitable. Getting in and out can be tricky, especially with tender transfers and rocky steps.

Finally, remember the rules of the day. Alcohol and drugs aren’t allowed, and the operator reserves the right to refuse service if someone appears intoxicated. That’s partly about safety and partly about keeping the environment and experience respectful.

Should you book the Desertas Islands Full-Day Catamaran Trip?

I’d book it if you want a day where the “why” matters as much as the “what.” The combination of guided monk seal conservation learning, volcanic island access, and actual water time makes it more than a simple sightseeing cruise.

Do it with a little prep. Bring water shoes for rocky landing, pack a windbreaker for sea breezes, and plan for a long day on a catamaran with firmer seating. Also, go in with the right mindset about monk seals: expect education and conservation focus, not guaranteed sightings.

If you can handle tender transfers and like active-but-not-intense water activities, this is one of the more memorable ways to experience Madeira’s protected island world.

FAQ

How long is the Desertas Islands full-day catamaran trip from Funchal?

The duration is 9 hours.

Where do I meet the tour guide in Funchal?

Meet your guide at the VMT Madeira Kiosk at the Funchal Marina.

What’s included in the price?

The trip includes the catamaran cruise and lunch with drinks.

Do I need hotel pick-up?

No. Hotel pick-up and drop-off are not included.

What activities are available once you reach the islands?

On Deserta Grande, you’ll have time for a guided walk, swimming, snorkeling, and stand up paddleboarding.

Will I definitely see monk seals?

The tour focuses on monk seal conservation efforts and includes a guided visit to learn about protection work, but seeing monk seals is not guaranteed based on the information provided.

What should I bring for the day?

Bring comfortable shoes, a windbreaker, change of clothes, a towel, and sunscreen. During warmer months, swimwear is also helpful.

What footwear should I use for getting on and off the beach?

Footwear with grip is important. The volcanic beach/steps can be slippery, so bring shoes you don’t mind getting wet.

Are there any restrictions on what I can bring?

Luggage or large bags aren’t allowed.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility impairments?

No. The tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments.

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