From Funchal: Guided Tour to Desertas Islands

Traveling through Madeira, exploring the Desertas Islands via a guided boat trip sounds like a perfect way to see untouched nature, spot wildlife, and enjoy some time on the water. However, reviews suggest the experience can be hit or miss, making it essential to understand what you’re signing up for.

What’s appealing? We love the promise of stunning coastline views, the chance to see dolphins and whales, and the opportunity to swim in crystal-clear waters. The inclusion of a hot meal on board is also a nice touch, adding to the overall value. But it’s worth noting that some travelers have found the organization and communication lacking, with cancellations and delays affecting their day.

This tour could suit travelers who are flexible, love wildlife, and want a laid-back day at sea. If you’re after perfectly smooth sailing with flawless service, it might be wise to explore other options or read recent reviews closely.

Good To Know

• Wildlife Focus: Excellent for dolphin, whale, and seabird sightings.
• Authentic Experience: Guided tour with a focus on untouched landscapes.
• Food & Comfort: Onboard hot meal included, but reviews mention inconsistent service.
• Weather Dependence: Cancellations due to weather are possible, so check forecasts.
• Travel Logistics: Pickup from multiple Funchal locations, but some reviews report pickup issues.
• Price Point: At $141 per person, it offers a comprehensive day but consider whether the reviews reflect good value for you.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview of the Experience

The tour promises a full 10-hour adventure starting with hotel pickup in Funchal, followed by a roughly 30-minute bus ride to the departure point. From there, it’s all about setting sail along the coast to reach the Desertas Islands, a protected natural reserve home to rare monk seals and seabird colonies.

The highlight is the boat cruise itself, where you’ll get sweeping views of Madeira’s rugged coastline, and the chance to spot marine life like dolphins and whales—something many wildlife enthusiasts find exciting. The option to swim and snorkel at Doca Bay adds a refreshing element that can make this trip memorable for water lovers.

A guided tour of the islands is included, offering insights into their natural significance and history. Afterwards, a hot meal served onboard provides a relaxing break before heading back to Funchal, with possible scenic views on the return journey.

What to Expect on the Day

Pickup & Transfer

With 42 pickup locations across Funchal, the logistical side should be manageable. However, recent reviews reveal that some guests faced significant issues, including late pickups and even no-shows. One traveler from Germany mentioned being picked up half an hour late after a call, which hints that delays can happen. It’s wise to confirm your pickup time well in advance.

The Boat Cruise

Once on board, you’ll cruise along the coast, with the chance to snap photos of Madeira’s cliffs and untouched islands. The boat is likely a standard tour vessel, designed for sightseeing and wildlife watching. Keep your camera ready because the scenery is spectacular, especially in good weather.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Wildlife & Water Activities

The tour emphasizes dolphin and whale spotting, and several reviews highlight the excitement of seeing these creatures in their natural habitat. You might also see seabirds soaring overhead or resting on the islands—an authentic touch for nature lovers. The swim and snorkel stop in Doca Bay is a key feature, and the crystal-clear waters promise a refreshing break.

Island Exploration & Lunch

A guided tour ashore is part of the plan, where your guide will share information about the islands’ ecological importance. The onboard hot meal—typically chicken—may not sound gourmet, but it’s a convenient way to rest after a morning at sea. Some guests have noted the food service as a highlight, while others mention it as just okay.

Return & Drop-off

The return trip includes scenic views and, hopefully, wildlife sightings. The trip concludes back at the original pickup points, with some reviews suggesting that the organization of the return could be better.

The Realities: Pros & Cons

Pros

Stunning Coastal Views: The coastline around Madeira and the Desertas Islands is dramatic and photogenic. Travelers often enjoy the chance to photograph unspoiled landscapes from the boat.

Wildlife Watching: The possibility of spotting dolphins, whales, and seabirds makes this trip particularly appealing. Several reviews mention seeing dolphins close to the boat, which can be a real highlight.

Water Activities: Swimming and snorkeling in Doca Bay offer a fun way to cool off and experience the waters of Madeira firsthand.

Inclusive Meals: The onboard hot meal, typically consisting of chicken, provides a simple but welcome meal after a morning at sea.

Cons

Organizational Issues: Multiple reviews point out issues like missed pickups, late arrivals, or cancellations. One reviewer expressed frustration about being picked up late and then being informed the trip was canceled due to weather—despite reports of good weather at the destination.

Weather Dependency: The tour is susceptible to weather conditions, and cancellations seem common, which could disappoint travelers expecting a full day.

Value for Money: At $141, the experience isn’t cheap, and some guests felt the organization and service didn’t match the price—particularly if your trip is cut short or canceled.

Limited Communication: Some reviews mention a lack of clear information and unhelpful staff, which can add stress if you’re relying on timely updates.

The Detailed Itinerary Breakdown

Morning Pickup & Transfer

Starting the day with hotel pickup is convenient if it runs smoothly. Given that the tour includes a bus transfer of about 30 minutes, you can relax knowing you’re being taken directly to the departure point. However, recent reports of pickups being late or missed mean it’s worthwhile to confirm your collection time the day before.

Departure & Coastline Cruise

Once on board, you’ll leave Funchal’s port and head southeast toward the Desertas Islands, about 15 miles away. The boat ride itself is a scenic journey, with many finding the views of the coast and sea quite spectacular. You might be lucky enough to see dolphins playing alongside the boat early in the cruise—something several reviews highlight as a highlight.

Wildlife & Snorkel Stop at Doca Bay

The boat anchors in Doca Bay, where you get to swim or snorkel in crystal-clear waters. Several travelers mention the water as being refreshingly clear, ideal for underwater photos. Wildlife watching is a major part of the trip, with frequent sightings of dolphins and occasional whale reports. You’ll be keeping your eyes skyward and waterward, hoping for those unforgettable moments.

Shore Visit & Guided Tour of the Islands

A key part of the experience is the guided tour ashore, offering insight into the islands’ ecological importance and history. Since these islands are uninhabited and part of a protected reserve, your guide can share interesting details about their role as a sanctuary for monk seals and seabirds.

Lunch & Return Journey

Back on the boat, a hot meal—usually chicken—is served. It’s a straightforward offering but adds to the relaxed, communal atmosphere onboard. After lunch, the boat makes its way back to Funchal, with scenic views and hopefully more wildlife sightings. Some guests have commented that the return trip offers great photo opportunities, especially if the weather remains clear.

Disembarkation & Hotel Drop-Offs

The journey ends with drop-offs at the same locations from which you were picked up. Given the reports of organizational issues, it’s best to stay attentive to instructions and stay flexible with timing.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This trip is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts eager to see dolphins and seabirds in their natural environment. Water lovers will appreciate the opportunity to swim and snorkel in pristine waters. It’s also suitable for those who enjoy scenic boat rides and are comfortable with some unpredictability due to weather or organization issues.

If you’re looking for a relaxing, nature-focused day, and are willing to accept some flaws in execution, this tour offers a genuine chance to connect with Madeira’s wild side.

However, if you prioritize punctuality, seamless organization, or gourmet food, you might find other options more satisfying. Always check recent reviews before booking, especially given reports of cancellations and logistical hiccups.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickup from over 40 designated locations in Funchal is included, but some reviews have reported delays or no-shows. Confirm your pickup time the day before.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, sunscreen, and water to stay comfortable and prepared for water activities and sun exposure.

Can I swim or snorkel during the trip?
Yes, you’ll have the chance to swim and snorkel at Doca Bay, with crystal-clear waters ideal for underwater viewing.

What is the lunch like?
A hot meal, typically chicken, is served onboard, offering a convenient and filling option after some water fun.

Is wildlife watching guaranteed?
Wildlife sightings depend on the day’s conditions, but many reviewers have seen dolphins and whales, making it a highlight for ocean lovers.

What if the weather is bad?
Cancellations due to weather are possible. Some guests report cancellations even when weather seems good, so check forecasts and stay flexible.

How long is the boat cruise?
The entire experience lasts around 10 hours, including transfer times, with the cruise itself being a major part of the day.

Is the experience suitable for children or older travelers?
Yes, the tour is generally accessible and suitable for various ages, but be aware of potential delays or cancellations that could impact your plans.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a genuine chance to explore Madeira’s wild coastline and see its marine life in action. The opportunity to swim, snorkel, and spot dolphins makes it a fun and active day out—if the logistics cooperate.

The reported organizational issues and cancellations are worth considering, especially if you’re traveling during unpredictable weather seasons or have tight schedules. The scenic views and wildlife encounters, however, are often praised and can be memorable highlights if everything falls into place.

Ultimately, this experience suits travelers who are flexible, wildlife-minded, and looking for a laid-back day on the water. It can be a rewarding adventure, but it’s best approached with an open mind and a little patience.

Whether you end up loving the panoramic views and marine sightings or find yourself disappointed by organizational hiccups, this trip still promises a glance at Madeira’s less-touched natural side.

You can check if your dates are available here: