Madeira’s Desertas Islands feel remote, fast. You’ll cruise the south coast, then step onto a volcanic beach inside a protected marine reserve. The day blends big scenery, hands-on nature learning, and time in crystal-clear water.

I love the real purpose behind the stop, the monk seal conservation work you’ll learn about on Deserta Grande. I also love the mix of ocean time and on-island walking, plus the chance to swim, snorkel, and even try stand up paddleboarding.

One consideration: the day involves boat and tender transfers plus slippery steps at the landing. If you’re not comfortable getting in and out of the water, you’ll want to think twice.

Key highlights worth your attention

• Desertas Islands Nature Reserve by sea, including Ilhéu Chão, Deserta Grande, Bugio, and surrounding waters
• A guided walk on Deserta Grande to a conservation center focused on monk seal protection
• Volcanic beach swimming, with clear water that makes snorkel time easier
• Lunch included with drinks, served onboard during the day
• Wildlife sightings are a real possibility, including dolphins and whales on some days
• Bring windproof layers, because the catamaran breeze can feel colder than you expect

Why this Desertas catamaran day feels special

If you like your nature trips to feel more like field work than a photo stop, this one delivers. You sail in open water first, then reach a protected island where the focus is conservation and sea life, not check-the-box sightseeing.

The biggest win is how the day is structured around the reserve itself. You’re not just taking a boat ride. You’re entering a big marine protected area, learning why it matters, and then getting time to swim and snorkel in the waters they work to safeguard.

Sailing from Funchal to Desertas, with a chance at wild marine life

Your day starts at the VMT Madeira Kiosk at the Funchal Marina. From there, you’ll get a safety briefing and settle in for the sail along Madeira’s south coast. This is often where the day can already feel like a win, even before you land. The scenery is dramatic, and the ocean on this route has a way of making you pay attention.

A few passengers have reported spotting dolphins and even whales during the crossing, on both the way out and back. It’s not something you should count on every single day, but it is a genuine possibility when conditions are right.

This sailing portion matters more than you might think. It sets expectations for how the day will feel. You’ll be moving, out in the wind, and ready for a long stretch of nature viewing. If you come in expecting a gentle stroll with no ocean time, the catamaran part might surprise you.

Desertas Islands Reserve: what you’re actually visiting

The Desertas Islands Nature Reserve covers 12,586 hectares. It includes the islands and islets of Ilhéu Chão, Deserta Grande, Bugio, and nearby islets, plus the surrounding marine environment. The reserve has been protected for more than 25 years, and it is internationally known for its work to protect the monk seal.

That conservation focus is not just a poster. On Deserta Grande, visitors get the chance to disembark and take part in a guided walk to the conservation center. This is where the day shifts from sightseeing to learning.

You’ll also hear about endemic flora and fauna, the plants and animals that belong to this specific region. Even if you never see a monk seal during your visit, the context helps you understand why the area is treated with care and restraint.

Landing on Deserta Grande, the volcanic beach reality check

Deserta Grande is the only island where visitors disembark. When you reach the island, you’ll go ashore in clear water onto a beach of volcanic origin. The setting is gorgeous, but here’s the honest part: the stones and steps around the landing can be slippery.

Bring footwear you don’t mind getting wet. Beach shoes or Crocs-style water-friendly footwear tend to work well. Flip-flops usually do not. And if you’ve got any balance issues, take your time at the transfer. The landing process is part of the adventure, but it’s also the moment where small mistakes can turn annoying fast.

Also plan for wind. Even in warm weather, the breeze coming off the sea can make you feel cooler on the boat. Many people end up wishing they had a windbreaker sooner.

The guided walk to the conservation center (and what you should expect)

Once on Deserta Grande, you’ll take a guided walk as part of the visit. The guide focuses on monk seal protection efforts and shares information about the local ecosystem, including endemic species.

A key point for expectations: this is not a free-form hike. The walk is guided and focused, and the route is structured around the conservation center and learning. That can be a disappointment if you were picturing a long trek across the island. But it also keeps the experience respectful and grounded in what the reserve actually needs from visitors.

If you’re the kind of traveler who likes hearing how conservation works in real life, this section is one of the best values of the whole day. It gives you a framework for the scenery and wildlife sightings, instead of treating them as luck.

Lunch onboard: simple, filling, and included with drinks

Lunch is served onboard, and it includes drinks. In real travel terms, that matters because it keeps you from spending time hunting for food once you’re on the island.

You can expect a buffet-style meal with plenty of choices. Vegetarian and vegan requests were mentioned as being catered for in some cases, so if you have dietary needs, it’s worth communicating them through the operator before the trip.

One practical note: long days like this make food quality feel extra important. When lunch is good and timing stays smooth, you feel more comfortable staying out in the sun after. That helps you enjoy the swimming and snorkeling blocks without rushing back hungry and grumpy.

Swimming, snorkeling, and stand up paddleboarding time

Once lunch and the island visit are done, you’ll get your water time. The day includes swimming and snorkeling opportunities, and stand up paddleboarding is also part of the activities listed.

This is where the Desertas experience earns its reputation. The water can be clear enough that snorkeling feels like a real view, not just a swim with borrowed goggles. Even if snorkeling isn’t your thing, the beach swim is often the most relaxing part of the day.

Bring a towel and swimwear, especially in warmer months. And bring a change of clothes for after, because you’ll likely get wet. The catamaran has a toilet onboard, which helps a lot on a 9-hour day.

If you want to paddleboard, aim to do it when you feel energized. It can be tiring in wind. But it’s a fun way to slow down and watch the shoreline and marine life from above the water.

Wildlife sightings: possible dolphins and whales, not guaranteed seals

One of the most exciting themes in feedback is wildlife. Many people have reported seeing dolphins, and some have been lucky enough to spot pilot whales or other whale groups while sailing.

What you should not assume is that you will see monk seals during your visit. The reserve is about protection and recovery, and conservation is not the same thing as a guaranteed sighting. Some guests felt the monk seal element was advertised more strongly than what they personally experienced that day.

This doesn’t make the tour less worthwhile. It just means you should treat the monk seal stop as education and conservation support, not as a wildlife safari with a guaranteed animal at the end.

Comfort on the catamaran: bring realistic expectations

The catamaran experience is fun, but it’s not a luxury lounge. Some reviews mention that the bench-style seating can feel hard. You might spend a lot of time on this boat, especially on the outbound and return segments, so comfort planning helps.

Wind is another comfort factor. A windbreaker is more useful than you think, even when the sun is out. The sea breeze can turn “nice and warm” into “why is my face cold.”

If you’re sensitive to discomfort or you hate long sits, consider wearing layers you can adjust. You’ll feel better if you stay warm while still being able to shed a layer once you’re in the sun.

Value for money: is $106 really fair for this day?

At about $106 per person for a 9-hour full-day catamaran trip, the value depends on how you like to spend your vacation.

You’re paying for a protected-area experience by sea, not just transportation. You also get lunch with drinks onboard, plus structured guided time on Deserta Grande and multiple water activities. That bundle reduces extra costs you’d normally pay separately, like boat transfers, guides, and day-meal logistics.

Is it expensive compared to a casual harbor cruise? Yes. But it’s also not just a sightseeing loop. You’re paying for a day inside a major nature reserve that has ongoing conservation work and limited access, with time on a volcanic beach and a full ocean day built in.

For me, the best value comes if you want the full combo: sailing, learning, swimming, and snorkeling without having to piece it together yourself.

Who should book this trip, and who should skip it

This tour is ideal if you want an active nature day that still feels organized. It suits couples, small friend groups, and solo travelers who like being outside, enjoy boats, and don’t mind a long day.

You should probably choose something else if you have mobility impairments. The landing and tender transfers can be tricky, and getting in and out of the water involves uneven surfaces.

Also skip if you dislike wind and long open-ocean stretches. People report that a warm layer and wind protection matter. If you’re the type who melts at the first breeze, this might feel like hard work instead of fun.

Practical packing list that actually helps

Bring comfortable shoes you can trust on wet, rocky surfaces. Pack a windbreaker, not just a light jacket. Bring a change of clothes, a towel, and sunscreen. If it’s summer, swimwear is a must, and you’ll feel happier if you can dry off quickly after swimming.

Optional but smart: water-friendly footwear for the landing. A lot of trouble can be avoided with the right shoes. And if you’re planning to be in the water for a while, consider bringing gear that keeps sand out of your comfort zone.

One more rule to keep in mind: the operator reserves the right to refuse service if someone is intoxicated. It’s a safety and comfort decision, not a vibe-killer.

Should you book the Desertas Islands full-day catamaran trip?

I’d book it if you want a conservation-minded day in a real protected marine area, with the payoff of volcanic beach water time and hands-on learning at the conservation center. The combination of sailing, guided walk, and included lunch with drinks makes it a clean day to plan, and many people leave happy because the day feels well organized.

I would reconsider if you need guaranteed monk seal sightings, if hard seating on boats will ruin your day, or if you are uncomfortable with getting in and out of the water on uneven, slippery landing surfaces. Also be honest about hiking expectations, because you’re not doing a long free hike on your own.

If you go in expecting a guided nature and sea day with possible wildlife on the horizon, this is a strong pick for Madeira. And if you come prepared for wind and wet steps, you’ll turn that day into one of your clearest memory makers.

FAQ

Where do I meet for the Desertas Islands catamaran trip?

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

How long is the trip?

The duration is 9 hours.

What’s included in the price?

The catamaran cruise and lunch with drinks are included.

What activities are available on the day?

The experience includes a visit to the islands, a guided walk, swimming, snorkeling, and stand up paddleboarding.

Can I bring my own lunch or snacks?

The provided information only states that lunch with drinks is included. It also notes the catamaran has a bar with snacks and beverages.

Is hotel pickup included?

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

Will I be able to see monk seals?

The reserve is known for monk seal conservation, and you’ll learn about protection efforts on Deserta Grande. However, monk seal sightings are not guaranteed based on the provided information.

What should I pack?

Bring comfortable shoes, a windbreaker, a change of clothes, a towel, and sunscreen. Swimwear is especially useful in summer.

Are there items I’m not allowed to bring?

Luggage or large bags are not allowed, and intoxication or alcohol and drugs are not allowed.

How does cancellation work if weather is bad?

There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers or in bad weather. If that happens, you’ll be offered an alternative or a full refund.

What languages is the tour guide available in?

The live tour guide is available in English and Portuguese.