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Desertas Islands

Desertas Islands
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Desertas Islands: Our most recommended tours and activities

Desertas Islands Full-Day Catamaran Trip from Funchal

Desertas Islands Full-Day Catamaran Trip from Funchal

On this full-day catamaran trip to the Desertas Islands, you’ll sail along the south coast of Madeira Island. On arrival, you’ll disembark in clear waters onto a beach of volcanic origin, where you’ll have a chance to enjoy a swim. Covering an area of 12,586 hectares the Natural Reserve of the Desertas Islands comprises all islands and islets (Ilhéu Chão, Deserta Grande, Bugio, and adjacent islets) and all of the surrounding marine area. It has been designated a nature reserve for over 25 years and is now internationally known for its monk seal conservation efforts. Today this protected area can be visited by sea. Deserta Grande is the only island where visitors can disembark, and you’ll enjoy a guided walk to the conservation center to learn about the monk seal protection efforts and also about endemic flora and fauna.

From Funchal : Wooden boat excursion to Desertas Island

From Funchal : Wooden boat excursion to Desertas Island

Embark on an exhilarating boat journey to the Desertas Islands, an experience that blends adventure and tranquility in a breathtaking setting. As you depart from the port, you'll be enveloped by the maritime atmosphere while sailing through the crystal-clear waters of the Atlantic. During the voyage, there are excellent chances to spot a fascinating array of marine life, from playful dolphins to majestic whales, providing moments of awe and fascination. As you approach the islands, you'll be greeted by the stunning coastal landscape, with its impressive cliffs. Upon docking, you'll have the opportunity to disembark and explore the untouched nature of the Desertas, immersing yourself in a natural trail and observing the unique fauna and flora of this protected natural reserve up close. During your free time on the island, you can go for a walk, swim, or return to the comfort of the boat. This boat trip to the Desertas Islands promises to be a truly memorable experience, brimming with adventure, natural beauty, and moments of pure contemplation. Get ready to create unforgettable memories as you explore this remote paradise in the middle of the Atlantic.

Madeira: Luxury Yacht & Sailing Sunset Tour

Madeira: Luxury Yacht & Sailing Sunset Tour

Sail the crystal-clear waters along the south coast of Madeira on this yacht tour from Funchal. Enjoy a unique and relaxing experience aboard our luxury yacht. Tour Highlights: Comfort on Deck: Relax on comfortable pillows and beanbags while soaking up the sun on the yacht's spacious deck. Welcome Drink: Start the tour with a welcome drink and refresh yourself with sparkling wine. Local Snacks: Enjoy a selection of local snacks prepared especially for the tour. Visiting Private Bays: Explore private bays that can only be accessed by boat, providing an exclusive experience. Swimming Stop: Stop to swim in turquoise waters, perfect for a refreshing swim. Memorable Photos: Capture stunning photos of the sea and landscape to share with friends and family. Magical Sunset Moment: Admire the sunset, the most magical moment of the day, especially on Madeira Island. The skies can transform into authentic works of art as the sun sets over the horizon, creating an unforgettable atmosphere. Come live this incredible experience and create lasting memories while sailing through the stunning waters of Madeira.

Levada dos Maroços - Half Day - Easy Walk

Levada dos Maroços - Half Day - Easy Walk

This trail begins in the Machico valley, in the southeast part of the island and consists of a flat trail of about 6.5 km, with an easy degree of difficulty. In this trail, also known as "Mimosas Valley" you can admire magnificent views over the Machico Valley (place where the Portuguese navigators first landed) and also the Desertas Islands. Along this trail you can observe agricultural fields, where vegetables and fruit are grown by the local population and appreciate some of the exotic flowers along the way.

Faro: Ria Formosa Islands

Faro: Ria Formosa Islands

Board a boat at the charming Doca de Faro for a 3-hour and 30-minute adventure through the tranquil waters of the Ria Formosa. Explore the stunning Ilha do Farol, the picturesque Ilha da Culatra, the historic Hangars, and the enchanting Deserta Island. Disembark at several points of interest to capture incredible photographs and venture out to discover the small fishing villages residing on these islands, which seem to have stopped in time. Every place you visit offers a unique glimpse into local life and the serenity of this natural paradise. Ideal for those who want to relax and enjoy the untouched beauty of the Ria Formosa, this tour is perfect for families, friends, and nature lovers. Come explore, relax, and create unforgettable memories in this idyllic setting.

Desertas Islands: Our most recommended tours and activities

Desertas Islands Full-Day Catamaran Trip from Funchal

Desertas Islands Full-Day Catamaran Trip from Funchal

On this full-day catamaran trip to the Desertas Islands, you’ll sail along the south coast of Madeira Island. On arrival, you’ll disembark in clear waters onto a beach of volcanic origin, where you’ll have a chance to enjoy a swim. Covering an area of 12,586 hectares the Natural Reserve of the Desertas Islands comprises all islands and islets (Ilhéu Chão, Deserta Grande, Bugio, and adjacent islets) and all of the surrounding marine area. It has been designated a nature reserve for over 25 years and is now internationally known for its monk seal conservation efforts. Today this protected area can be visited by sea. Deserta Grande is the only island where visitors can disembark, and you’ll enjoy a guided walk to the conservation center to learn about the monk seal protection efforts and also about endemic flora and fauna.

From Funchal : Wooden boat excursion to Desertas Island

From Funchal : Wooden boat excursion to Desertas Island

Embark on an exhilarating boat journey to the Desertas Islands, an experience that blends adventure and tranquility in a breathtaking setting. As you depart from the port, you'll be enveloped by the maritime atmosphere while sailing through the crystal-clear waters of the Atlantic. During the voyage, there are excellent chances to spot a fascinating array of marine life, from playful dolphins to majestic whales, providing moments of awe and fascination. As you approach the islands, you'll be greeted by the stunning coastal landscape, with its impressive cliffs. Upon docking, you'll have the opportunity to disembark and explore the untouched nature of the Desertas, immersing yourself in a natural trail and observing the unique fauna and flora of this protected natural reserve up close. During your free time on the island, you can go for a walk, swim, or return to the comfort of the boat. This boat trip to the Desertas Islands promises to be a truly memorable experience, brimming with adventure, natural beauty, and moments of pure contemplation. Get ready to create unforgettable memories as you explore this remote paradise in the middle of the Atlantic.

Madeira: Luxury Yacht & Sailing Sunset Tour

Madeira: Luxury Yacht & Sailing Sunset Tour

Sail the crystal-clear waters along the south coast of Madeira on this yacht tour from Funchal. Enjoy a unique and relaxing experience aboard our luxury yacht. Tour Highlights: Comfort on Deck: Relax on comfortable pillows and beanbags while soaking up the sun on the yacht's spacious deck. Welcome Drink: Start the tour with a welcome drink and refresh yourself with sparkling wine. Local Snacks: Enjoy a selection of local snacks prepared especially for the tour. Visiting Private Bays: Explore private bays that can only be accessed by boat, providing an exclusive experience. Swimming Stop: Stop to swim in turquoise waters, perfect for a refreshing swim. Memorable Photos: Capture stunning photos of the sea and landscape to share with friends and family. Magical Sunset Moment: Admire the sunset, the most magical moment of the day, especially on Madeira Island. The skies can transform into authentic works of art as the sun sets over the horizon, creating an unforgettable atmosphere. Come live this incredible experience and create lasting memories while sailing through the stunning waters of Madeira.

Levada dos Maroços - Half Day - Easy Walk

Levada dos Maroços - Half Day - Easy Walk

This trail begins in the Machico valley, in the southeast part of the island and consists of a flat trail of about 6.5 km, with an easy degree of difficulty. In this trail, also known as "Mimosas Valley" you can admire magnificent views over the Machico Valley (place where the Portuguese navigators first landed) and also the Desertas Islands. Along this trail you can observe agricultural fields, where vegetables and fruit are grown by the local population and appreciate some of the exotic flowers along the way.

Faro: Ria Formosa Islands

Faro: Ria Formosa Islands

Board a boat at the charming Doca de Faro for a 3-hour and 30-minute adventure through the tranquil waters of the Ria Formosa. Explore the stunning Ilha do Farol, the picturesque Ilha da Culatra, the historic Hangars, and the enchanting Deserta Island. Disembark at several points of interest to capture incredible photographs and venture out to discover the small fishing villages residing on these islands, which seem to have stopped in time. Every place you visit offers a unique glimpse into local life and the serenity of this natural paradise. Ideal for those who want to relax and enjoy the untouched beauty of the Ria Formosa, this tour is perfect for families, friends, and nature lovers. Come explore, relax, and create unforgettable memories in this idyllic setting.

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What people are saying about Desertas Islands

Overall rating

4.5
(1,225 reviews)

We were extremely satisfied! We left the port in Funchal on time. The catamaran trip was really exciting. When we arrived on the island, we were given an informative tour and were able to learn a lot about the local flora and fauna. Afterwards, we went snorkeling. We also had the option of using stand-up paddle boards. Afterwards, there was a very tasty buffet on the catamaran. When booking, you could even specify preferences or restrictions such as gluten intolerance, vegetarian, vegan.

Great trip by catamaran to the Ilhas Desertas, nice guide. I particularly liked the fact that the conservation was highlighted and that only a few tours take place there, thus ensuring the protection of the islands. Informative tour of the exhibition house, good explanation of the protection measures for seals and cuttlefish. Sighting of dolphins.

Extremely friendly and competent crew, wonderful scenery and Pilot whales + Bottlenose dolphins. Loved it and would recommend to take the trip!

Dolphins, great food, swimming in the ocean and the Desertas Islands themselves.

excellent very informative and to finish off the trip saw whales and dolphins