Madeira : 5 hour East Coast boat excursion

If you’re dreaming of cruising along Madeira’s rugged eastern coastline, this 5-hour boat trip offers a taste of dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and charming seaside villages. While not a perfect experience for everyone, especially given some mixed reviews, it remains a popular way to see this part of the island from a different perspective.

We like that this tour offers stunning views of iconic landmarks like Ponta de São Lourenço and the chance to swim and snorkel in unspoiled waters. The inclusion of lunch and drinks adds to the value, and the interactive crew helps make the experience more engaging. However, potential travelers should be aware that some reviews mention issues with boat cleanliness and organization, which could impact the overall enjoyment.

This trip is best suited for nature lovers, families with older children, and those who want a relaxed, scenic day on the water—though it’s not ideal for non-swimmers or seasickness-prone travelers.

Key Points

• Spectacular coastal views from the boat and at each stop.
• Swimming and snorkeling opportunities in calm waters.
• Lunch and drinks included make for a convenient experience.
• Interactive crew providing explanations and engaging commentary.
• Not suitable for non-swimmers or those sensitive to seasickness.
• Mixed reviews highlight the importance of managing expectations about boat cleanliness and organization.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Madeira’s East Coast: What to Expect

This boat tour promises a full look at some of Madeira’s most photogenic and fascinating coastal sights. Starting from the Funchal marina, it’s a well-organized setup with a clear meeting point at pier no. 8, where you’ll find the Bonita da Madeira kiosk under the kiosks area. The boat itself isn’t highlighted as luxurious, but it provides a decent platform for a day of sightseeing and relaxation.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Ponta de São Lourenço

The journey kicks off with a visit to the Ponta de São Lourenço, a natural peninsula famed for its rugged cliffs and panoramic views. Here, you may have the chance to swim and snorkel for about two minutes, according to tour details—an opportunity to cool off in crystal-clear waters. Reviewers mention the stunning landscape, with one noting it as a “natural paradise”, perfect for photos.

Stop 2: Garajau Reserve

Next, the boat heads towards the Garajau Reserve, where vibrant marine life and turquoise waters meet towering cliffs. This is a highlight for many as it offers a chance to observe marine biodiversity from the boat or during snorkel stops. The marine atmosphere here is often described as breathtaking and worth the trip.

Stop 3: Cristo Rei

The majestic Cristo Rei statue, towering over the cliffs, provides a striking visual and a sense of awe. The crew offers explanations about the landmarks, making the experience more educational. This stop may also include some leisurely time to appreciate the views.

Stop 4: Reis Magos and Santa Cruz

The tour includes visits to Reis Magos in Caniço de Baixo and Santa Cruz, charming seaside towns that showcase Madeira’s local coastal charm. These areas are excellent for photos and relaxing strolls, with the boat providing a different vantage point.

Final Highlights: Machico Bay & Baía d’Abra

The tranquil Machico Bay invites a refreshing swim, with calm waters perfect for relaxing and enjoying the scenery. The last stop at the Baía d’Abra Natural Reserve emphasizes the island’s untouched beauty, biodiversity, and scenic landscapes—ideal for nature enthusiasts.

What Makes This Tour Special

The stunning cliff formations, panoramic views from the boat, and opportunity to swim in secluded spots make this a compelling outing. The boat’s route covers a variety of coastlines, from dramatic headlands to peaceful bays, providing a well-rounded experience of Madeira’s eastern side.

The Experience on Board

The tour includes a welcome Madeira wine, enhancing the relaxed, celebratory vibe. The lunch, which features a pre-established menu, is served with a free drink (water, Coca Cola, beer, or wine) plus fresh fruit—offering good value considering the duration and inclusions.

The crew is described as interactive and informative, offering explanations about the landmarks and marine environment. This engagement makes the trip more memorable, especially for those interested in learning about Madeira’s natural features.

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Practical Details

• The tour lasts around 5 hours, with specific start times depending on availability.
• Transportation to and from the marina is not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation.
• The meeting point at Funchal marina is easy to find, with clear signage.
• The activity is wheelchair accessible but not suitable for non-swimmers or those prone to seasickness.
• Bring essentials like sunscreen, swimwear, a towel, sunglasses, and a jacket—the weather can be changeable at sea.

The Realities: Pros and Cons

While many travelers find this boat tour a beautiful way to see Madeira’s coast, a few reviews highlight some issues. One traveler noted trouble with organizing pickup, while another described the boat as dirty and unkempt with staff that seemed unfriendly. These comments serve as a reminder that the experience can vary, and travelers should be prepared for potential inconsistencies.

The price point is reasonable for an all-included half-day tour, especially considering the lunch, drinks, and swimming stops. However, if you prioritize luxury or top-tier service, this might not meet your expectations.

Is This Tour Worth It?

In the end, this east coast boat trip offers a solid snapshot of Madeira’s natural beauty from the water. The stunning scenery, the opportunity for a swim, and the included lunch make it a practical choice for those seeking an active, scenic day. However, the mixed reviews about boat cleanliness and organization suggest it’s best to manage expectations and perhaps consider this as part of a broader itinerary.

If you appreciate spectacular coastlines, marine wildlife, and relaxed sightseeing, this tour can be a rewarding experience. It’s especially suitable if you’re comfortable on boats and value the chance to explore the island’s coastline from a different angle.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This trip is ideal for nature lovers and photographers eager to capture Madeira’s dramatic cliffs and scenic vistas. It’s also a good pick for families with older children who want to enjoy a day on the water, but not for non-swimmers or those sensitive to seasickness. If you’re seeking a hassle-free, luxurious cruise, you might want to explore other options.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers?
No, it’s not recommended for non-swimmers since swimming is part of the experience, and water stops are included.

What should I bring with me?
Bring sunscreen, swimwear, a towel, sunglasses, snacks, and a jacket. Weather can change quickly at sea, so be prepared for both sun and wind.

Are there any additional costs?
No, taxes and fees are included, and the tour’s price covers the lunch, drinks, and activities.

Does this tour include hotel pick-up?
No, pick-up and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to make your own way to the marina.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 5 hours, with specific start times depending on availability.

Is the boat wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, but check in advance for specific needs.

Final Thoughts

This Madeira east coast boat tour offers an accessible, scenic, and engaging way to experience the island’s coastline. With beautiful cliffs, marine life, and charming towns to explore, it provides a well-rounded day out. While some reviews mention issues with boat cleanliness and organization, many travelers enjoy the stunning views and the chance to relax on the water.

For those who value authentic natural scenery, a laid-back vibe, and inclusive amenities, this trip presents a reasonably priced option to enjoy Madeira’s eastern shores. Just keep in mind the potential for variable service quality and prepare accordingly to maximize your experience.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a regular explorer of Madeira, this trip can be a memorable addition to your island adventure—just set your expectations, bring your gear, and enjoy the ride.

You can check availability for your dates here: