From Funchal: Wooden Boat Excursion to Desertas Island

Set out on a captivating wooden boat journey from Funchal to the stunning Desertas Island. This 7.5-hour excursion offers a unique chance to explore dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and a rich array of wildlife. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll have opportunities to spot dolphins and whales amidst breathtaking coastal landscapes. The experience includes a welcome drink, lunch, and return refreshments, all for a reasonable price. With solid reviews, this adventure promises an unforgettable escape into nature.

Key Points

• Explore the remote Desertas Islands, a pristine marine environment accessible only by boat, on a 7.5-hour wooden boat excursion from Funchal.
• Admire the dramatic cliffs, up to 600 meters high, and the stunning coastal landscapes of Desertas Grande, the main stop on the tour.
• Spot dolphins, whales, and unique fauna, including the rare Desertas petrel, in the diverse marine ecosystems surrounding the islands.
• Enjoy a guided experience with a knowledgeable guide, complimentary welcome drink, lunch, and return refreshment, all for $107.47 per person.
• Based on over 22 reviews, the excursion receives an overall rating of 4 out of 5, with positive feedback on the coastal scenery and wildlife sightings.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Wooden Boat Excursion

The Wooden Boat Excursion to Desertas Island offers a unique opportunity to explore the stunning natural beauty of this remote archipelago.

A unique opportunity to explore the stunning natural beauty of the remote Desertas Island archipelago.

Lasting 7.5 hours, the tour allows participants to enjoy the serene coastal landscapes and diverse marine life.

With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, guests can expect to spot dolphins, whales, and unique fauna during the excursion.

The tour includes a complimentary welcome drink, lunch, and return refreshment, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Priced at $107.47 per person, the excursion provides excellent value for money, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

Exploring the Desertas Islands

Nestled in the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean, the Desertas Islands present a true oasis of tranquility and untamed natural beauty.

This rugged archipelago, accessible only by boat, offers visitors a unique opportunity to enjoy a pristine marine environment.

The main stop on the excursion, Desertas Grande, boasts dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and a diverse array of endemic flora and fauna.

Visitors may spot playful dolphins, majestic whales, and the rare Desertas petrel, all while enjoying a refreshing swim or snorkeling adventure.

This secluded island sanctuary promises an unforgettable natural escape.

Scenic Coastal Landscapes and Impressive Cliffs

Towering cliffs line the coastline of the Desertas Islands, sculpted by the relentless forces of wind and waves over millennia.

These dramatic rock formations rise abruptly from the azure waters, creating a breathtaking backdrop for the wooden boat excursion. Visitors can marvel at the sheer scale and impressive heights of the cliffs, which reach up to 600 meters in some areas.

Dramatic rock formations rise abruptly from azure waters, creating a breathtaking backdrop for the wooden boat excursion. Cliffs reach up to 600 meters.

The varying textures and hues of the rock face, ranging from deep ochre to pale beige, add to the visual splendor of the landscape.

Exploring these rugged, picturesque shores is a highlight of the Desertas Islands experience.

Spotting Marine Life: Dolphins, Whales, and Unique Fauna

As visitors admire the dramatic coastal landscapes and impressive cliffs, they’ll also have the chance to spot an array of captivating marine life during the Desertas Islands excursion. The excursion offers a high possibility of sighting dolphins, whales, and unique fauna. Guests may encounter a variety of marine species, including:

| Animal | Sightings |

|——–|———–|

| Dolphins | Frequent |

| Whales | Occasional |

| Hammerhead Sharks | Rare |

| Pilot Whales | Occasional |

| Bottlenose Dolphins | Frequent |

This natural haven is teeming with diverse marine ecosystems, providing an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts.

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Included Amenities and Dining Experience

The excursion provides a delightful dining experience, with a welcome drink of Madeira wine upon arrival.

Lunch is included, featuring a drink and fresh fruit.

The return journey includes a refreshing juice or hot chocolate, depending on the season.

The meeting point is the Bonita da Madeira kiosk at pier 8 in the marina, ensuring a convenient start to the adventure.

These thoughtful amenities elevate the overall experience, allowing guests to fully enjoy the natural beauty of the Desertas Islands without worrying about basic needs.

Customer Reviews and Ratings

Over 22 reviews, the Wooden Boat Excursion to Desertas Island maintains an overall rating of 4 out of 5.

Travelers praise the knowledgeable guide, who earns a 4.5/5 rating. The value for money also receives a solid 4.1/5 score.

The knowledgeable guide earns a 4.5/5 rating, and the value for money receives a solid 4.1/5 score.

Highlights include seeing dolphins, whales, and even a hammerhead shark, as well as enjoying the stunning coastal scenery.

One reviewer from Poland describes the trip as "relaxing, with spectacular views and a refreshing swim."

An Austrian guest appreciated the "friendly crew and wonderful scenery," including pilot whales and bottlenose dolphins.

Pickup Options and Preparation

Pickup options are available from various locations around the island, including Machico, Santa Cruz, Caniço, Funchal, Câmara de Lobos, and Ribeira Brava. This provides convenience for travelers across the region.

To prepare for the excursion, guests should bring a towel, swimsuit, jacket, and comfortable, waterproof shoes. These items will ensure you’re ready for the boat ride, swimming, and walking on the island.

With the reserve now, pay later option, you can easily book your spot and finalize the details closer to the departure date, providing flexibility for your plans.

Flexibility With Reserve Now, Pay Later

With the reserve now, pay later option, travelers can easily book their spot on the Wooden Boat Excursion to Desertas Island without needing to pay upfront. This flexible booking process allows visitors to secure their place on the tour and finalize payment at a later date, providing a convenient way to plan and manage their travel arrangements. This feature is particularly useful for those with uncertain schedules or who want to finalize their plans closer to the departure date. The reserve now, pay later option offers a stress-free way to book the Wooden Boat Excursion.

| Benefits | Flexibility | Convenience |

| — | — | — |

| Book now, pay later | Adjust plans as needed | No upfront payment required |

| Secure spot on tour | Finalize details closer to trip | Stress-free booking process |

Since You Asked

Is the Boat Suitable for People With Limited Mobility?

The boat may not be suitable for people with limited mobility, as the itinerary includes a guided tour and optional swimming/snorkeling activities. Customers should consider their physical abilities before booking this excursion.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Excursion?

Passengers can bring their own food and drinks on the excursion. However, a light lunch and return drink are provided as part of the included amenities. Bringing additional snacks or water is generally allowed.

Is There an Opportunity to Go Hiking on the Islands?

Yes, the itinerary includes a guided tour of approximately 20 minutes on the Desertas Islands. Visitors can explore the islands and go hiking during this time to take in the stunning coastal landscapes and impressive cliffs.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participating in the Excursion?

The excursion doesn’t mention any age restrictions. It’s suitable for all ages, as it involves activities like walking, swimming, and snorkeling. The tour is family-friendly and caters to a wide range of participants.

Can I Purchase Any Souvenirs or Local Products During the Trip?

The excursion doesn’t include opportunities to purchase souvenirs or local products. The focus is on the scenic boat ride, swimming, and wildlife sightings at the Desertas Islands. Travelers can’t shop during the trip.

The Sum Up

This captivating 7.5-hour wooden boat excursion from Funchal to the Desertas Islands offers an unforgettable escape into nature. Explore dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and spot dolphins and whales while enjoying breathtaking coastal landscapes. The tour includes a complimentary welcome drink, lunch, and return refreshments, making it a well-rounded experience for just $107.47 per person. With a solid 4 out of 5 rating, this adventure promises an immersive exploration of the island’s rich natural wonders.

You can check availability for your dates here: