Snorkelling Trip at Ponta De São Lourenço Protected Area

The Ponta de São Lourenço Protected Area in Funchal, Portugal, offers a unique opportunity for snorkeling enthusiasts. This afternoon excursion takes visitors on an intimate exploration of the region’s vibrant marine ecosystem, with a maximum group size of 12 travelers. Priced starting at $36.96 per person, the trip includes round-trip transportation and all necessary equipment, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. What makes this snorkeling adventure particularly intriguing is the stunning backdrop of towering cliffs, which sets the stage for an unforgettable underwater discovery.

Key Points

• Guided snorkeling adventure in Ponta de São Lourenço, a protected coastal area in Funchal, Portugal, featuring diverse marine life and stunning landscapes.
• Afternoon excursion limited to 12 travelers for an intimate experience, priced at $36.96 per person and including round-trip transportation.
• Comprehensive safety briefing and necessary equipment provided, with participants required to be free of serious medical conditions.
• Opportunity to explore the vibrant underwater world of the protected area, which is subject to strict regulations to preserve the natural habitat.
• Earned a Badge of Excellence with 51 positive reviews, indicating a well-organized and satisfactory snorkeling experience.

Overview of the Snorkeling Trip

The Ponta de São Lourenço snorkeling trip in Funchal, Portugal, offers visitors a chance to explore the region’s protected marine reserve.

This afternoon excursion starts at 2:30 PM and lasts for an unspecified duration. The group size is capped at 12 travelers, ensuring an intimate experience.

Priced from $36.96 per person, the trip has earned a Badge of Excellence with 51 positive reviews.

With its stunning cliffs and opportunity to observe marine life in a natural habitat, this snorkeling adventure is an ideal activity for both beginners and experienced water enthusiasts.

Location and Protected Area

Ponta de São Lourenço Protected Area, located in Funchal, Portugal, is the scenic setting for this snorkeling adventure.

The protected area offers:

1. Stunning coastal landscapes with towering cliffs and azure waters.
2. A diverse marine ecosystem teeming with a variety of sea life.
3. Strict regulations to preserve the natural habitat and wildlife.
4. Accessibility via round-trip transportation from the nearby Azul Diving Center.

This unique marine reserve provides the perfect backdrop for an immersive snorkeling experience, allowing visitors to explore the region’s remarkable natural beauty and abundant marine life.

Activity and Duration

This snorkeling trip offers an afternoon adventure starting at 2:30 PM in the protected waters of Ponta de São Lourenço.

The excursion lasts for an undisclosed duration, allowing participants to fully enjoy the marine reserve.

The group size is limited to a maximum of 12 travelers, ensuring a personalized and intimate experience.

Priced from $36.96 per person, the trip provides visitors with the opportunity to explore the vibrant underwater world and appreciate the breathtaking coastal scenery.

The activity is suitable if you’re after a guided snorkeling adventure in a picturesque and ecologically significant area.

Group Size and Pricing

A maximum of 12 travelers can join the snorkeling excursion, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.

The activity is priced from $36.96 per person. This snorkeling adventure offers:

1. A Badge of Excellence with 51 reviews, indicating a high-quality experience.
2. Round-trip transportation to the protected marine area, eliminating the need for self-navigation.
3. Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, providing flexibility for travelers.
4. Snorkeling gear, including a mask, snorkel, and fins, are all provided as part of the activity.

Safety Measures and Equipment

For the safety and well-being of all participants, the tour operator provides a comprehensive safety briefing prior to the snorkeling activity.

During this briefing, the experienced guide covers essential safety protocols and best practices for snorkeling.

All necessary equipment, including masks, snorkels, and fins, is provided and properly fitted to ensure a comfortable and secure experience.

Participants must be free of any serious medical conditions, and children must be accompanied by an adult.

While the tour is not wheelchair accessible, it is located near public transportation options for convenient access.

Meeting Point and Logistics

The meeting point for the snorkeling trip is the Azul Diving Center, located at the Quinta do Lorde Marina in Caniçal, Portugal.

Parking is available at the marina for travelers. The experience includes round-trip transportation to and from the snorkeling location.

Additionally:

1. The meeting time is 2:30 PM for the afternoon snorkeling adventure.
2. The group size is limited to a maximum of 12 travelers.
3. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start of the experience.
4. The snorkeling site is located within the Ponta de São Lourenço Protected Area.

Highlights and Suitability for Beginners

Highlights of the snorkeling trip include the opportunity to take in the beautiful views of the towering cliffs along the Ponta de São Lourenço coastline.

The trip is also ideal for beginners, as a full safety briefing and snorkeling tips are provided by the experienced guides.

Travelers can expect to see a variety of marine life in their natural habitat, though some have expressed disappointment with the visibility of wildlife.

Customer Reviews and Feedback

Travelers who have experienced the snorkeling trip at Ponta de São Lourenço have provided an average rating of 4.5 stars based on 51 reviews.

The customer feedback highlights several key aspects:

1. Positive reviews praise the expertise of the guides, the stunning scenery, and the overall enjoyable experience.

2. Some guests expressed disappointment regarding the visibility of marine life during their snorkeling excursion.

3. A few travelers reported logistical issues, such as lost items or cancellations due to low participation.

4. While most found the trip suitable for beginners, a small number felt the experience did not fully meet their expectations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Marine Life Can I Expect to See During the Snorkeling Trip?

Visitors may have the chance to spot a variety of marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and octopus in the natural habitat of the protected marine reserve. Sightings depend on weather, visibility, and luck during the snorkeling experience.

Is the Snorkeling Suitable for Non-Swimmers or Beginners?

The snorkeling trip is suitable for beginners and non-swimmers. The guided tour provides a full safety briefing and tips to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience, even for those with little to no prior snorkeling experience.

Are There Any Restrictions on What I Can Bring on the Trip?

The snorkeling trip has some restrictions on personal items. Participants are not allowed to bring their own snorkel gear. However, all necessary equipment is provided, including mask, snorkel, and fins. No other personal items are allowed on the boat.

Can I Rent an Underwater Camera or Gopro From the Organizers?

According to the information provided, the organizers do not offer underwater camera or GoPro rentals. Guests are welcome to bring their own photography equipment, but no rental options are available through the snorkeling tour.

Is the Snorkeling Experience Suitable for Children of All Ages?

The snorkeling experience is suitable for children, but they must be accompanied by an adult. The minimum age requirement is not specified, so it may depend on the child’s comfort level in the water.

The Sum Up

The snorkeling trip at the Ponta de São Lourenço Protected Area offers a unique opportunity to explore a stunning marine ecosystem in a safe and eco-friendly manner. With round-trip transportation, professional equipment, and a small group size, this afternoon adventure is suitable for both experienced snorkelers and beginners alike. Enjoy the breathtaking underwater world of Funchal, Portugal, and create lasting memories of this unforgettable experience.