Boat trip from Faro to Ilha Deserta by Ferry

If you’re seeking a day of peace, natural beauty, and a break from the busy Algarve tourist scene, a boat trip to Ilha Deserta might just be what you need. This ferry adventure offers a chance to visit a rugged, unspoiled island where the only sounds are waves and bird calls. While we haven’t personally been on this exact trip, reviews and descriptions paint a compelling picture of what makes it worth considering for your travel itinerary.

What we love about this experience? First, the stunning scenery and peaceful beaches that make the island feel like your private paradise. Second, the birdwatching opportunities, especially if you’re into observing herons, plovers, and other native species. Third, the affordable price—just around $12 per person—and how accessible it is with multiple departure times. The only thing to keep in mind? The ferry duration can be longer than some expect, and bookings should be made well in advance if you want to secure a preferred time slot. This tour suits those wanting a relaxed, naturally beautiful outing, especially bird lovers, beach fans, or anyone craving a quiet escape.

Key Points

• Affordable adventure at around $11.61 per person offers great value for a full day out.
• Birdwatching is a highlight, with native species clearly visible in the scenic surroundings.
• Convenient departure from Faro with flexible options and all fees included.
• Uncrowded beaches provide a perfect spot for sunbathing, walking, or simply soaking up the tranquility.
• Timings and booking should be planned ahead—most travelers book about 13 days in advance.
• Group size is limited, with a maximum of 97 travelers, ensuring a relaxed atmosphere.

The Itinerary: What to Expect on Your Trip

The journey begins at the Cais das Portas do Mar in Faro, a lively yet relaxed starting point. From there, the ferry ride to Ilha Deserta takes around 45 minutes, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the coastal scenery. Passengers often comment on the friendly, helpful staff and the ease of navigation, with some reviews mentioning the onboard restrooms for added comfort.

Departure and Arrival

The boat departs from the designated pier, where the crew is generally praised for their kindness and professional service. As one reviewer noted, “The staff on our ferry were extremely kind and helpful,” and the boat ran on time, making the whole experience smooth. The ferry’s design usually includes outdoor seating and restrooms, perfect for enjoying the views and staying comfortable.

The Island Experience

Once ashore, you’ll find white sandy beaches and unspoiled nature. There’s no mention of guided tours or facilities, but reviews reveal the island’s overall appeal: relaxing beaches and a quiet atmosphere. Visitors often spend about four hours on the island, which is enough to sunbathe, walk, or birdwatch.

Travelers highlight the vivid birdlife, with sightings of herons, plovers, and black-winged stilts. As one reviewer enthusiastically shared, “The beach is beautiful and relaxing, with the sound of the ocean. An amazing experience, would go there regularly if close to me.” So, bringing binoculars or a camera might enhance your visit.

Returning

The return ferry generally departs at a pre-set time, with reviews praising the punctuality and friendly service. Some travelers, however, noted that late bookings might limit your return options—one review mentions being told after booking that there was no space after 2 p.m., so planning ahead is key.

The Real Value of This Trip

Pricing at just over $11 is quite reasonable considering the cost includes all taxes and fees, making it a straightforward, budget-friendly choice. The main expense is time rather than money, but given the peaceful scenery, birdwatching, and beach lounging, many find it well worth the cost.

It’s worth noting that food and drinks are not included**, so bringing snacks or a picnic is recommended if you plan to spend several hours on the island. There are no guides included, which means the trip is purely self-directed; however, reviews highlight the helpfulness of staff, making it easy for first-timers to feel comfortable.

The Experience & Customer Feedback

The majority of reviews are glowing. Travelers describe the ferry ride as relaxing and scenic, with some even booking a second trip because they loved it so much. Many mention the helpful, friendly staff, and the overall ease of booking, including those who booked last-minute via Viator.

One review noted, “The ferry was on time and the staff were excellent,” while another commented, “The staff on our ferry were extremely kind and helpful. The ferry was very easy to navigate and there were restrooms aboard.” These details underscore how smooth and enjoyable the entire process is.

Potential Drawbacks

A few travelers experienced some hiccups—like the booking restrictions after a certain time or a slightly longer-than-expected ferry ride (around 40-45 minutes). Also, the beaches might be less developed compared to other tourist spots, so don’t expect amenities or concessions on the island itself.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal for travelers craving a peaceful, nature-centric day outside the busy resorts. Bird enthusiasts will especially appreciate the native species, while beach lovers can enjoy the unspoiled sands. It also suits those who prefer a straightforward, budget-friendly outing without guided tours or extra frills. If you’re looking for a quick, scenic escape and don’t mind packing your own snacks, this ferry trip will deliver a memorable, authentic Algarve experience.

The Sum Up

A ferry ride to Ilha Deserta offers a pure, unpolished taste of the Algarve’s natural side. With its tranquil beaches, birdwatching opportunities, and stunning scenery, it’s perfect for those looking to unwind and connect with nature. The affordability and ease of booking make it accessible for many, while the friendly staff and scenic boat ride add to its appeal.

However, it’s best suited for travelers who are comfortable with a self-guided experience, bringing their own supplies, and planning ahead to secure a preferred departure time. The lack of guided commentary or facilities means it’s more about the raw beauty of the island than a curated tourist attraction.

If you’re after a quiet day by the sea, away from crowds and commercialism, this ferry trip to Ilha Deserta could become a highlight of your Algarve adventure.

FAQ: Your Practical Questions Answered

How much does the ferry trip cost?
The trip costs approximately $11.61 per person, including all taxes and fees, making it a very affordable way to see the island.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 13 days ahead, especially if they want to secure a specific departure time, as demand can be high.

What’s included in the price?
All taxes, fees, and handling charges are included. The ticket covers the ferry round-trip, but food, drinks, and guide services are not.

How long is the ferry ride?
The ferry ride takes around 45 minutes each way, providing plenty of time to enjoy the coastal views and relax aboard.

Are there bathroom facilities on the ferry?
Yes, most boats are equipped with restrooms, which reviewers found very handy during the trip.

Can children participate?
Yes, children must be accompanied by an adult, and most travelers say the experience is suitable for all ages.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, water, snacks if you want to stay longer, and binoculars or cameras for birdwatching and scenery. Remember, no food or drinks are included.

Is the island accessible for all travelers?
While the reviews don’t specify accessibility details, the unspoiled beaches suggest minimal infrastructure, so it may not be ideal for those with mobility issues.

In essence, this ferry trip from Faro to Ilha Deserta offers a straightforward, charming escape into nature. It’s a lovely way to disconnect for a day, especially if you enjoy birdwatching, beaches, and scenic boat rides. Just plan ahead, bring your essentials, and prepare for a peaceful, authentic Algarve adventure.