Madeira: Private Catamaran Tour with Snorkeling

If you’re dreaming of a day on the water soaking up Madeira’s dramatic coastlines and vibrant marine life, a private catamaran tour might just be your perfect escape. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, reviews highlight a journey packed with sunshine, scenic views, and plenty of opportunities to explore beneath the surface.

What really sets this experience apart is the chance to customize your route—whether you want to relax on deck, snorkel in crystal waters, or paddle around in kayaks. The spacious 15-meter Privilege catamaran sounds ideal for a laid-back day with friendly crew, comfortable amenities, and a focus on tailored adventures.

One thing to consider is that this tour isn’t suited for very young children or those prone to seasickness, so it’s best for families with older kids or adults who love the open sea. If you’re after an authentic, flexible marine escapade with stunning views and a touch of luxury, this experience might be just what you’re looking for.

This experience made our article of Which Funchal Cruises And Boat Tours To Choose? Our Best 10 Picks.

Key Points

• Private, customizable routes ensure the experience suits your interests.
• Comfortable 15-meter catamaran with spacious lounging and water access.
• Snorkeling and water sports like paddleboarding and kayaking included.
• Includes a welcome drink and snacks, adding a relaxed, social vibe.
• Ideal for families and couples seeking a personalized, scenic adventure.
• Not suitable for children under 2 or those with mobility issues.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Private Catamaran Experience

This three-hour private sailing trip is based out of Quinta do Lorde Resort Hotel Marina, a convenient starting point that offers both luxury and practicality. The vessel, a 15-meter Privilege catamaran called Sensation, is designed with comfort and safety in mind, boasting spacious lounging areas, a cozy saloon, and easy access to the water.

You’ll be sailing along the coast, feeling the wind in your hair and taking in panoramic views of Madeira’s rugged cliffs, hidden bays, and shimmering waters. The boat’s average speed of 6 knots allows for a leisurely pace, giving ample time for sightseeing, relaxing, and water activities.

What makes this tour stand out? It’s the ability to tailor the route—whether you prefer a quick coastal cruise or a longer exploration of nearby islands or hidden coves. You can choose from half-day, full-day, or even overnight trips, making it flexible for different interests and schedules.

Itinerary Breakdown and Highlights

Starting Point: Quinta do Lorde Resort Hotel Marina

This marina is a scenic and convenient spot to board your vessel, surrounded by luxury resorts and lush surroundings. It’s easy to get here, and the dock area provides a relaxed atmosphere for the start of your adventure.

Stop 1: Canical (Sailing Duration: 3.5 hours)

Once underway, the first highlight is sailing past Madeira’s dramatic coastline, with views of towering cliffs and lush green hills. Guests report feeling a rush of freedom and admiration for the scenery.

You might catch glimpses of local wildlife and marine life, thanks to the snorkeling gear provided. As one reviewer noted, “The waters are so clear, it feels like swimming in an aquarium.” The crew is known for being friendly and helpful, often anchoring in secluded spots ideal for swimming and exploring the underwater world.

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Water Activities and Relaxation

Access to paddleboards, kayaks, and snorkeling masks means you can choose how to spend your time—whether you want to float in the water, paddle around, or simply lounge with a drink in hand. The boat’s amenities, including towels, a sound system, and a small kitchen with a fridge, ensure comfort during your trip.

Return to Quinta do Lorde

After exploring the coast and enjoying some water time, you’ll head back to the starting point, savoring the last views of Madeira’s stunning cliffs and blue waters.

What’s Included and How It Adds Value

The tour packs a lot into its price point. You get a private boat with a dedicated captain and crew, which means personalized attention and flexibility. The inclusion of snacks, welcome drinks, towels, and safety gear means you won’t need to worry about bringing much besides your essentials like sunscreen and camera.

The availability of dinghies, paddleboards, kayaks, and snorkeling equipment offers a well-rounded water adventure. Plus, access to the cabins provides a shaded space for resting if the sun gets too intense. The sound system and radio allow for a personalized soundtrack or communication as needed.

Practical Considerations

• The trip duration is around 3 hours, though longer options are available if you want more time on the water.
• Private group booking makes this ideal for special occasions or family gatherings.
• The route is customizable, so you can prioritize scenic cruising, snorkeling, or relaxing in a quiet cove.
• Reservations can be made with the flexibility of pay later and full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance.

What Reviewers Say About the Experience

Guests highlight the stunning views as a top feature, with many mentioning how the coastline looks even more breathtaking from the water. “The landscape from the boat is incredibly different from land, with cliffs and hidden coves I’d never see otherwise,” one reviewer shares.

The crew received praise for their friendliness and helpfulness, with some noting, “They really made us feel at home,” and “The captain was accommodating to our preferences, making the trip very personalized.”

Snorkeling was also a hit, with comments like, “The water was so clear, we saw plenty of fish and marine life even close to the boat.” The availability of paddleboards and kayaks added a fun, active element that many travelers appreciated.

Some Practical Insights

• The tour is family-friendly but not suitable for children under 2 or for those with mobility issues.
• Since no Wi-Fi is provided, it’s a good chance to disconnect and enjoy nature.
• Guests recommend bringing sunscreen, hats, and waterproof cameras to capture the moment.
• Reviewers emphasize that the experience is flexible, allowing you to skip or emphasize parts of the route based on your interests.

Price and Value Analysis

While the tour isn’t the cheapest activity in Madeira, the private nature and flexibility justify the cost for many travelers. For around the cost of a few fancy dinners, you get a personalized day on the water, complete with water sports equipment, snacks, and a knowledgeable crew.

Compared to group tours, this private experience offers more intimacy, customization, and the chance to really tailor your day—something that many guests find worth the extra expense.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits those who want a relaxed, luxurious day on the water with the freedom to customize their route and activities. It’s particularly appealing to families, couples, or groups of friends seeking an exclusive, scenic maritime adventure.

It’s a great option if you love swimming, snorkeling, or simply want to enjoy Madeira from a different perspective—away from crowded beaches and busy boat trips. However, it’s less ideal for very young children, individuals with mobility issues, or anyone prone to seasickness.

The Sum Up

This private catamaran tour offers a blend of comfort, flexibility, and natural beauty that’s hard to beat. You’ll enjoy sweeping coastlines, the chance to snorkel in clear waters, and the freedom to shape your day according to your preferences. It’s perfect for travelers looking to experience Madeira with a touch of luxury and a lot of authentic ocean scenery.

If you’re after a memorable, personalized water adventure that combines stunning views with active water sports, this tour provides excellent value. The friendly crew, customizable routes, and well-equipped boat make it a worthwhile investment in your Madeira holiday.

Just remember to bring your camera, sunscreen, and a spirit of adventure—this trip could become one of your favorite memories from the island.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The standard trip lasts around 3 hours, with options for longer or overnight bookings available.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Quinta do Lorde Resort Hotel Marina, a scenic and accessible location.

What’s included in the package?
You’ll get a private sailing experience with a captain and crew, snacks, welcome drinks, towels, safety gear, snorkeling masks, paddleboards, kayaks, and access to the cabins.

Is food provided?
Snacks and welcome drinks are included in the half and full-day trips, but no full meals. You can bring your own food and drinks onboard.

Can I customize the route?
Yes, the route is flexible and can be tailored to your preferences, whether you want more snorkeling, scenic cruising, or relaxing in a bay.

Is this suitable for families?
Yes, it’s family-friendly, but not recommended for children under 2 or those with mobility impairments or seasickness.

Is Wi-Fi available onboard?
No, Wi-Fi is not provided, making it a perfect chance to disconnect and enjoy the surroundings.

What should I bring?
Essentials include sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a camera.

Can I cancel the reservation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

This private Madeira catamaran tour promises a memorable blend of scenic beauty, water fun, and personalized service—ideal for those wanting a special day on the Atlantic.

You can check availability for your dates here: