Catamaran Day Cruise to Desertas Islands From Funchal

Exploring the pristine Desertas Islands off Funchal’s coast is a breathtaking experience. This full-day catamaran cruise offers a chance to take in the untouched natural beauty, with ample opportunities to hike, swim, and soak up the sun. Complemented by a fresh fish buffet lunch, the journey promises a delightful blend of adventure and culinary indulgence. Flexibility comes in the form of a generous cancellation policy, allowing travelers to plan their trip with confidence. Whether seeking an awe-inspiring landscape or a chance to disconnect from the world, this cruise may be the perfect gateway to discovering the wonders of the Desertas Islands.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Madeira.

Good To Know

• A full-day catamaran cruise from Funchal to the Desertas Islands, offering the opportunity to witness diverse marine life during the journey.
• Includes a 3-hour exploration of the Desertas Islands, allowing activities such as hiking, swimming, and sunbathing, along with a fresh fish buffet lunch.
• The cruise has a flexible cancellation policy, allowing full refunds up to 24 hours prior, providing convenience for modern travelers.
• The overall traveler experiences are mixed, with positive feedback on the crew quality and fresh seafood, but disappointment regarding limited time on the islands and weather conditions.
• The cruise is priced at £76.91 and can be booked through Viator, with the Viator Help Centre available for additional assistance and inquiries.

Overview of the Cruise

The full-day catamaran cruise from Funchal to the Desertas Islands offers participants the opportunity to witness the natural wonders of this remote archipelago.

Departing from Funchal Marina, the crew welcomes travelers aboard for the journey. Along the way, guests can spot diverse marine life before arriving at the natural reserves.

Once there, they’ll have three hours to hike, swim, or simply soak up the sun. The experience includes a fresh fish buffet lunch with select beverages, providing a delightful dining experience.

This cruise allows visitors to enjoy the Desertas Islands’ serene beauty and untouched environments.

Cancellation and Flexibility

Fortunately, the cruise offers a flexible cancellation policy, providing travelers with a full refund for cancellations made up to 24 hours in advance.

This flexibility allows potential participants to plan their trip without financial risk, enhancing customer satisfaction and trust. Last-minute changes are also accommodated, catering to the needs of modern travelers.

The cancellation policy showcases the operator’s commitment to customer service, ensuring a worry-free booking experience. This assurance empowers travelers to make informed decisions, knowing they can adjust their plans if necessary without incurring penalties.

Traveler Experiences and Feedback

Reviews of the catamaran cruise to the Desertas Islands paint a mixed picture, with an overall rating of 3.7 out of 32 reviews.

While some travelers praised the quality of the crew and the fresh fish buffet lunch, others found the experience not as described.

Highlights included sightings of wildlife like orcas, but disappointment was expressed regarding the limited time spent on the islands and the lack of attractions.

Concerns were raised about the weather conditions, the small hiking trails, and the quality of swimming and beach areas.

Highlights and Disappointments

According to traveler feedback, the catamaran cruise to the Desertas Islands offered a mix of highlights and disappointments.

While some noted awe-inspiring wildlife sightings like orcas, others were disappointed by the limited time spent on the islands. The hiking trails were described as small and restricted, leaving some travelers unfulfilled.

Weather conditions also impacted the experience, with windy and cold conditions reported.

While the crew quality and fresh fish buffet lunch received positive comments, the overall island attractions were viewed as lacking by certain visitors.

Island Exploration and Activities

Travelers on the catamaran cruise are allotted three hours to explore the Desertas Islands, providing ample opportunity to hike, swim, or simply bask in the sun.

The hiking trails on the islands, while limited in scope, offer a chance to see the unique flora and fauna up close. Swimming conditions can be mixed, depending on the weather, with some travelers reporting windy and cold conditions impacting their experience.

Those seeking a relaxing day may find the island’s beaches suitable for sunbathing, though the overall attractions on the islands are considered limited by some.

Ultimately, the time spent on the Desertas Islands is a highlight for many, though the experience can vary.

Dining and Refreshment Options

The catamaran cruise includes a fresh fish buffet lunch accompanied by select beverages, catering to passengers’ dining needs.

The meal features a variety of locally-sourced seafood dishes, ensuring a taste of the island’s culinary offerings. Passengers can also enjoy a selection of non-alcoholic drinks, such as water, juices, and soft drinks, to stay refreshed throughout the day.

The on-board dining experience is designed to complement the scenic journey, allowing travelers to savor the flavors of Madeira while taking in the breathtaking views of the Desertas Islands.

The inclusion of the buffet lunch and beverages in the overall cruise package provides a convenient and satisfying dining option for guests.

Pricing and Booking Details

The starting price for the catamaran cruise to the Desertas Islands is £76.91.

Various booking options are available through Viator, the tour provider. The terms and conditions are outlined clearly for travellers, ensuring transparency.

To secure a spot, early booking is encouraged as the cruise may sell out quickly.

Should travellers have any additional questions, the Viator Help Centre is available to assist them.

Additional Information and Support

For those with additional questions or concerns, the Viator Help Centre is available to provide further assistance.

Customers can reach out to the centre through various channels, including phone, email, or live chat, to get answers to any queries they may have about the catamaran cruise to the Desertas Islands.

The team is knowledgeable and responsive, aiming to address any issues or clarify any uncertainties.

Travelers are encouraged to take advantage of this support, ensuring they’ve all the information they need to make the most of their excursion.

With the help centre’s guidance, customers can feel confident in their booking and better prepared for their adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Duration of the Cruise?

The catamaran cruise is a full-day excursion, with the opportunity to spend three hours exploring the Desertas Islands. The cruise departs from Funchal Marina and includes a fresh fish buffet lunch.

Are Any Stops Made During the Journey?

Yes, the cruise offers the opportunity to spot sea life en route to the natural reserve islands. Passengers have three hours available to hike, swim, or sunbathe on the Desertas Islands during the full-day excursion.

Is There a Limit on the Number of Passengers?

The cruise typically has a maximum capacity of 49 passengers. The specific passenger limit may vary depending on the tour operator and boat size, so it’s best to check the details when booking to ensure availability.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Passengers can bring their own food and drinks on the cruise, but a fresh fish buffet lunch with select beverages is already included in the tour price. It’s best to check with the tour operator for any specific restrictions.

What Is the Dress Code for the Cruise?

The cruise has a casual, relaxed dress code. Comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for walking, swimming, and enjoying the outdoors are recommended. Layering is advised as weather conditions can be variable.

Sum Up

The Desertas Islands catamaran cruise from Funchal offers a unique opportunity to explore pristine natural landscapes and diverse marine life. With flexible cancellation policies, a delightful fish buffet lunch, and a range of on-shore activities, this full-day adventure caters to travelers seeking an immersive and memorable experience amidst the breathtaking oceanic vistas of the Desertas Islands.