Funchal: Full-Day Fajãs Route Madeira Coastal Tour w/ Lunch

If you’re dreaming of a day spent floating along Madeira’s dramatic coast, this Fajãs Route by catamaran could be just what you’re looking for. It combines the thrill of exploring nature’s untouched beauty with the comfort of a well-organized cruise. While it’s not a long hike or a history-rich museum, it’s a chance to see Madeira’s volcanic landscapes and rugged cliffs from the water, with plenty of opportunities for sea activities and relaxation.

What we love about this tour is how it balances spectacular scenery with a laid-back vibe—perfect for those who want a taste of adventure without strenuous trekking. The highlight for many is snorkeling over the seabed and trying out stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking, which adds a playful dimension to the day. Plus, the lunch buffet onboard offers a decent value for the price, especially considering the full nine-hour experience.

A potential consideration is that the trip isn’t suitable for travelers with mobility issues or pregnant women, given the focus on sea activities and boat time. Also, as with any weather-dependent tour, bad weather could mean cancellations or changes in plans—something to keep in mind when booking.

This trip suits travelers eager to see Madeira’s coastline from a different perspective, especially those who enjoy water-based activities, scenic views, and a relaxed day with a small group or family.

Key Points

• Stunning coastal views of Madeira’s southwest cliffs and volcanic formations
• Variety of sea activities including snorkeling, paddleboarding, and kayaking
• Authentic scenery with abandoned terraces and untouched slopes
• Convenient all-day experience with lunch and multiple stops
• Accessible boat amenities with toilets and bar options onboard
• Ideal for active, water-loving travelers who enjoy scenic boat trips

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Madeira’s Dramatic Coastline by Catamaran

This tour begins at the bustling Funchal Marina around 09:00, promising a full day of exploration along Madeira’s southwestern coast. Over nine hours, you’ll glide past towering cliffs, deep valleys, and volcanic slopes that show off the island’s geological might. The boat—comfortably equipped with toilets and a bar—serves as your floating platform for the day.

From the start, the journey offers a chance to appreciate Madeira’s rugged beauty from the water. Your guide will share brief insights into the landscape, helping you understand what makes this coast so unique—think volcanic rock colors, abandoned stone terraces, and virgin slopes untouched by human hands. Many terraces, once cultivated, are now deserted, offering a poignant reminder of the island’s agricultural past and the challenges of farming on such vertiginous terrain.

The Highlights of the Coastal Cruise

One of the most memorable aspects of this tour is the opportunity to witness stone terraces carved into the steep slopes. These terraces, some no longer in use, give a striking visual of how humans tried to tame the land. It’s worth noting that many are no longer plowed, and some are dangerous to access—so seeing them from the boat is a safer way to appreciate their scale and ingenuity.

As you cruise along, the volcanic landscape reveals itself with a kaleidoscope of colors—reds, blacks, and browns—highlighting Madeira’s fiery origins. The cliffs plunge into the Atlantic, offering dramatic photo opportunities, especially when the weather cooperates. Many reviewers mention the breathtaking views, describing the coastline as “spectacular” and “almost surreal.”

The Sea Activities

The afternoon stop is the tour’s highlight for many. Here, you can snorkel over coral reefs or rocky seabeds, giving you a close-up view of marine life. If you prefer something more relaxed, you can try stand-up paddleboarding or paddling in a kayak—both are available during the stop and are suitable even for beginners. The calm Atlantic provides an ideal setting for these activities, and the crew is usually on hand to assist.

Past travelers have noted that “the seabed was surprisingly colorful,” and many appreciated the chance to cool off and swim in the Atlantic’s clear waters. The on-board bar and toilet facilities add comfort to this segment, making it easier to enjoy the water activities without worry.

Lunch On-Board: A Taste of Madeira

Midway through the cruise, a buffet lunch is served on deck. The menu includes meat and fish options, giving a decent selection for most tastes. The buffet isn’t gourmet, but it’s fresh and satisfying after a morning of sightseeing and swimming. Reviewers often mention the generous servings and the convenience of eating on the boat, which saves time and allows you to focus on the scenery.

For the final part of the cruise, you’ll have at least one more chance to refresh in the Atlantic, often swimming or simply relaxing on deck with a drink. The boat’s relaxed atmosphere encourages socializing and enjoying the sun, making it a good choice for families, couples, or groups of friends.

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Practical Details and Tips

Transportation is straightforward—meeting at Funchal Marina, with no hotel pick-up or drop-off included, so plan accordingly. Bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a towel, and swimwear if you intend to swim. A windbreaker is advisable, especially if the breeze picks up.

The tour lasts about nine hours, so wear layers and be prepared for varying weather conditions. The group size tends to be moderate, and the presence of live guides in English and Portuguese helps keep everyone informed and engaged.

Note that the tour may be canceled if there aren’t enough participants or if weather conditions are poor. As safety is a priority, the operator reserves the right to refuse service to intoxicated guests, which aligns with a safety-first approach.

The Value for Travelers

This cruise offers excellent value for those who want a comprehensive day out on Madeira’s coast. It combines scenic views, water activities, and a simple but satisfying meal, all aboard a comfortable vessel. The price is justified by the length of the trip and the variety of experiences onboard.

While some might wish for more extensive land exploration, this tour excels at showcasing Madeira’s coastal character from a different angle—on the water. It’s especially suitable for active travelers who enjoy being in or on the sea, and those looking for a relaxed, scenic day without the hassle of land-based hikes or transportation.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you love sea adventures, scenic vistas, and seafood, this trip fits the bill. It’s perfect for families with older children, couples, or groups of friends seeking a day of light activity and stunning photography. On the other hand, it’s not suitable for those with mobility challenges, pregnant women, or anyone who prefers land-based sightseeing.

This tour offers a good balance of relaxation and discovery—you’ll see some of Madeira’s most dramatic landscapes from the comfort of a boat, punctuated with fun sea activities and a tasty onboard meal. It’s a memorable way to experience Madeira’s volcanic beauty without leaving the coast.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
No, you will need to meet at the Funchal Marina, specifically Loja 9, VMT Madeira.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring comfortable shoes, a towel, sunscreen, and swimwear if you want to swim. A windbreaker can also be helpful.

How long is the tour?
The full experience lasts about 9 hours, including the boat ride, activities, and meal.

Are the water activities suitable for beginners?
Yes, many reviews mention that snorkel, paddleboard, and kayak experiences are suitable for beginners, with crew assistance available.

Is there a bar onboard?
Yes, a bar serves snacks and beverages during the trip, adding to the relaxed atmosphere.

Will I see the stone terraces?
Absolutely. Many terraces are visible from the boat, and their abandoned, vertiginous appearance is a highlight.

What is the buffet lunch like?
It includes meat and fish options, served as a buffet on deck. While not gourmet, it’s satisfying and convenient.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, allowing flexibility.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, but children should be comfortable with boat trips and water activities. Not suitable for very young children or people with mobility issues.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour may be canceled or rescheduled if weather conditions are unsuitable for safe sailing or activities.

Final Thoughts

This Fajãs Route offers a compelling blend of Madeira’s rugged landscape, marine fun, and relaxed dining—all from the comfort of a catamaran. It’s a great way to see the island’s cliffs, terraces, and volcanic colors without the physical exertion of land hikes. The water activities add an interactive element that many travelers enjoy, and the lunch ensures you won’t go hungry during your voyage.

It’s best suited for active travelers, families, or anyone wanting a scenic day on the Atlantic with some fun in the water. If you’re looking for a relatively affordable, scenic, and relaxing way to experience Madeira’s coast, this cruise delivers a memorable slice of the island’s natural beauty.

Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a first-time boat lover, this tour balances spectacular scenery, light adventure, and comfort—a genuine highlight to consider during your Madeira visit.

You can check availability for your dates here: