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Activities in Funchal

Desertas Islands Schooner Cruise + Snorkelling

  • 18 reviews | 281 travellers
    The boat we had was smaller than advertised, there were no explanations in Spanish, and we suffered from rough seas, so we couldn't go to the island or snorkel. Even so, we had a great time thanks to the jumps the boat took and the dolphins we saw at the end of the trip. I would recommend it. Although I would suggest having a backup plan when the sea is rough.
    8 Alfredo Cuevas
  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the service starts
  • Hotel pickup
  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the service starts

Discover biodiversity and rugged landscape with this Desertas Islands Schooner Cruise and snorkelling activity. Walk past the colourful rocks and, if we're lucky, meet the friendly monk seals that live on the beaches.

Discover biodiversity and rugged landscape with this Desertas Islands Schooner Cruise and snorkelling activity. Walk past the colourful rocks and, if we're lucky, meet the friendly monk seals that live on the beaches.

Desertas Islands Schooner Cruise

At the appointed time we'll pick you up at your hotel and board the schooner that will take us to the Desertas Islands. These three islands, Bugio, Deserta Grande and Chão Island, form an important reserve of Madeira's subtropical flora and marine biodiversity. Coloured rocks, steep cliffs, and crystal clear water beaches are some of the natural surprises we'll find on these islands.

As we sail across the Atlantic in a schooner we'll enjoy the calm ocean and contemplate the silhouette of Madeira while we move away from Funchal. On board the boat we'll enjoy a delicious hot meal to get our strength back before going down to visit the main island.

We'll disembark at Deserta Grande to explore the millenary volcanic formations that give this island a spectacularly rugged landscape. Deserta Grande is famous for being a sanctuary for sea birds, which hosts, among other species, several specimens of monk seals. Hopefully we'll get to see some!

During the excursion, you'll be able to take a bath in these waters and, if the sea conditions allow it, practice snorkelling to discover the great diversity of marine life.

After walking along the beaches and cliffs of Deserta Grande we'll return to the schooner and set a course back to Funchal.

View complete description

More Information

Duration

8h 30m.

Language The activity takes place with a guide that speaks in English.

The activity takes place with a guide that speaks in English.

Included

Hotel pick up and drop off.

English speaking guide.

Schooner cruise.

Lunch.

Snorkel equipment.

When to book?

You can book up until 12 hours before the activity as long as there are still places. Book now to guarantee your spot.

Type of voucher

Electronic. Show the voucher on your phone.

Accessibility

Not wheelchair accessible.

Sustainability

All services published on Civitatis are carried out in accordance with our Sustainability Code.

Sustainability Code

Our providers commit to:

  • Provide a safe and satisfying experience.
  • Reduce, reuse, recycle.
  • Incorporate eco-conscious technologies.
  • Uphold fair employment standards.
  • Foster the growth of local communities.
  • Preserve the integrity of local culture.
  • Safeguard both cultural and environmental heritage.
  • Ensure ethical treatment of animals.
  • Operate with honesty and transparency.
  • Encourage sustainable behaviors among customers and staff.

This particular activity contributes as follows:

  • No printing of documentation required.

Pets

Not permitted.

Frequently asked questions

  • Q - Why do this activity with Civitatis?

    A - At Civitatis we guarantee the best quality and prices, click here if you want to know how we select our activities.

  • Q - How to book?

    A - To reserve the activity, choose the date and complete the form on this page. You will receive your confirmation immediately.

  • Q - Is a minimum number of participants required?

    A - This activity requires a minimum of 6 participants. Should this number not be reached, we'll get in touch with you to offer alternatives.

  • Q - Which local supplier will be providing the tour?

    A - Secret Madeira Corporate name: RNAVT 6728 Secret Madeira Tours and Walks Registered Office: Caminho Cova do Til 22 Lombada Sao Martinho Funchal, Funchal, Portugal Tax Identification Number (VAT ID): PT514016990 Contact information: Send an email to the provider o call activityContent_ provider_info_ue

If you have any other questions please contact us.

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