Catamaran Trip to the Desertas Islands (Ilhas Desertas)

On 11 September 2026, a catamaran sets sail from Machico for a full day at the Desertas Islands, a remote, uninhabited nature reserve off Madeira's southeast coast. Departure is around 10:00, with the crossing to Deserta Grande taking roughly 1h45–2h, during which dolphins and other cetaceans may be spotted.

Once ashore, the group joins a guided visit to the island, with around three hours to explore, swim and relax before lunch.

The return crossing follows the same route, again with a chance of cetacean sightings, arriving back in Machico around 18:00.

Programme:

~10:00 — Departure from Machico

~1h45–2h crossing to Deserta Grande (possible dolphin/cetacean watching) Guided landing and approx. 3 hours ashore — free time, swimming, lunch

~1h45–2h return crossing (possible cetacean watching)

~18:00 — Arrival back in Machico