Top-Rated Desertas Island Tours from Funchal

Prices for the options we compare across booking platforms typically range from $80 to $117, with a median price of $105. While you can find some budget-friendly choices starting around $47 and premium private experiences up to $2,618, most travellers spend within that core band. The wide spread reflects differences in group size, vessel type, and included amenities like meals or hotel transfers.

Most excursions last between 2.9 and 9.7 hours, with a median duration of 8.2 hours. Because the majority of options are full-day cruises or sailing trips rather than quick round-trips, you should plan for a significant portion of your day. Shorter half-day tours exist but represent a smaller share of the available listings.

Yes. Among the categories we compare, Adventure tours stand out as a strong value pick. They average a rating of 3.92 stars while costing around $86, which is below the overall median price yet rated higher than the general average of 3.78 stars. If you want an active experience without paying a premium, these tend to offer the best balance of cost and quality.

The vast majority of options focus on Nature (100% of listings), with many also highlighting Wildlife (38%) and Adventure (50%). In terms of activity type, Cruise and Sailing make up the largest share at 75%, followed by dedicated Boat Tours and Trips. Most boats get you around via standard vessels, though about 12% of options include Kayaking as part of the itinerary.

Inclusions vary significantly depending on whether you book a basic ticket or a full-service excursion. Roughly half of the options we compare (44%) include a guide, and another 44% provide meals. About a third (31%) supply necessary equipment, while fewer than one-fifth (19%) include drinks. Hotel pickup and drop-off is less common, appearing in only 12% of the listings.

Guides and commentary are available in 6 languages: English, Portuguese, Italian, Spanish, German, and French. Since the options we compare span multiple booking platforms, language availability can vary by specific operator and date. It is worth checking the details of your chosen listing if you require a language other than English or Portuguese.

With 543 pooled reviews across the platforms we track, the sentiment is overwhelmingly positive. Reviewers frequently describe the trip as a nice experience and fabulous, with dolphin schools being a standout highlight mentioned repeatedly. While the average rating sits at 3.78 stars, the consistency of praise suggests that even standard tours deliver a memorable wildlife encounter.

Take the RodoBus or a taxi. The bus is affordable and drops you near the old town.

Yes, the local tap water is safe and potable for visitors without any issues.

Renting a car is essential. Public transport is limited there, so driving offers freedom.