A boat trip in Madeira allows you to see the island from a completely different perspective. From the water, you can enjoy beautiful views of the coastline, towering cliffs, small bays, and the Atlantic Ocean.
A private boat trip is especially suitable for couples, families, and groups of friends. You can spend time with your own group, enjoy the ocean, go swimming or snorkeling, or simply relax on board and admire the Madeira coastline from the water.
If you are planning a boat trip in Madeira for the first time, you will usually have several questions before your trip. What should you bring? What should you wear? Do you need a sweater? Can you go swimming? What should you do if you want to take underwater videos? Do you need to bring food and drinks?
In this article, the MADEIRA CRUISES team explains how to prepare for a boat trip and what to keep in mind before heading out onto the ocean.
What to Bring on a Boat Trip
You do not need to bring many things for a boat trip. Most of what you need is already provided by our team, so you will not have to pack a large bag.
We recommend bringing:
- sunscreen;
- sunglasses;
- a hat or other headwear;
- swimwear;
- a towel if you plan to swim;
- a light sweater or windbreaker;
- comfortable clothing;
- a phone in a waterproof case if you plan to film while swimming or snorkeling;
- any personal medication you may need.
You do not have to bring water or snacks with you. Snacks and drinks are already included in our trips.
If you have any special food or drink preferences, please let us know when booking. This will allow the MADEIRA CRUISES team to prepare a suitable option for your trip.
If necessary, you can also bring your own food, provided this is compatible with the format of your trip.
Please note that bringing your own alcoholic beverages on board is prohibited.
Sunscreen
You should definitely bring sunscreen, even if it does not feel particularly hot on the day of your trip.
On the water, sunlight reflects off the surface of the ocean, so your skin may receive more sun exposure than you expect.
It is best to apply sunscreen before boarding the boat and bring it with you so that you can reapply it during the trip if necessary.
Pay particular attention to your face, shoulders, neck, and legs.
Sunglasses
Sunglasses are useful in practically any sunny weather.
They protect your eyes from bright light and reflections from the water. For a boat trip, it is best to choose a comfortable pair that stays securely on your face while the boat is moving.
If your sunglasses are particularly valuable to you, you can use a special strap. On the water, this is a simple but useful accessory.
Headwear
A cap, bucket hat, or lightweight hat can help protect your head from the sun.
At the same time, keep the wind in mind. If your headwear is lightweight, make sure it is secured properly so that it does not blow into the ocean while the boat is moving.
Swimwear and Towel
If you plan to swim during the trip, it is best to put on your swimwear beforehand.
Changing clothes on a boat is not always convenient, so it is much easier to start your trip already wearing suitable clothing.
Towels are not provided on board, so be sure to bring your own if you plan to swim or snorkel.
After swimming, you will be able to dry off and change into dry clothes comfortably.
How to Protect Your Phone While Swimming
If you plan to swim during the trip and want to capture the moment in photos or videos, it is a good idea to protect your phone from water in advance.
A waterproof smartphone case is a convenient solution. In Madeira, you can purchase one, for example, at Decathlon. Suitable options may cost around €10.
Before buying one, make sure that the case is compatible with your phone model and designed for use in water.
This accessory is especially useful if you want to film underwater while snorkeling. You can capture Madeira's underwater world, fish, and other moments while swimming without risking getting your smartphone wet.
Always check that the case is watertight and properly sealed before using it.
Even a good waterproof case requires careful handling.
Do You Need a Sweater on a Boat?
Even in summer, a light sweater or windbreaker can be very useful.
It may be warm and sunny on land, but when the boat is moving, you will experience a headwind. As a result, the temperature may feel cooler.
An extra layer of clothing is especially useful during morning and evening trips.
The ideal outfit for a boat trip is simple: swimwear, a T-shirt, and a light sweater or windbreaker.
If you get warm, you can simply take off the extra layer.
What to Wear on a Boat Trip
The main rule when choosing clothing for a boat trip in Madeira is comfort.
Good options include:
- a T-shirt;
- a lightweight shirt;
- shorts;
- lightweight trousers;
- a loose-fitting dress;
- swimwear;
- a sweater or windbreaker.
Footwear also matters. High heels are not the most practical choice for a boat. It is much more comfortable to wear shoes that fit securely and have non-slip soles.
If you have any questions about clothing or footwear, you can ask the MADEIRA CRUISES team in advance when booking.
Can You Swim During a Boat Trip in Madeira?
A swimming stop may be included during the trip if weather conditions and ocean conditions allow it.
Madeira is located in the Atlantic Ocean, so conditions on the water can change. The captain decides whether and where it is possible to stop, taking safety and the current conditions into account.
If you would like to swim or snorkel, let us know when booking. This will help the MADEIRA CRUISES team take your preferences into account when organizing the trip.
For snorkeling, you can bring a waterproof phone case with you. This will allow you to take underwater photos and videos and preserve your memories of exploring Madeira's underwater world.
What to Do If You Get Seasick
Seasickness can occur even in people who normally tolerate travel well.
If you know that you may get seasick, it is best to inform the MADEIRA CRUISES team before the trip begins.
Before the trip, it is advisable to:
- avoid overeating;
- avoid going out to sea on a completely empty stomach;
- drink enough water;
- avoid large amounts of alcohol;
- stay in the fresh air;
- look at the horizon.
If you normally need medication for motion sickness, it is best to discuss its use with your doctor in advance.
What to Bring for Photography and Video
Madeira is especially beautiful when viewed from the ocean.
From the boat, you can take photos of the coastline, cliffs, bays, and the island itself from an unusual perspective.
Therefore, a smartphone or camera will definitely come in handy.
If you want to take photos while swimming or snorkeling, make sure to protect your phone from water in advance.
A simple waterproof case will allow you to use your smartphone while swimming and take underwater photos.
In Madeira, you can find such cases in stores including Decathlon, where a suitable option may cost around €10 or less.
Boat Trips with Children
A boat trip can be an exciting part of a family holiday in Madeira.
Before booking, let us know the children's ages so that we can take the specifics of your trip into account.
For a child, you should prepare:
- sunscreen;
- a hat or other headwear;
- swimwear;
- a towel;
- dry clothes;
- a light sweater;
- any necessary personal medication.
The MADEIRA CRUISES team provides life jackets for children, so you do not need to purchase them separately.
Passenger safety is one of our main priorities during the trip.
What to Bring on a Private Boat Trip for a Couple
A private boat trip is suitable not only as a regular excursion.
Boat trips are often chosen for dates, anniversaries, birthdays, marriage proposals, or other important occasions.
When booking, you can discuss in advance:
- departure time;
- duration;
- route;
- the possibility of swimming;
- drinks;
- snacks;
- special requests.
If you are planning a marriage proposal or celebrating an important date, let our team know in advance.
We will be happy to discuss the details and arrange a trip format that is suitable for your special occasion.
Where Does the Boat Trip Depart from in Madeira?
The main departure point for MADEIRA CRUISES is located at Calheta Marina.
Calheta is located on the southwest coast of Madeira and is a convenient starting point for a boat trip.
Before the trip, we provide guests with all the necessary information about the meeting point and time.
If you are staying in Funchal and would like to depart from there, MADEIRA CRUISES can also arrange a special booking with departure from Funchal by prior agreement.
This option must be arranged in advance when booking.
What Can You See During the Trip?
The route depends on the duration of the trip, weather conditions, and the selected format.
From the water, you can enjoy views of Madeira's coastline, towering cliffs, bays, and small coastal areas.
During the trip, you can enjoy the ocean, go swimming, and, when conditions are suitable, go snorkeling.
If you would like to see marine life, it is worth bringing a waterproof phone case. It will allow you to take photos and videos while snorkeling.
Madeira is also known for opportunities to observe marine animals. If you would like to see dolphins or other inhabitants of the Atlantic, let us know when booking.
However, it is important to understand that sightings of wild animals cannot be guaranteed. This is their natural environment, and their behavior depends on conditions in the ocean.
Private Boat Trip or Group Excursion?
One of the main advantages of a private boat trip is its individual format.
You travel on the boat with your own group, so the trip can be planned according to your preferences.
This format is suitable for:
- couples;
- families;
- groups of friends;
- small celebrations;
- romantic trips;
- special occasions.
When booking a private trip, you can discuss the duration, format of the trip, food and drink preferences, swimming, and other details in advance.
The MADEIRA CRUISES team will do its best to accommodate your preferences and prepare the trip so that all you have to do is enjoy the ocean and relax.
Food and Drinks on Board
You do not need to bring water or snacks with you.
Snacks and drinks are already included in MADEIRA CRUISES trips, so we will take care of the basic refreshments during your trip.
If you have any special food or drink preferences, please let us know when booking.
For example, if you have specific preferences or would like to prepare something special for a romantic trip or celebration, it is better to let us know in advance.
This will allow our team to prepare a suitable option.
If necessary, you can also bring your own food.
However, bringing your own alcoholic beverages on board is prohibited.
What to Clarify Before Booking a Boat Trip
Before your trip, it is useful to discuss several details in advance.
Where Does the Boat Depart From?
The main departure point is located at Calheta Marina.
If you need to depart from Funchal, a special arrangement can be made by prior agreement.
How Long Does the Trip Last?
The duration depends on the option you choose. When booking, the MADEIRA CRUISES team will tell you about the available formats.
What Is Included in the Price?
Snacks and drinks are already included in our trips.
Towels are not provided, so if you plan to swim, you need to bring your own.
Can We Swim?
Swimming depends on the weather conditions, ocean conditions, and the captain's decision.
If swimming or snorkeling is an important part of your trip, please let us know in advance.
Can We Bring Our Own Food?
Yes. If necessary, you can bring your own food.
If you have any special food or drink preferences, it is better to let us know when booking so that our team can prepare a suitable option.
Can We Bring Alcohol?
Bringing your own alcoholic beverages on board is prohibited.
What Happens in Bad Weather?
Guest safety is our top priority.
If weather or sea conditions do not allow the trip to take place, MADEIRA CRUISES will offer to reschedule it for another day.
We understand that holidays in Madeira are limited in time. If rescheduling is not possible and the trip cannot take place due to weather conditions, we will provide a full refund of the booking amount.
How to Prepare for Your Boat Trip the Day Before
The day before your trip, check the departure time and prepare the necessary items.
Pre-Trip Checklist
Bring with you:
☐ sunscreen
☐ sunglasses
☐ hat or other headwear
☐ swimwear
☐ towel
☐ light sweater or windbreaker
☐ comfortable clothing
☐ waterproof phone case
☐ necessary medication
If you plan to snorkel:
☐ waterproof phone case
☐ fully charged phone
You do not need to bring water or snacks; they are already included in our trips.
If you have any special food or drink requests, please let us know in advance.
What You Should Not Bring on the Boat
Bringing too many things can simply create unnecessary inconvenience.
There is no need to bring a large suitcase, several pairs of shoes, or lots of clothing.
It is also better to leave expensive jewelry and other valuable items at your hotel.
If you bring electronic devices, keep in mind that splashes are possible on the water.
It is best to protect your phone and camera from moisture in advance.
We would also like to remind you that bringing your own alcoholic beverages on board is not permitted.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I bring on a boat trip in Madeira?
We recommend bringing sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, a towel, a light sweater, and comfortable clothing.
If you plan to take photos while swimming or snorkeling, a waterproof phone case will be useful.
Do I need to bring water and food?
No. Snacks and drinks are already included in MADEIRA CRUISES trips.
If you have any special food or drink preferences, please let us know when booking. If necessary, you can also bring your own food.
Can I bring alcohol on the boat?
Bringing your own alcoholic beverages on board is prohibited.
Are towels provided?
No. If you plan to swim or snorkel, you need to bring your own towel.
Can I swim during the boat trip?
Swimming depends on weather conditions, ocean conditions, and the captain's decision.
Can I go snorkeling?
If conditions allow, you can go snorkeling during the trip. For underwater photography, it is convenient to purchase a waterproof phone case in advance.
Where can I buy a waterproof phone case in Madeira?
One option is Decathlon. Suitable waterproof cases may cost around €10.
Are there life jackets for children?
Yes. The MADEIRA CRUISES team has life jackets for children.
Where does the trip depart from?
The main departure point is located at Calheta Marina.
By prior agreement, it is also possible to arrange a special booking with departure from Funchal.
What happens if the weather does not allow the boat to go out to sea?
If weather conditions do not allow the trip to take place safely, we will offer to reschedule it for another day.
If rescheduling is not possible because of the limited time of your holiday and the trip cannot take place, MADEIRA CRUISES will provide a full refund of the booking amount.
Can I book a private boat trip?
Yes. MADEIRA CRUISES organizes private boat trips in Madeira for couples, families, and groups of friends.
When booking, you can discuss the trip format, route preferences, swimming, snorkeling, food, and drinks in advance.
Prepare for Your Trip and Enjoy Madeira from the Ocean
You do not need to bring many things for a boat trip.
All you need is sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, a towel, and light clothing. If you plan to swim and want to take underwater photos or videos, purchase a waterproof phone case in advance.
You do not need to worry about water and snacks. They are already included in MADEIRA CRUISES trips.
If you have any special food or drink preferences, please let us know when booking. Our team will prepare a suitable option in advance.
The main departure point is located at Calheta Marina. If it is more convenient for you to depart from Funchal, a special booking can be arranged by prior agreement.
And then all that is left is to head out onto the Atlantic Ocean, go swimming, enjoy snorkeling, take photos, and discover Madeira's coastline from the water.