Ponta de São Lourenço Boat Tour: Madeira Lighthouse & Caves

The oldest lighthouse in the Madeira Archipelago is only reachable by sea.

The Light House View Tour is a boat tour departing from Marina da Quinta do Lorde that travels through Baía d'Abra and Ponta de São Lourenço toward a 150-year-old lighthouse, the oldest in the Madeira Archipelago. The route passes sea caves, the North Coast, and Ilhéu do Desembarcadouro, with a return stop at Cais do Sardinha for a swim. Tours are led by a marine biologist guide in English or Portuguese; children from age 5 are welcome, and each person receives a glass of Madeira wine.

Step-by-step itinerary

Boat tour to lighthouse and coastline

• Depart from Marina da Quinta do Lorde
• Admire 150-year-old lighthouse
• See Ilhéu do Desembarcadouro and North Coast caves
• Observe unique animals and plants
• Stop at Cais do Sardinha for a swim
• Return to Marina da Quinta do Lorde via Baía d’Abra

The Experience

The boat departs from Marina da Quinta do Lorde and heads northeast along the coast, passing through Baía d'Abra with its network of caves and calm bays only visible from the water. The route takes you to Ponta de São Lourenço, where the 150-year-old lighthouse stands—the oldest in the Madeira Archipelago. Along the way you'll see Ilhéu do Desembarcadouro and the North Coast, with a guide who is trained in marine biology and can point out species of animals and plants found nowhere else in the region.

On the return journey, the boat makes a stop at Cais do Sardinha, where you can swim in the water if you choose. The whole outing runs between 45 minutes and an hour, keeping the pace relaxed enough that you're not rushed through the coastline but focused enough that the day holds together. A glass of Madeira wine is included, served while you're still on the water.

What’s included

The tour includes the boat ride along the coast, a marine biologist guide in English or Portuguese, and one small glass of Madeira wine per person.

Good to know

Easy physical levelNot for pregnant travelers

Operated by Madeira Sea Emotions

Is this one for you?The tour departs from Marina da Quinta do Lorde, so if you're staying in the eastern part of Madeira or have access to a rental car, getting there is straightforward. If you're based elsewhere on the island without a car, you'll need to arrange a taxi or check whether your hotel offers transport to the marina; the boat itself handles the rest of the day once you arrive.

Traveler reviews

5.00★★★★★★★★★★

24 verified traveler reviews

5 ★24

4 ★0

3 ★0

2 ★0

1 ★0

Read all the reviews ›

Top questions

Can I swim during the Ponta de São Lourenço boat tour?

Yes. The boat stops at Cais do Sardinha on the return, where you can take a dip in the water if you want to. Bring a towel or wear something you don't mind getting wet.

What is Ponta de São Lourenço and why is it only reachable by boat?

Ponta de São Lourenço is the northeastern tip of Madeira, a dramatic headland with sea caves and coastal rock formations. The boat route lets you see the cliffs, caves and the 150-year-old lighthouse from the water, angles and details that are not visible from land.

Who leads the tour and what language is it in?

A marine biologist guide leads the tour in English or Portuguese. They can explain the local wildlife and geology you pass along the way.

Is this tour suitable for children?

Yes. Children are welcome from age 5 and up. The tour is suitable for all fitness levels.

What is included in the tour price?

The boat tour itself, the guide, and one small glass of Madeira wine per person are included. You'll need to arrange your own transport to Marina da Quinta do Lorde unless your hotel offers pickup.