From Faro: Catamaran Boat Trip to Deserta Island with Stop

4.6 (776 verified reviews)

Before you book

A return ferry ticket, not a tour: a seat each way on Animaris's scheduled Faro to Ilha Deserta catamaran, about 45 minutes each way, with no guide listed.
Board at the Porta Nova pier near the sea gate of Faro's old town, less than five minutes' walk from the marina.
You name your return crossing when you leave Faro, and the operator can change it if there is space. Ask about the last boat back; one guest wished they had chosen an earlier one.
Estaminé, the island's only restaurant, was found closed in mid-October 2025, so book ahead or bring a picnic. Food, drinks, loungers and umbrellas are not included.

About This Experience

A return ferry ticket, not a tour: a seat each way on Animaris's scheduled catamaran from Faro's Porta Nova pier to Ilha Deserta, about 45 minutes each way, with free time ashore and no guide listed.

Highlights

Relax on the remote beaches of Ilha Deserta
Cruise through the channels of Ria Formosa Natural Park by catamaran
Purchase a traditional lunch at an eco-friendly restaurant on Ilha Deserta

What's Included

✓ Round-trip boat tickets
✓ Visit to Ilha Deserta, with free time to relax, explore and stroll the 2-kilometer boardwalk

Not Included

Food and drinks
Beach deck chair and awning

Meeting Point

Board the catamaran at the Porta Nova pier on Rua Comandante Francisco Manuel, near the sea gate in Faro Old Town. Directions: Follow the waterfront around the corner from Faro Marina (close to Hotel Eva and Hotel Faro). The pier is less than 5 minutes on foot from the marina.