WHAT WE SEE?

snorkeling boat tour madeira island

HIGHLIGHTS

Marine Life of Ponta de São Lourenço

Discover the underwater wonders of Madeira’s protected waters

Located at the easternmost tip of Madeira Island, Ponta de São Lourenço is a protected marine reserve renowned for its crystal-clear waters, volcanic rock formations, and rich biodiversity. When you join our snorkeling tours here, you step into an underwater world full of color, movement, and life.

Common Species You Might See

Fish

  • Ornate Wrasse (Thalassoma pavo) – A brightly colored reef fish with electric blue and green patterns, often swimming close to rocks.
  • Parrotfish (Sparisoma cretense) – Known for their beak-like mouths and vibrant scales, often seen grazing on algae.
  • Damselfish (Chromis limbata) – Small, dark fish often darting in and out of rocky crevices.
  • Bream (Diplodus spp.) – Silver fish commonly found in schools near the shallows.

Ornate wrasse

Invertebrates

  • Sea Urchins – Black spiny echinoderms that cling to the rocky seabed.
  • Sea Stars – Often brightly colored and scattered across sandy patches.
  • Anemones – Delicate, tentacled creatures swaying gently in the currents.

Occasional Visitors

  • Octopus – Masters of camouflage, sometimes spotted changing colors among rocks.
  • Moray Eels – Usually tucked inside crevices, peeking out with just their heads visible.
  • Barracuda – Sleek, fast predators sometimes seen cruising through the deeper water.

A Rare and Special Guest: The Mediterranean Monk Seal

One of the world’s rarest marine mammals, the Mediterranean Monk Seal (Monachus monachus) occasionally visits the protected waters of Ponta de São Lourenço. With fewer than 800 individuals remaining worldwide, sightings are a truly exceptional privilege. These seals are strictly protected under conservation laws, and if you are lucky enough to see one, it is important to keep a respectful distance and avoid disturbing it in any way.

🐾 Did You Know?

  • The Mediterranean Monk Seal is critically endangered.
  • Adults can reach up to 2.4 meters in length and weigh around 300 kg.
  • They are shy and prefer quiet, undisturbed coastlines and caves.
  • Madeira’s Desertas Islands are one of the last safe havens for this species.
Monk Seal

Why Ponta de São Lourenço is Special

This part of Madeira is protected for a reason — it’s a vital habitat for many species and a breeding ground for marine life. The volcanic seabed creates perfect hiding places for small fish and invertebrates, while nutrient-rich currents attract larger species. The protection status ensures that fishing is restricted, helping marine populations thrive.

Best Conditions for Snorkeling

Visibility can exceed 20 meters on a calm day, allowing you to observe the rich underwater scenery in detail. Water temperatures typically range from 18°C in winter to 24°C in summer, making it a year-round snorkeling destination.

Respect the Ocean

We follow strict “look but don’t touch” guidelines to protect the marine environment. Avoid stepping on rocks covered in algae or corals, and never collect shells, fish, or other marine life.