Xavelha boat tour: stories from the sea in Câmara de Lobos
This Xavelha boat tour in Madeira invites you to discover the island from its most ever-present element: the sea. On board this traditional wooden vessel, once used in the fishing of the iconic black scabbardfish, the journey unfolds amid the scenic beauty of Madeira’s south coast and the island’s deeply rooted maritime tradition.
Departing from Funchal, the cruise allows you to enjoy sweeping views of the coastline, the deep blue of the Atlantic, dramatic cliffs and small pebble beaches. Along the way, the sea takes on the role of a storyteller, revealing tales deeply rooted in the identity of this archipelago suspended in the Atlantic.
On arriving in Câmara de Lobos, one of Madeira’s most emblematic fishing villages, you will have time to leisurely explore the harbour and its picturesque streets. It is the perfect setting to whet your appetite before sitting down to savour Madeiran flavours closely tied to the island’s fishing traditions.
Book your experience now!
This Xavelha boat trip is an invitation to discover Madeira from the Atlantic and to experience, through the flavours of Câmara de Lobos, an identity shaped by fishing traditions. Book your spot and enjoy a unique experience, with the mark of excellence from Food on Foot!
Flavours and Stories from a Madeiran Fishing Village
In Câmara de Lobos, the connection to the sea is a way of life. The traditional boats lined up along the bay, as well as the stories passed down through generations are living proof of this. The experience you will enjoy at the table reflects that very identity.
Depending on the season, the tasting may include products such as, black scabbardfish, tuna or limpets, ingredients deeply tied to local culture and the community’s daily relationship with the ocean. One of the most memorable moments of this experience, however, is undoubtedly the tasting of poncha or Nikita, two drinks that hold a central place in the social life of the village:
Poncha, originally created by local fishermen, combines sugarcane spirit, fresh citrus juice, and honey. Traditionally prepared to warm the body and lift the spirits after long days at sea, it remains one of Madeira’s most enduring symbols.
Nikita, on the other hand, emerged in Câmara de Lobos in the 1980s. Inspired by Elton John’s song of the same name, its distinctive pineapple flavour quickly won over locals and visitors alike with its refreshing, indulgent character.
After this moment of tasting and sharing, the experience concludes with a return by sea to Funchal, a roughly one-hour journey back to the Marina, the starting point of this unforgettable Xavelha boat trip.
From our gallery
Landscapes that linger in the memory, flavours made for sharing and traditions passed down through generations: dive into the photo album of Food on Foot experiences!
Xavelha Boat Tour: useful information
When does it happen?
Tuesday at 11am
Duration
4 hours
Meeting Point
Funchal Marina, Praça do Povo
Number of participants
Maximum: 8 people
Price
139€ per person
What is included in this maritime and gastronomic experience?
The Food on Foot Xavelha boat trip has been designed to offer an authentic immersion into Madeira’s cultural roots, combining traditional sailing, local discovery and tasting moments closely connected to the ocean. The experience includes:
A scenic one-hour journey from Funchal to Câmara de Lobos and back aboard a traditional wooden vessel (Xavelha boat).
Sailing along Madeira’s south coast, with sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean, cliffs and pebble beaches.
A gastronomic and cultural itinerary in Câmara de Lobos with time to explore the harbour and the village streets.
Tasting of seasonal fresh fish, accompaniments and wine or other beverage.
Sampling of poncha or nikita.
This is an experience designed to reveal Madeira through both sea and table, where flavours and stories come together to provide a genuine encounter with the island’s fishing heritage.
Tour Location
Located on Madeira’s south coast, Câmara de Lobos is one of the island’s most iconic fishing villages. Its natural bay, sheltered by towering cliffs, still hosts traditional boats and a way of life deeply connected to the sea and the shared enjoyment of food at the table.
Gallery
Landscapes that linger in the memory, flavours made for sharing and traditions passed down through generations: dive into the photo album of Food on Foot experiences!
