Madeira Ocean Challenge

Located in the heart of the Atlantic Ocean, Madeira Island, has been awarded “Best Island Destination” in Europe and the World on numerous occasions. The island dazzles with an incredible colour palette and natural beauty that captivates the senses of all who visit.

This “Pearl of the Atlantic” (as it is also known) is an undeniable invitation to nature lovers, offering a unique setting of lush subtropical mountains that contrast with the deep blue of the Atlantic.

For Sea Canoeing and Surfski enthusiasts in particular, Madeira Island is a wildlife paradise. The crystal clear oceans provide ideal conditions for practicing these sports. From serene sea views to challenging coastal waves, the diversity of maritime conditions satisfies both beginners and the more experienced. Glide through the waters framed by imposing cliffs, explore secret caves and be enchanted by the unique marine biodiversity.

The warm waters of the island of Madeira are the home to an abundance of aquatic species, such as dolphins, whales and turtles, offering an exciting spectacle for marine life lovers! While on the ocean, it is possible to witness the elegance of these giants of the sea, creating memories that will last forever.

The region, has also staged the European and World Championships in various sports, such as underwater diving, due to its richness in endemic wildlife species. Among its natural treasures, the sea lion “Monachus monachus” stands

out, a species that still faces the threat of extinction, but which finds refuge in Atlantic waters, with the region being one of the last strongholds for this species.

The Madeira Island archipelago is made up of two distinct groups of islands, namely Madeira Island, Porto Santo Island, the Desertas Islands and the Selvagens Islands, the latter located further south. With a rich history dating back 600 years, the island of Madeira is a treasure trove of traditions and culture. Its neighbouring island of Porto Santo was discovered by intrepid Portuguese navigators in 1418, followed by the discovery of the island of Madeira the following year.

These archipelagos not only offer a stunning setting for sporting activities such as sea kayaking and underwater diving, but they are also home to unique biological diversity. The commitment of the Portuguese Canoeing Federation and the Madeira Regional Canoeing Association to hold competitions in these waters highlights the importance of preserving and enhancing the natural heritage of this region. At the same time, awareness for the preservation of the native sea lion and other threatened species highlights the collective responsibility in protecting the marine and terrestrial environment of these Atlantic islands. In fact, Madeira has the largest marine area in Europe with total protection, with some areas of the coast of Madeira island classified as a natural reserve and the Selvagens islands with total protection.

In addition to the exciting water activities, Madeira captivates with its breathtaking trails, which “tear through” lush forests, such as its “Levadas” - a candidate for UNESCO World Cultural Heritage - which go deep into the Laurissilva Forest. In fact, the island of Madeira is a proud guardian of this environmental heritage of inestimable importance, as the Laurissilva forest, which is around 20 million years old, dates back to the Miocene and Pliocene periods of the Tertiary Era. This humid and subtropical “living fossil”, is mainly composed of species endemic to Macaronesia. It is a vast ecosystem that houses a diverse fauna and flora, where trees stand out, many of them centuries-old, from the Lauraceae family (to which the Laurissilva forest owes its name). Considered by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in 1999, the Laurissilva forest is a unique natural treasure. Walk along the paths and levadas that cross it and enjoy the privilege of connecting to this green spot in the middle of the Ocean.

After a day of adventure, discover the local cuisine much appreciated by tourists, as traditional flavours mix with contemporary influences from an island region with over 600 years of history to explore. Explore the island of Madeira, where nature merges with the excitement of ocean Canoeing, Surfskiing and whale watching. Discover a paradise that celebrates the harmony between man and nature, providing a unique experience inthe heart of the Atlantic.