Xavelha Ocean Roots 

4.9/5 (3 reviews)
 Marina do Funchal, Funchal, MA, Portugal

Xavelha Ocean Roots 

Funchal, MA, Portugal
25 ft
6
4.9/5 (3 reviews)

Step aboard history and discover Madeira from a truly local perspective.

Xavelha Ocean Roots offers a unique fishing experience aboard an authentic Xavelha, a traditional wooden fishing boat built in 1936 and carefully restored to preserve Madeira’s maritime heritage. Originally used by fishermen from Câmara de Lobos, this remarkable vessel became part of Portugal’s maritime history after completing a seven-day voyage from Madeira to Lisbon for Expo ’98.

Today, Captain Diogo welcomes guests aboard for unforgettable fishing adventures along Madeira’s stunning coastline, sharing his passion for the ocean and the island’s fishing traditions.

Whether you are an experienced angler or discovering fishing for the first time, you will enjoy a relaxed and authentic day at sea aboard one of Madeira’s most iconic traditional boats. Depending on the season and sea conditions, you may have the opportunity to target species such as Grouper, Snapper, Triggerfish, Barracuda, and other local catches.

Fishing techniques may include bottom fishing, trolling, jigging, light tackle fishing, and other methods adapted to the conditions and target species of the day.

Your adventure begins at Marina da Praça do Povo in Funchal. The Xavelha accommodates up to six guests, with fishing trips designed for a maximum of four anglers to ensure comfort and personal attention throughout the experience.

All fishing equipment is provided, including quality rods, reels, and tackle. Complimentary drinks and light snacks are also included, allowing you to relax and enjoy your time at sea.

Families are warmly welcome, and children can enjoy a safe and memorable introduction to Madeira’s fishing traditions. Life jackets are available on board.

At the end of the trip, guests may keep their catch in accordance with local regulations and protected species requirements.

More than a fishing charter, Xavelha Ocean Roots is a journey into Madeira’s maritime heritage aboard a historic vessel.

Step aboard history and discover Madeira from a truly local perspective.

Xavelha Ocean Roots offers a unique fishing experience aboard an authentic Xavelha, a traditional wooden fishing boat built in 1936 and carefully restored to preserve Madeira’s maritime heritage. Originally used by fishermen from Câmara de Lobos, this remarkable vessel became part of Portugal’s maritime history after completing a seven-day voyage from Madeira to Lisbon for Expo ’98.

Today, Captain Diogo welcomes guests aboard for unforgettable fishing adventures along Madeira’s stunning coastline, sharing his passion for the ocean and the island’s fishing traditions.

Whether you are an experienced angler or discovering fishing for the first time, you will enjoy a relaxed and authentic day at sea aboard one of Madeira’s most iconic traditional boats. Depending on the season and sea conditions, you may have the opportunity to target species such as Grouper, Snapper, Triggerfish, Barracuda, and other local catches.

Fishing techniques may include bottom fishing, trolling, jigging, light tackle fishing, and other methods adapted to the conditions and target species of the day.

Your adventure begins at Marina da Praça do Povo in Funchal. The Xavelha accommodates up to six guests, with fishing trips designed for a maximum of four anglers to ensure comfort and personal attention throughout the experience.

All fishing equipment is provided, including quality rods, reels, and tackle. Complimentary drinks and light snacks are also included, allowing you to relax and enjoy your time at sea.

Families are warmly welcome, and children can enjoy a safe and memorable introduction to Madeira’s fishing traditions. Life jackets are available on board.

At the end of the trip, guests may keep their catch in accordance with local regulations and protected species requirements.

More than a fishing charter, Xavelha Ocean Roots is a journey into Madeira’s maritime heritage aboard a historic vessel.

Diogo Nóbrega
Captain
Diogo Nóbrega
14 years of experience
ID & credentials verified
responds within an hour

Trip availability and prices

Trip Date:
Group Size:
Select date to see availability
August 2026
SuMoTuWeThFrSa
Loading...
Number of days
1
Group Size
2 adults • 0 children
Change
Almost there...
4 Hr – Traditional Fishing Escape
In high demand Last booked: 3 days ago
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
4 hour trip multiple starting times (8:00 AM, 2:00 PM)
Barracuda (Great)
Amberjack
Snapper (Red)
Grouper (Red)
+2
US $347
Entire boat: 2 people
4 Hr – Traditional Experience
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
4 hour trip multiple starting times (8:00 AM, 2:00 PM)
Barracuda (Great)
Amberjack
Snapper (Red)
Grouper (Red)
+2
US $520
Entire boat: up to 6 people
7 Hr – Traditional Experience
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
7 hour trip starts at 8:00 AM
Barracuda (Great)
Amberjack
Snapper (Red)
Grouper (Red)
+2
US $809
Entire boat: up to 6 people
There are 3 people looking at this charter.

Customer reviews

Loading...

Rating

4.9
3 reviews
4.7
Boat & equipment
5.0
Captain & crew
5.0
Fishing Experience

Anglers' gallery (4)

All reviews (3)

Frequently mentioned
Loading...Loading...Loading...Loading...Loading...Loading...Loading...Loading...
Showing 13 of 3 reviews
Gareth ROBERTS
Gareth ROBERTS
gb
United Kingdom
Member since 2026
5.0
Verified
New
Lovely crew of three, great traditional boat and fantastic experience!
4 Hr – Traditional Fishing Escape on July 23, 20263 adults1 child

We really enjoyed our fishing trip. The crew did everything possible to make it as enjoyable as possible. They really did do everything they could - from dolphin/whale spotting, to great fishing techniques / knowledge, to providing a range of drinks and local traditional foods. We could have spent the whole day on the boat. Would highly recommend. Book the trip.

Reported catch:
Red Snapper
Jan Salaets
Jan Salaets
Repeat angler
be
Belgium
Member since 2025
3 trips
5.0
Verified
Great authentic fishing trip!
4 Hr – Traditional Experience - 2:00 PM on July 3, 20265 adults

Very nice family fishing trip. Nice authentic an colorfull boat. Crew very kind, helpfull and experienced. Top coastal views from the boat. Good action, caught about 20 smaller and tasty fish. Would reccomend if you are are looking for a relaxed fishing and nature experiance from Funchal area.

Reported catch:
Lane Snapper
Atlantic Mackerel
Red Snapper
Diogo Nóbrega
Response from Captain

Thank you so much for your review! We're really happy to hear that you and your family enjoyed the fishing trip, the coastal views, and the experience aboard our traditional boat. It was a pleasure having you with us and what a great day of fishing!

Maciej Muchowicz
Maciej Muchowicz
Repeat angler
pl
Poland
Member since 2024
6 trips
4.7
Verified
Cery nice morning trip.
4 Hr – Traditional Experience on July 3, 20261 adult1 child

Very friendly and professional crew. We had a great morning and we caught some fish. Nice experience I can recommend.

FAQs about Xavelha Ocean Roots

Xavelha Ocean Roots offers the following trips to customers:
  • €150 per person - 4 Hr – Traditional Fishing Escape (4 hours)
  • €150 per person - 4 Hr – Traditional Fishing Escape - 2:00 PM (4 hours)
  • €450 per group - 4 Hr – Traditional Experience (4 hours)
  • €450 per group - 4 Hr – Traditional Experience - 2:00 PM (4 hours)
  • €700 per group - 7 Hr – Traditional Experience (7 hours)
When you book a trip with Xavelha Ocean Roots, you can expect the following amenity onboard:
  • Ice box
Trips booked with Xavelha Ocean Roots include:
  • Rods, reels & tackle
  • Snacks (We don't serve snacks, we serve tradition. Weather permitting, every trip includes a stop in the bay of Câmara de Lobos for an authentic black scabbardfish sandwich, eaten the fishermen's way, with stories of the village's centuries-old fishing life told )
  • Drinks (Every drink on board is local: madeiran beer, island fruit juices, spring water, and regional wine. Because authenticity shouldn't stop at the fishing rod.)
Xavelha Ocean Roots offers the following type of fishing:
  • Nearshore fishing
Xavelha Ocean Roots offers the following fishing techniques:
  • Light tackle
  • Heavy tackle
  • Bottom fishing
  • Jigging
  • Drift fishing
  • Deep sea fishing
Top targeted fish species with Xavelha Ocean Roots include:
  • Amberjack
  • Barracuda (European)
  • Grouper (Gag)
  • Grouper (Goliath)
  • Grouper (Red)
  • Mackerel (Atlantic)
  • Snapper (Lane)
  • Snapper (Mangrove)
  • Snapper (Red)
  • Yellowtail Amberjack

Your captain

Diogo Nóbrega
Diogo Nóbrega
Diogo Nóbrega

Funchal, Madeira, Portugal

ID & license verified
3 Customer reviews
Typical response within an hour
Member since June 2026

Benefit from Captain Diogo’s extensive knowledge of Madeira’s local fishing grounds and enjoy a memorable fishing trip in Funchal. Using techniques such as bottom fishing, drifting, jigging, and more, you’ll have the opportunity to target species like Atlantic Mackerel, Goliath Grouper, and Gag Grouper. The best way to learn is to join him on the water and experience Madeira’s fishing traditions firsthand.

ID & license verified
3 Customer reviews
Typical response within an hour
Member since June 2026

Benefit from Captain Diogo’s extensive knowledge of Madeira’s local fishing grounds and enjoy a memorable fishing trip in Funchal. Using techniques such as bottom fishing, drifting, jigging, and more, you’ll have the opportunity to target species like Atlantic Mackerel, Goliath Grouper, and Gag Grouper. The best way to learn is to join him on the water and experience Madeira’s fishing traditions firsthand.

The fish you can target

Amberjack
Amberjack
European Barracuda
European Barracuda
Gag Grouper
Gag Grouper
Goliath Grouper
Goliath Grouper
Red Grouper
Red Grouper
Atlantic Mackerel
Atlantic Mackerel
Lane Snapper
Lane Snapper
Mangrove Snapper
Mangrove Snapper
Red Snapper
Red Snapper
Yellowtail Amberjack
Yellowtail Amberjack
Amberjack
Amberjack
European Barracuda
European Barracuda
Gag Grouper
Gag Grouper
Goliath Grouper
Goliath Grouper
Red Grouper
Red Grouper

Real catches by this captain

  • Loading...
  • Loading...
  • Loading...
  • Loading...

What is the boat like?

Boat image
Boat category
Other
Capacity
6 persons
Boat length
25 ft
Year built
1936
Restored in
2018
Boat manufacturer
Custom Traditional Boat
Boat type
Sailing
Engine model
Solé Diesel
Powered by
1 x 27HP
Max cruising speed
6 knots

What kind of fishing will you do?

Nearshore Fishing

Which fishing techniques you can try

Light Tackle
Heavy Tackle
Bottom Fishing
Jigging
Drift Fishing
Deep Sea Fishing

Which amenities are available onboard

Ice box
What's included in the trip price
Rods, reels & tackle
Snacks
We don't serve snacks, we serve tradition. Weather permitting, every trip includes a stop in the bay of Câmara de Lobos for an authentic black scabbardfish sandwich, eaten the fishermen's way, with stories of the village's centuries-old fishing life told
Drinks
Every drink on board is local: madeiran beer, island fruit juices, spring water, and regional wine. Because authenticity shouldn't stop at the fishing rod.

How cancellations work

Free cancellation up to 3 days prior to trip

You can cancel or modify your booking up to 3 days before the trip date, free of charge. If you cancel or modify your booking later, or fail to show up, you'll forfeit 100% of what you've paid.

More details

What the listing policies are

Pickup not included

Transfer to/from departure site is not included in trip rates.

Child friendly
Children of all ages are welcome aboard! With life jackets provided and a family-friendly pace, our trips are the perfect way for kids to discover Madeira's fishing traditions, safely and unforgettably.

How you can pay

Book with 10% deposit, pay rest to captain

When the captain confirms your trip, FishingBooker charges your credit card a 10% deposit to guarantee your reservation.

The remaining balance is to be paid directly to the charter operator on or prior to your trip date in one of the following payment methods:

 Cash

 Visa

 Mastercard

 American Express

When paying the remaining balance with a credit card, an additional 1.5% charge will apply.

Compare similar fishing charters

Current
Xavelha Ocean Roots
Xavelha Ocean Roots
4.9
(3)
25 ft
Group size 1 - 6
1 - 6
Fish 1
Fish 2
+8
4 hour trip • 6 persons
US $520