Dolphins and Whales Watching Tour by RIB boat in Funchal

Exciting Dolphin and Whale Watching from Funchal on a RIB Boat

The Dolphins and Whales Watching Tour by RIB boat in Funchal offers an engaging 2.5-hour adventure along Madeira’s stunning southern coastline. Priced at $62.26 per person, this small-group tour is perfect for those eager to see wild dolphins, whales, and even turtles in their natural environment. The tour is notably highly rated, with a perfect score of 5.0 based on 1 review, and is available with mobile tickets, making it easy to organize.

This tour departs from Funchal Marina and features a max group size of 18 travelers, ensuring an intimate experience with plenty of opportunities for close wildlife sightings. While the trip is suitable for most, it’s best suited for those comfortable on a fast, open RIB boat. The option to swim with dolphins, at an additional $20 per participant, adds a memorable, hands-on element—though this is only possible if conditions permit.

Key Points

• Price: $62.26 per person, with an optional $20 add-on for swimming with dolphins
• Duration: Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes
• Departure Point: Funchal Marina in Madeira
• Small groups: Limited to 18 travelers for a personalized experience
• Wildlife: High chances of seeing dolphins, whales, and turtles in their natural habitat
• Private tours: Available for up to 18 guests, ideal for groups or families wanting exclusivity

Departing from Funchal Marina for a Coastal Adventure

The tour begins at XpointMadeiraFunchal Marina, where the small RIB boat awaits to take you on an exhilarating ride. The boat’s design allows for rapid, smooth navigation along Madeira’s coastline, providing both comfort and excitement. As the boat departs from Funchal Bay, it offers a spectacular view of the city, giving an immediate sense of the island’s vibrant setting.

This departure point positions the vessel for a flexible route, depending on wildlife activity and sea conditions. The guide navigates through the waters with the goal of maximizing wildlife sightings, often heading towards the northern tip of the island—an area praised for dolphin encounters. The emphasis on wildlife observation means the route can change unexpectedly, adding a sense of surprise and adventure.

Iconic Coastal Highlights and Wildlife Encounters

During the tour, travelers enjoy a panoramic view of Cabo Girão, one of Madeira’s most famous cliffs. This vantage point, known for its glass skywalk, provides a stunning backdrop for photos and a chance to appreciate Madeira’s dramatic coastal scenery.

Another notable aspect is the pass-by navigation of a historic fishing village. The vessel glides past this charming locale, offering a glimpse of local life and traditional fishing practices. Depending on sea conditions and wildlife activity, this stop may be exchanged with another scenic or wildlife-rich highlight, keeping the experience dynamic.

The main attraction remains the opportunity to see dolphins and whales in their natural environment. The trip’s success depends on wildlife activity, but the high likelihood of sightings makes this tour a rewarding choice for marine life enthusiasts.

The Thrill of a RIB Boat Ride Along Madeira’s Coast

The RIB boat itself is engineered for a fast, lively ride, adding an element of thrill to the trip. We appreciate how the boat’s design allows for close-up wildlife viewing while providing a stable, safe platform. The vessel is equipped with all necessary safety gear, ensuring peace of mind during this high-energy excursion.

The small group size enhances the sense of adventure, allowing for more personalized attention and better chances to observe dolphins and whales without crowds. The speed and maneuverability of the RIB give an exciting edge compared to larger tour boats, making it especially appealing for those who like a more spirited boat ride.

The Optional Swim with Dolphins Add-On

A significant highlight is the swim with dolphins option, available for an extra $20 per person. This add-on is charged on-site in cash only, and it is only possible if conditions permit. When available, this experience allows guests to enter the water and snorkel alongside playful dolphins, creating a truly immersive encounter.

The review mentions a video of snorkeling with dolphins, hinting at how special and memorable this experience can be. However, since the swim depends on wildlife behavior and safety considerations, it’s important to be flexible with expectations.

Meeting Point and Practical Details

The tour starts at XpointMadeiraFunchal Marina, located in São Martinho, close to public transportation options. The meeting time is coordinated with the confirmation received upon booking, making planning straightforward. The activity concludes back at the same point, providing convenience for participants.

With a total duration of around 2 hours and 30 minutes, this tour fits well into a day’s itinerary without feeling rushed. It’s suitable for most travelers, with no mention of strenuous physical requirements, though comfort on a boat and in open water is necessary.

Weather and Cancellation Policies

The tour is weather-dependent, and if conditions are poor, it may be canceled or rescheduled. Customers have the comfort of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, with full refunds provided if canceled before that window. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable, so keeping an eye on the weather forecast is recommended.

The provider, Madeira Divepoint, ensures all fees and taxes are included, simplifying the booking process.

Final Thoughts on the Dolphins and Whales Watching Tour

This small-group RIB boat tour provides an active, engaging way to observe Madeira’s iconic marine wildlife. The high success rate of dolphin sightings paired with the scenic coastal views, including the Cabo Girão cliff, makes it an appealing choice for nature lovers.

The option to swim with dolphins adds a memorable, personal touch, although it’s subject to wildlife activity and weather. The fast-paced RIB ride offers a sense of adventure for those who enjoy a spirited boat trip, while the intimate group ensures personalized attention and better wildlife encounters.

This tour suits travelers seeking an active, wildlife-focused experience with stunning scenery and the chance to get close to the ocean’s playful inhabitants. The affordable price and flexible cancellation options make it a practical pick for most visitors to Funchal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is generally suitable for most travelers, but comfort on an open, fast RIB boat is recommended. Physical ability to handle a boat’s motion is important, especially for younger children.

Can I see dolphins and whales on every trip?
While wildlife sightings depend on sea conditions and animal activity, the tour has a high chance of success, especially with the northern tip of the island often being a frequent spot.

How do I pay for the swim with dolphins add-on?
The $20 fee for swimming with dolphins is paid in cash on-site if the experience is available.

What should I bring for the tour?
Participants should bring comfortable clothing, sun protection, and possibly snorkeling gear if they wish to participate in the swim. The boat provides all necessary safety equipment.

Is parking available at the meeting point?
Parking fees may apply if needed, but the tour location is close to public transportation, making access straightforward.

What happens if the weather cancels the tour?
If canceled due to poor weather, a different date or a full refund will be offered, ensuring no risk in booking.