Funchal Half and Full Day Private Sailboat Tour

Explore Madeira’s Coast on a Private Sailboat with Whale and Dolphin Sightings

The Funchal Half and Full Day Private Sailboat Tour offers a personalized way to see Madeira’s stunning south coast. For $676.49 per group, up to 6 people can enjoy about 4 hours of sailing, exploring both east and west sections of the coastline. Departing from Marina do Funchal, this tour provides intimate access to private beaches only reachable by sea, along with frequent sightings of whales and dolphins.

This private boat experience is perfect for those who want a flexible, relaxed day on the water. Travelers often book it about 35 days in advance, emphasizing its popularity. Whether you choose the half-day or full-day option, the tour balances scenic cruising with opportunities to swim in mild Atlantic waters and enjoy a delicious meal — either on board or at a secret beach restaurant.

While the tour offers many unique highlights, it is best suited for those who appreciate quiet, personalized experiences and are comfortable with a 4-hour boat trip. It’s designed for most travelers, including service animals, making it an accessible and enjoyable day out in Madeira.

Key Points

• Private, customizable sailing experiences for up to 6 people
• Frequent whale and dolphin sightings during the tour
• Options for lunch on board or at Fajã dos Padres beach restaurant
• Accessible with near public transportation and service animals allowed
• Perfect for swimming, relaxing, and exploring private beaches
• Book about 35 days in advance for best availability

Starting at the Funchal Marina with a Personalized Private Experience

The tour begins at Marina do Funchal, located in São Martinho. From this central spot, the boat departs into the waters of Madeira’s south coast. Because this is a private activity, only your group joins the experience, allowing for a flexible, tailored itinerary. The mobile ticket makes for easy access, and the 4-hour duration ensures plenty of time on the water without feeling rushed.

The departure point’s proximity to public transportation makes it a convenient meeting spot. The tour ends back at Marina do Funchal, completing a seamless experience on the water. The flexibility of the schedule means you can choose to extend your day with the full-length option or opt for a shorter half-day cruise.

Discover Private Beaches Accessible Only by Sea

One of the standout features of this tour is the chance to visit private beaches only reachable by boat. The Fajã dos Padres beach is a notable stop, where you can decide to enjoy a meal at their hidden restaurant or have lunch served on the boat. The restaurant itself is only accessible by boat or cable car, making it a special spot for dining.

This beach’s exclusivity adds to the feeling of discovering secret corners of Madeira. The tour’s flexibility allows the guide to include or skip stops based on weather and group preference, ensuring a personalized experience of the coast’s best hidden spots.

Frequent Whale and Dolphin Sightings in Mild Atlantic Waters

A major highlight of this sailboat tour is the regular sightings of whales and dolphins. The waters around Madeira are known for their marine life, and the tour crew actively looks out for these majestic creatures. The Atlantic Ocean here features mild temperatures year-round, making swimming safe and enjoyable for most of the year.

The chance to view whales and dolphins from the boat enhances the trip’s appeal. It’s a real treat for wildlife enthusiasts and adds a sense of wonder to the scenic cruise along the coast. The crew’s expertise helps maximize sightings, making every trip potentially memorable for marine life encounters.

Swimming and Water Activities in the Atlantic

Along With sightseeing, this tour offers plenty of opportunities to swim in the Atlantic Ocean. The waters are described as mild year-round, which suits travelers seeking a refreshing dip during their cruise. The boat’s crew can assist with swimming equipment, ensuring safety and fun for participants.

Swimming in the Atlantic allows you to experience the cool, clear waters of Madeira firsthand. The tour’s flexible approach means you can spend as much time as you like in the water or simply relax on the deck and soak up the views.

Optional Onboard Lunch or Dining at Fajã dos Padres Beach

A notable feature of this tour is the option for lunch. Guests can choose to have a meal on board, prepared by the crew, or visit the exclusive Fajã dos Padres beach restaurant. This restaurant is only accessible via boat or cable car, adding an extra touch of adventure to the dining experience.

The lunch options cater to those wanting to combine their seafood, local dishes, or snacks with a scenic coastal view. The flexibility to enjoy lunch at the beach or on the boat allows for a tailored experience, whether you prefer a relaxed meal in a quiet setting or a quick snack on deck.

The Expertise and Friendliness of Guides João and Luís

Feedback highlights the knowledgeable guides on this tour, especially João and Luís. They are praised for their kindness, local recommendations, and ability to enhance the trip’s enjoyment. Their friendly attitude and local expertise help create a warm, welcoming atmosphere onboard.

The crew’s attentiveness extends to serving snacks and making sure everyone is comfortable and engaged. Their passion for Madeira shines through, helping guests feel more connected to the scenery and marine life.

Booking and Cancellation Policies for Flexibility

The tour offers free cancellation, allowing changes or cancellations up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. If weather conditions are poor, the tour can be rescheduled or refunded in full. This policy provides peace of mind when planning your trip, especially in a region where weather can be unpredictable.

Since most travelers book about 35 days in advance, securing a spot early is recommended to ensure availability, especially during peak seasons or holidays.

Comparing This Tour to Other Madeira Experiences

This private sailing tour stands out for its personalized approach, flexible itinerary, and access to hidden beaches. Unlike larger group excursions, it offers a more intimate experience with a focus on marine life and scenic cruising.

While other tours may focus on whale watching or land-based attractions, this experience combines wildlife sightings, swimming, and dining options, making it versatile for different interests. Its high satisfaction ratings (5.0/5) and numerous positive reviews reflect its quality and appeal.

Who Will Most Enjoy This Private Sailboat Tour?

This tour is ideal for small groups, couples, or families seeking a relaxed, exclusive day on the water. It suits those interested in marine wildlife, private beaches, and flexible dining experiences. Travelers who appreciate personalized service and scenic views will find this tour particularly rewarding.

However, since the tour lasts around 4 hours, it’s best suited for those comfortable with a boat trip of this length and with an interest in water-based activities.

The Sum Up: A Personalized Coastal Adventure in Madeira

The Funchal Half and Full Day Private Sailboat Tour offers a rare chance to explore Madeira’s coast on a completely private vessel. Its frequent whale and dolphin sightings, combined with stops at exclusive beaches and flexible lunch options, make it a memorable experience for those wanting an intimate, scenic, and wildlife-rich day.

While the tour’s 4-hour duration may be a limitation for travelers seeking a longer expedition, its personalized approach and expert guides ensure a comfortable and engaging journey. If you prefer a relaxed, customizable experience with ample water activities and stunning views, this sailboat tour is a top choice.

Most suited for small groups or couples, it delivers a genuine sense of discovery and connection to Madeira’s marine environment, all from the comfort of a private boat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children or passengers with mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. The tour’s flexible schedule and private nature make it accessible to many, but participants should be comfortable on a boat.

What are the lunch options?
Guests can have lunch onboard prepared by the crew or enjoy a meal at the Fajã dos Padres beach restaurant, accessible only by boat or cable car.

How far in advance should I book this tour?
Most bookings occur approximately 35 days in advance, so early reservation is recommended to secure preferred dates.

Can I cancel if the weather is poor?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. If canceled due to weather, a full refund or alternative date is provided.

What is the maximum group size?
Up to 6 people can join, making it ideal for intimate, personalized trips.

How long does the tour last?
The standard duration is about 4 hours, with options for a half-day or full-day experience.

Are there opportunities for swimming?
Yes, swimming is encouraged in the Atlantic’s mild waters, with crew assistance available.

Are whales and dolphins commonly seen?
Yes, sightings are frequent, thanks to the region’s marine biodiversity.

What makes this tour stand out from others?
Its private, customizable nature, access to hidden beaches, and friendly guides like João and Luís, make it a memorable, personal experience.

Is this tour worth the price?
Given its personalized service, exclusive access, and positive reviews, most find it a worthy investment for a unique Madeira experience.