All Inclusive Whale and Dolphin Watching Luxury Tour

Key Points

• Luxurious 3-hour catamaran cruise departing from Funchal’s new marina
• All drinks included, featuring alcohol, local snacks, and a welcome sparkling wine
• Spot dolphins, whales, and turtles in their natural habitat with expert guides
• Stop at Cabo Girão for swimming, snorkeling, and picture-perfect views from the seaside cliff
• Small-group experience with spacious indoor and outdoor seating on the most luxurious Madeira catamaran
• No hotel pickup included, with meeting at the marina

You can check availability for your dates here:

Madeira’s Most Luxurious Whale and Dolphin Watching Catamaran

This all-inclusive whale and dolphin tour offers a 3-hour voyage on Madeira’s most upscale catamaran, operated by Oceano Pioneiro. For $90 per person, travelers enjoy an experience combining wildlife viewing, scenic stops, and VIP service, making it ideal for those seeking comfort and quality.

The tour departs from the new marina of Funchal at the Kiosk VipDolphins, where you’ll be greeted with a welcome glass of sparkling wine. The vessel features both indoor and outdoor seating, providing flexible options to relax and take in the stunning ocean surroundings. With a small group size, the experience feels intimate and well-attended, with plenty of space to move around.

While there’s no hotel pickup, the meeting point is straightforward, and the tour ends back at the same dock. Expect a luxurious, well-maintained vessel with modern amenities, including toilets for men and women. The price includes all drinks, from soft beverages to local wines and spirits, plus snacks and local treats to keep everyone refreshed.

Discover the Marine Wildlife of Madeira’s Atlantic Waters

The core of this tour is the wildlife search. The guided trip takes you into the Atlantic Ocean where dolphins, whales, and turtles are observed in their natural environment. The tour is led by experienced guides who share their knowledge in English, Portuguese, and Spanish.

The small group size and spacious boat allow for excellent views and close encounters with marine animals. Reports consistently highlight pilot whales and dolphins as common sightings, with some trips also spotting rare species like sunfish, flying fish, and even seals. The guides’ enthusiasm and expertise contribute to a more engaging wildlife experience.

The boat’s design ensures plenty of space for viewing, and the crew’s attentiveness means everyone gets good angles to see the marine life. The marine biologists onboard help point out animals and share insights, enriching the experience further.

Scenic Stop at Cabo Girão Seaside Cliff

One of the highlights is the 30-minute stop at Cabo Girão, a 1920-foot (586-meter) sea cliff offering some of Madeira’s most iconic vistas. Here, travelers can swim in crystal-clear waters and enjoy snorkeling with provided gear.

The stop at Cabo Girão is a perfect opportunity to relax, take photos of the stunning coastline, and enjoy the fresh sea air. After the swim, the boat crew often serves local snacks and offers beverages to keep everyone energized for the next leg of the cruise.

The scenic views on the way to and from the cliff are a major part of the experience, with the boat passing along Funchal’s coast and providing excellent vantage points for photos. Many reviews mention the beautiful landscape, especially from the sea level perspective the boat offers.

The Itinerary: A Well-Structured Marine Adventure

This 7-stop itinerary is designed to maximize wildlife sightings and coastal scenery, balanced with relaxing breaks:

• Start at VipDolphins Catamaran Whale Watching dock
• First 45-minute sailing segment to explore marine habitats
• Secret stop with cocktails, guided tour, and dolphin watching for 30 minutes
• Second 30-minute sailing segment to continue wildlife search
• Cabo Girão stop for 30 minutes with swimming, snorkeling, and scenic views
• Final 45-minute cruise back to the dock

Each segment provides a different perspective, with the stop at Cabo Girão standing out as a chance to dive into the water or simply admire the coastline from a scenic vantage point. The crew coordinates these stops smoothly, ensuring a relaxed pace.

More Great Tours Nearby

Experience the Best of Madeira’s Coastal Views

Throughout the tour, the coastline of Funchal is a stunning backdrop, with scenic vistas that are perfect for photos. The guides often point out notable landmarks, and the scenic route around Madeira’s rugged coast is integral to the experience.

The view of Cabo Girão from the boat is particularly breathtaking, with the cliff’s sheer drop visible from the water. The crystal-clear waters near the cliffs are ideal for swimming and snorkeling, with gear provided free of charge.

Many reviews highlight the excellent photo opportunities during the scenic segments, with some guests mentioning the beautiful sea and island views as the trip’s most memorable part.

Premium Comfort on a Spacious, Modern Catamaran

The luxury catamaran is described as spacious and well-maintained, with indoor and outdoor seating options. Guests find it ideal for relaxing or observing marine life, thanks to the ample space and smooth ride.

Toilets are available onboard, adding convenience for families and longer outings. The crew’s professionalism and friendly attitude shine through in reviews, with many noting the attentiveness and knowledge of guides and staff, including marine biologists.

The small group size ensures personalized attention, making it easier to spot wildlife and enjoy the surroundings comfortably. The climate-appropriate dress is recommended, as weather can vary, and the boat’s open layout is best suited for fair weather days.

All-Inclusive Drinks and Snacks Enhance the Experience

One of this tour’s main attractions is the all-inclusive drinks service. Guests enjoy unlimited beverages, including local wines, spirits, beers, soft drinks, and hot beverages. The welcome glass of sparkling wine sets an elegant tone at the start.

Snacks and local treats are provided throughout, with many reviews praising the quality and variety. The staff’s attentiveness ensures that everyone stays refreshed, whether enjoying a cocktail during wildlife spotting or a snack after swimming.

This premium service adds value, making the trip feel like a luxury experience rather than just a wildlife cruise. The absence of additional charges for drinks means guests can relax without worrying about extra costs.

No Hotel Pickup, but Easy Access to the Marina

The meeting point at Kiosk VipDolphins is central and easily accessible from Funchal’s main areas. Since hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, travelers should plan to arrive directly at the marina.

The check-in process is straightforward, with skip-the-line access, thanks to a separate entrance. This helps keep the boarding process smooth and efficient, especially during peak times.

The activity duration of 3 hours includes time for wildlife watching, scenic stops, and relaxing onboard, making it a compact yet comprehensive ocean adventure.

Summary of the Experience and Who Will Enjoy It

The All-Inclusive Whale and Dolphin Watching Luxury Tour offers a top-quality experience combining wildlife encounters, scenic coastal views, and VIP amenities. The small-group setting and spacious vessel create a comfortable environment for wildlife lovers and those seeking a relaxing luxury cruise.

Reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, friendly crew, and high standard of service, making it clear that this tour is ideal for travelers who value both comfort and authenticity. The all-inclusive drinks and snacks elevate the experience, especially for those who enjoy a sociable, leisurely outing.

While the tour doesn’t include hotel transport, its convenient marina location and well-organized schedule make it an excellent choice for visitors wanting quality wildlife viewing combined with scenic scenery and luxury.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts 3 hours, starting at different times depending on availability.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The activity is not suitable for children under 3 years old.

Are drinks included?
Yes, all drinks, including alcohol, are included in the price.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
No, snorkels and goggles are provided free of charge.

Where does the tour depart from?
The tour departs from Kiosk VipDolphins at the New Marina of Funchal.

Is there a restroom onboard?
Yes, there are toilets for men and women on the vessel.

Can I swim during the stop at Cabo Girão?
Yes, swimming and snorkeling are available during the 30-minute stop at Cabo Girão.

Is the boat wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

Do I need to reserve in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.

Can I pay on the day of the tour?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later, allowing flexibility for your travel plans.

This luxury whale and dolphin tour combines outstanding wildlife viewing, scenic stops, and premium service, making it a top choice for anyone wanting a memorable, comfortable ocean adventure in Madeira.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby