Dolphin and Whale Watching Catamaran Cruise from Funchal

Key Points

• Affordable and well-reviewed: Priced at $46.44 per person with a 4.5/5 rating from nearly 600 reviews.
• Duration and departure: The tour lasts approximately 3 hours and departs from Funchal Marina.
• Wildlife sightings and water activities: Opportunities to see dolphins and pilot whales, with the chance to swim in crystal-clear waters near Cabo Girao during summer months.
• Comfortable catamaran: The vessel is described as stylish and spacious, with upstairs and downstairs areas.
• Expert crew: The guides are praised for being knowledgeable and friendly, providing detailed info about marine life.
• Weather-dependent: Sightings are not guaranteed, but a complimentary re-journey is offered if no cetaceans are seen.

Madeira Dolphin and Whale Watching Catamaran Cruise

The Dolphin and Whale Watching Catamaran Cruise from Funchal offers an engaging 3-hour marine adventure for those wanting to observe Madeira’s abundant marine life. Priced at just $46.44 per person, this tour is a popular choice, booked about 8 days in advance on average. It departs from Funchal Marina, where you’ll start with a brief safety and overview session before heading out into the Atlantic aboard a stylish catamaran.

This tour emphasizes wildlife spotting, with the crew actively searching for dolphins, pilot whales, and other marine creatures using binoculars. While the trip offers the possibility to swim in the waters below Cabo Girao—one of the highest sea cliffs in the world—this is weather-dependent and occurs mainly during summer months. The experience combines relaxation, scenery, and wildlife encounters, making it ideal for nature lovers and families.

Dolphin and Whale Watching from Funchal Marina

The meeting point for this tour is Praça do Povo in Funchal, easily accessible and close to public transportation. The departure process begins with a quick briefing, after which the crew sets out to search for marine life. The binoculars with a compass aid in spotting creatures from a distance, with the crew providing detailed information about each species encountered.

Participants should be prepared for up to 3 hours at sea, with space to relax on the boat’s upstairs or downstairs areas. The size of the tour group can be up to 180 travelers, but reviews often mention a comfortable and spacious environment. The trip’s pacing is typically relaxed, allowing ample time for wildlife observation and scenic sailing.

Opportunities for Swimming and Water Activities

A highlight for many aboard is the chance to take a dip in the crystal-clear waters near Cabo Girao, one of the highest sea cliffs in the world at 580 meters (about 1903 feet). This swimming stop is dependent on weather and sea conditions but offers a refreshing break during the trip. Some reviews note that it’s a well-organized opportunity to enjoy the ocean and even snorkel, with reasonable prices for drinks available on board.

The marine environment around Cabo Girao is noted for its beauty, providing a stunning backdrop for water-based activities. Travelers should bring swimwear, sunscreen, and windbreakers, especially if visiting during summer months when it can get a bit chilly at sea.

The Crew: Knowledgeable Guides and Friendly Service

The crew on this tour earns high praise for being well-informed and approachable. They explain the species of dolphins and whales seen and share technical and historic insights, making the experience both educational and engaging. Several reviews mention the guides’ enthusiasm and ability to handle wildlife sightings, which adds a personal touch to the trip.

While wildlife sightings are not guaranteed, the crew’s expertise maximizes the chances of seeing marine life, and if no cetaceans are observed, the company offers a free re-visit within a year.

The Likelihood of Wildlife Sightings

Most reviews describe successful sightings of dolphins, with some reports of pilot whales and even orcas and manta rays on rare occasions. The guides do their best to spot pods of dolphins and pilot whales, and many mention close-up views that evoke a strong connection to the animals.

A few reviews reflect some disappointment when no marine life is seen. However, the re-visit policy helps maintain confidence in the experience, ensuring that wildlife unpredictability does not diminish overall satisfaction.

Water and Refreshment Options

While food and drinks are not included in the tour price, the onboard bar offers cold beers at just 4 euros a pint, along with juices and other beverages. Several reviews mention enjoying a cold drink while relaxing on deck, especially during the sail back to port after the wildlife search.

Travelers are encouraged to bring their own snacks and drinks, although the bar prices are considered reasonable. The availability of drinks adds a casual, laid-back element to the trip.

The Stunning Coastal Views and Scenic Sail

Even if marine life sightings are few or absent, the scenery along Madeira’s south coast provides plenty of visual delights. The sail back to Funchal offers great vistas of cliffs, coves, and seaside towns. Several reviewers appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and beautiful vistas, making the trip worthwhile even when wildlife encounters are limited.

The upstairs deck is particularly favored for better views and photo opportunities, with some guests noting they got spots up front to enjoy unobstructed views.

Customer Experience and Overall Value

The tour generally earns positive reviews for value for money and overall experience. Many describe it as a “good value excursion”, noting the spacious boat and friendly staff. The option for a free re-ride is also appreciated, especially by those who missed sightings on their first trip.

While a few reviews express disappointment with short observation times or lack of whales, most highlight the opportunity to see dolphins, the informative guides, and the scenic sail as the trip’s main strengths.

Suitable Audience for the Tour

This dolphin and whale watching cruise appeals most to families, wildlife enthusiasts, and casual cruisers. It’s suitable for most travelers, with minimal physical requirements. Those looking for a relaxing ocean experience with a chance to connect with nature find this tour fitting, especially if they are prepared for weather variability and understand that marine sightings are not guaranteed.

The swimming opportunity makes it appealing for water lovers wanting a refreshing break during their Madeira trip, though weather conditions will determine if this activity is feasible.

The Sum Up: A Relaxing and Scenic Marine Adventure

The Dolphin and Whale Watching Catamaran Cruise from Funchal offers a well-priced and comfortable way to explore Madeira’s marine environment. The 3-hour experience combines wildlife spotting, scenic sailing, and water activities like swimming, all led by knowledgeable and friendly guides.

While marine sightings depend on nature’s unpredictability, the re-visit policy and casual, spacious vessel make this a trustworthy choice for lovers of the sea. It’s especially suited for those seeking a relaxed, scenic trip with opportunities for up-close dolphin encounters and breathtaking coastal views.

For families or groups wanting a fun, educational outing at a reasonable price, this tour offers good value and memorable moments on Madeira’s waters.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from Funchal Marina, starting at Praça do Povo.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but there is a bar onboard offering cold beers and beverages at reasonable prices.

Can I swim during the tour?
Yes, swimming is possible during the summer months if weather and sea conditions are suitable. It takes place at Cabo Girao.

What if no marine life is seen?
A complimentary re-visit within one year is offered if no dolphins or whales are spotted during your trip.

How many people can join this tour?
The tour can accommodate up to 180 travelers, but reviews note a spacious environment.

Is the trip suitable for children?
Yes, children must be accompanied by an adult. The tour is generally accessible for most ages.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, windbreakers, and bathing suits or towels if planning to swim.

What is the main highlight of this tour?
The primary appeal is wildlife viewing, especially dolphins and pilot whales, combined with scenic sailing along Madeira’s coast.