Funchal: Private Sailing Sunrise, Sunset & Moonlight Cruises

Discover Madeira’s Tranquil Waters with a Private Sailing Cruise

The Funchal: Private Sailing Sunrise, Sunset & Moonlight Cruises offers an intimate way to enjoy Madeira’s stunning coastline. Priced at $512 per group (up to 10 people), this 2.5-hour voyage appeals to those seeking a relaxing, personalized experience on the water. The tour departs from Funchal, with flexible start times depending on your preference, making it ideal for early risers, sunset chasers, or moonlit romantics.

What makes this experience stand out is the focus on sailing without engine whenever possible, allowing you to feel the wind and listen to the natural sounds of the sea. It’s perfect for those who long for a peaceful escape, enjoy scenic views, and appreciate tailored itineraries. The tour includes light snacks and beverages, with optional requests for lunch, dinner, or tapas, providing a customizable touch.

While the tour is intimate and flexible, it’s best suited for groups eager to enjoy unhurried sailing, stunning vistas, and a touch of Madeira’s maritime charm. The focus on natural sailing and personal attention makes it a memorable choice for a private outing with friends or family.

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Key Points

• Private group experience for up to 10 people, perfect for friends or family
• Flexible schedules allow choosing sunrise, sunset, or moonlight cruises
• No engine sailing whenever possible, enhancing the natural soundscape
• Includes hot chocolate, coffee, cakes, wine, and cheese
• Customizable snacks and drinks available on request, including tapas options
• Duration: 2.5 hours, with starting times based on your preference

The Unique Charm of Madeira’s Private Sailing Adventures

This tour takes place on a well-equipped sailboat capable of comfortably hosting up to 6 adults and children, offering plenty of space for everyone. The focus on relaxing sailing means there’s no rush, and the boat glides smoothly under the guidance of knowledgeable crew members who aim to make your experience as personal as possible.

The boat departs from Cais and begins with a safety briefing, ensuring everyone feels secure before setting out on the water. The absence of engine noise during sailing enhances the experience, allowing you to fully enjoy the natural sounds of the wind and sea. The crew’s attention to detail and friendly approach are often highlighted in reviews, making this a first-class private service.

From Funchal to the Pristine Waters of Madeira

Your journey starts at Cais in Funchal, where the crew will meet you at pontoon A. After a quick safety briefing, the tour kicks off, with the option to choose between a sunrise cruise, sunset sail, or a moonlight voyage—each offering a different perspective of Madeira’s coastline.

The itinerary is flexible, with destinations tailored to your wishes. Whether you want to drift along the coast, observe marine life, or enjoy a quiet moment under the stars, the crew adapts to your preferences. The light snacks and beverages included, such as hot chocolate, coffee, cakes, wine, and cheese, add to the comfort and enjoyment aboard.

Enjoying Madeira’s Spectacular Sunrises and Sunsets

The sunrise cruise offers a peaceful start to the day, with the first rays illuminating the Atlantic and making the waters shimmer. If you prefer a more romantic setting, the sunset cruise provides a chance to see the famous “Green Flash” as the sun sinks behind the horizon, often creating a breathtaking display.

During the moonlight cruise, the calm of the night combined with the gentle sway of the boat creates an enchanting atmosphere. Watching the moonlight dance on the water, you may also see dolphins swimming past or enjoy the quiet beauty of Madeira under a starry sky.

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Gourmet Snacks and Beverages on the Water

The tour includes hot chocolate, coffee, and cakes to keep you warm and satisfied during the voyage. For those who want to indulge further, drinks such as beer, wine, cider, or sodas are available on request. The light bites menu offers a variety of flavors, including Iberian sausages, cheeses, and Portuguese hot fritters, or a “Sailor’s Breakfast” with a scabbard fish sandwich, boiled egg, hot chocolate, and banana—all made with local ingredients.

Guests can request additional snacks or a light dinner at an extra cost, adding flexibility to your experience. The focus remains on providing a relaxed, enjoyable journey with delicious options to complement the scenic views.

Meeting Points and Practical Details

The meeting point is at the entrance of pontoon A at Cais da Cidade in Funchal. Access involves walking down the stairs from the City Pier; once there, you call the crew to open the pontoon gate. The activity ends back at the same location, making logistics straightforward.

Bookings are flexible, with the option to reserve now and pay later, and a full refund is available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance. The tour is conducted in multiple languages, including Spanish, Portuguese, English, Italian, and French, ensuring clear communication.

The Experience of a Private Sailboat with a Knowledgeable Crew

The crew’s friendly, attentive approach is a recurring highlight in reviews. They tailor the schedule to your wishes and offer additional activities such as snorkeling or stand-up paddleboarding if requested. The yacht is well-maintained, stylishly equipped, and spacious enough for a comfortable private outing.

The guides’ expertise and warm personality make the experience stand out, with guests praising the flexibility, personalized service, and the chance to enjoy dolphins swimming past or observe sea rays during snorkeling.

Why This Tour Appeals to Nature and Relaxation Lovers

This sailing adventure provides a perfect escape into Madeira’s pristine waters, away from crowded tourist spots. The emphasis on unhurried sailing and natural sounds makes it ideal for those seeking peace, scenic beauty, and a connection to nature.

The flexible itinerary means you can customize your experience—whether you want to watch the sunrise, enjoy a sunset with a glass of wine, or drift under the moonlight. The small group size guarantees attentive service and a quiet, intimate atmosphere.

Who Will Love This Private Sailing Experience?

This tour suits travelers who value personalized service, enjoy scenic views, and wish to experience Madeira from a different perspective. It’s especially appealing to romantic couples, families with children, and groups of friends who want a private, flexible outing on the water.

Those interested in snorkeling, paddleboarding, or simply relaxing on deck will appreciate the crew’s willingness to tailor the experience. It’s perfect if you prefer a slow-paced, peaceful adventure over crowded tours or large cruises.

The Sum Up: A Calm, Personalized Way to Enjoy Madeira’s Coastline

The Funchal private sailing cruise offers a relaxing, customizable experience with an emphasis on natural sailing and personal service. Its 2.5-hour duration, flexible timetable, and inclusive snacks and drinks make it a memorable way to see Madeira’s coastline in style and comfort.

While it’s ideal for those seeking tranquility and scenic beauty, it may not suit travelers looking for a fast-paced or activity-packed tour. The focus on unhurried sailing and small group intimacy ensures a peaceful escape, whether at sunrise, sunset, or under the moon.

This tour provides exceptional value for those who enjoy personalized, off-the-beaten-path experiences on the water, with the added comfort of delicious local treats and a friendly crew guiding the way.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the private sailing tour?
The tour lasts 2.5 hours, with flexible start times depending on your preference.

What is included in the price?
The price covers hot chocolate, coffee, cakes, wine, and cheese, with optional requests for additional snacks or drinks.

Can I choose the departure time?
Yes, the tour offers flexible starting times based on your schedule.

Where does the tour depart from?
The activity begins at Cais, specifically at pontoon A, accessible via the Cais da Cidade.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the boat can host up to 6 adults and children, making it suitable for family outings.

What about the sailing style?
The boat aims to sail without engine when possible, allowing you to enjoy the natural sounds of the wind and sea.

Are food and drinks customizable?
Yes, light snacks and beverages are included, and additional lunch, dinner, or tapas can be requested.

Is there a safety briefing?
Yes, a 10-minute safety briefing occurs before departure.

What languages does the crew speak?
The crew communicates in Spanish, Portuguese, English, Italian, and French.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

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