Wines Tasting Experience and Skywalk with Dolphin Watching

Discover Madeira’s Best Landmarks with a 4×4 Tour, Wine Tasting, and Dolphin Watching

This full-day Madeira tour offers a compelling mix of scenic views, cultural experiences, and marine wildlife encounters. Priced at $124.96 per person, it combines wine tasting at local vineyards, a visit to Cabo Girao, the highest sea cliff in Europe, and an exciting boat trip to spot dolphins. With a rating of 5.0 from 34 reviews and 97% recommending, this tour appeals to travelers seeking a well-rounded day exploring the north of Madeira in a small group of up to 15 people.

Starting at 9:00 am from Funchal, the tour lasts about 8 hours, with a mix of land-based sightseeing and marine adventure. The inclusion of pickup from Funchal hotels and port makes logistics straightforward, and onboard Wi-Fi ensures connectivity throughout the day. This experience is particularly popular, usually booked 28 days in advance, making it ideal for those who appreciate planning ahead.

Key Points

• All-inclusive full-day experience with wine tasting, skywalk, and dolphin watching
• Pickup and transfers from Funchal’s central area and port at no extra cost
• Small group size ensures personalized guide attention and better interaction
• Professional guide provides informative commentary and safety instructions
• Highlights include the Cabo Girao skywalk and visits to São Vicente caves and vineyards
• Summer option for swimming below the Cabo Girao cliff

Starting the Day with Breathtaking Views at Miradouro de São Sebastião

The tour kicks off at 9:00 am with a pickup in Funchal, setting the stage for a day filled with impressive sights. The first stop is the Miradouro de São Sebastião, where travelers are greeted with spectacular panoramic views surrounded by lush vegetation and high mountains. This stop takes about an hour, giving visitors a chance to take photos and appreciate the natural beauty of Madeira’s rugged landscape.

The vantage point offers a perfect introduction to the island’s dramatic scenery. Since the admission is free, visitors can enjoy the vistas without worry about extra costs. This spot also sets a relaxed tone for the day ahead, allowing everyone to settle into the scenic rhythm of Madeira.

Exploring the São Vicente Caves and Vineyards

Next, the journey continues with a visit to the São Vicente caves, where off-road driving delivers a sense of adventure. This stop lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes and includes a tour of some of the most important vineyards in northern Madeira, located in São Vicente. The vinyards are part of the experience, offering insight into Portuguese winemaking traditions and a chance to sample local wines.

The São Vicente caves provide a striking mix of natural beauty and cultural insight. Visitors can expect spectacular views of São Vicente, Paul Da Serra, and Porto Moniz from the off-road route. The admission to the caves and vineyards is free, but the wine tasting itself is a highlight, with guides explaining the local wine-making process and history.

Walking the Heights at Cabo Girao

The tour then takes visitors to Cabo Girao, the highest sea cliff in Europe at 589 meters. Although admission to the skywalk is not included, the viewpoint offers breathtaking vistas of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding coastline. A 60-minute stop lets travelers take photos and marvel at this impressive natural feature.

In the summer months, there’s a unique opportunity to swim below the cliff, adding a fun and refreshing element to the visit. The skywalk itself is a popular photo spot, with glass-floor sections providing a thrilling perspective over the cliffs. The proximity to the highest sea cliff in Europe makes Cabo Girao a must-see highlight of the tour.

Wine Tasting and Vineyard Tour in São Vicente

The vineyard visit is a centerpiece of the trip, where guides lead small groups through local wine production. Guests learn about Portuguese winemaking traditions, with Leticia providing detailed explanations during the tour. The wine tasting features a selection of Madeira wines, showcasing the island’s unique flavors.

This part of the day blends education with enjoyment, giving visitors a deeper appreciation for Madeira’s viticulture. Since the tasting and vineyard tour are included, guests can savor the local wines without additional costs. The intimate setting allows for questions and a more personalized experience.

Scenic Drive and Views from São Vicente to Porto Moniz

Throughout the day, the journey offers spectacular views of the coast and mountains as the vehicle travels through São Vicente, Paul Da Serra, and Porto Moniz. The off-road route enhances the sense of adventure while delivering constant visual rewards. The scenery includes dense vegetation, high cliffs, and rugged coastline, making the drive itself a highlight.

The small group setup allows guides to share insights about the area’s geology and history, enriching the experience. The Wi-Fi onboard helps keep everyone connected and sharing their favorite moments in real time.

The Skywalk at Cabo Girao: A Thrilling Photo Stop

The Cabo Girao skywalk is a major highlight, offering a glass-floor platform that extends over the cliffs, providing a thrilling view of the Atlantic below. Visitors can enjoy spectacular panoramic views and take photos from this iconic vantage point. While entrance is not included in the tour price, the stop is well worth it for the photo opportunities and the sense of awe.

The viewpoint is easily accessible and offers a dramatic photo backdrop, making it a favorite among visitors. The stop duration allows enough time to take in the scenery and capture memorable images.

Marine Life Encounters: Dolphin Watching from Funchal Harbour

In the afternoon, the tour continues with a boat trip to search for dolphins and whales. The dolphin watching activity lasts approximately 3 hours, from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm, departing from Funchal Harbour. The boat is designed for comfortable viewing, with opportunities to see marine creatures in their natural habitat.

While reviews highlight that marine life sightings can vary, the boat trip offers a peaceful and scenic way to experience Madeira’s marine environment. The trip is a popular end to the day, especially for those eager to see dolphins in the wild.

Practical Details: Booking, Group Size, and Safety Measures

This small-group tour accommodates up to 15 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience. The pickup service from central Funchal and the port makes logistics simple, and vehicles are disinfected before and after use to prioritize health and safety.

The tour starts promptly at 9:00 am and concludes around 6:00 pm with the dolphin watching activity. Travelers should note that drop-off is not included; the boat trip ends in Funchal Harbour. The tour includes professional guides, insurance, and safety instructions, making it suitable for most participants.

Final Thoughts on the Madeira Full-Day Experience

This $124.96 tour offers a well-rounded day covering some of Madeira’s most iconic sights and experiences. The mix of scenic viewpoints, cultural insights, wine tasting, and marine wildlife makes it an excellent choice for curious travelers looking to explore the island in a single day.

The small group size enhances the experience, allowing guides to provide more personalized attention and insights. The highlight stops, such as Cabo Girao and the vineyard tour, stand out for their spectacular views and local flavor. The dolphin watching trip adds an exciting marine element, although sightings may vary.

This tour is ideal for visitors who want an all-in-one Madeira experience without the hassle of organizing separate activities. It suits those who enjoy scenic drives, cultural experiences, and marine adventures, all in a comfortable and well-organized setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, pickups from Funchal’s central area and port are included, and transportation is via a 4×4 vehicle.

How long is the dolphin watching trip?
The boat tour runs from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm, lasting about 3 hours.

Are entrance fees to Cabo Girao included?
No, admission to Cabo Girao’s skywalk costs €3 and is not included in the tour price.

What is the group size?
The tour accommodates a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring a small-group experience.

Can I swim below Cabo Girao?
Yes, in summer, there is the possibility to swim below the cliff, adding a refreshing element to the visit.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, and the tour is designed to be accessible, but it’s best suited for those comfortable with moderate walking and boat trips.

What safety measures are in place?
Vehicles are disinfected before and after each activity, and professional guides provide safety instructions and first aid.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, with a full refund.