MADEIRA · CRUISES & BOAT TOURS
Half the coast has no road, and the cliffs only make sense from underneath them. The 15 below run from a two-hour sunset sail to a full day at Ponta de Sao Lourenco, each priced and clear about how much swimming time you actually get.
From Funchal Marina, you’ll sail aboard Magic Dolphin Eco, Madeira’s purpose-built hybrid catamaran, with land-based spotters guiding the crew toward dolphins, whales, turtles, and seabirds. Expect certified guides, two decks, large viewing nets, a Cabo Girão swim stop, and English or Portuguese commentary.
“That was very good! We saw dolphins and pilot whales. The guides were excellent.”
Join Seaborn Catamaran in Funchal Marina for a three-hour search for dolphins, whales, and turtles. Your English or Portuguese-speaking crew shares facts about local species, then anchors near Cabo Girão for a summer swim. Buy drinks aboard, and bring cash for the snorkeling deposit.
“loved the hospitality of the crew and everything else. views are amazing!!”
From Funchal’s New Marina, you’ll sail aboard the Atlantic Pearl with an English or Portuguese-speaking guide, search for dolphins and whales, then stop near Cabo Girão for swimming and snorkeling. The smaller boat, onboard bar, hammocks, bathrooms, and 3-hour schedule make this a relaxed choice.
“Despite not seeing any animals on the trip (obviously not the fault of the experience provider), we had such a great time. We chose the luxury catamaran as we wanted a more quieter experience, rather than a party boat and we got exactly what we paid for. We will cherish this memory! Thank you to the crew for the beautiful experience.”
Join Magic Dolphin in Funchal for a 2.5 to 3-hour cruise on a 2022 hybrid-electric catamaran. Shore spotters guide the captain toward dolphins and whales, while certified guides explain Madeira’s marine life. The return route passes Cabo Girão, Câmara de Lobos, Reid’s Hotel, and the coast.
“Fabulous afternoon with the guys from Magic Dolphin. Saw a school of pilot whales which was fab - excellent catamaran and crew - totally recommend!!”
Join Magic Dolphin Atividades Maritimas for a three-hour catamaran trip from Funchal. You will watch for dolphins, whales, turtles, and seabirds, hear about Madeira’s ocean life from the crew, sail beneath Cabo Girão, and swim during most summer tours. Portuguese and English tours are available.
“This trip was incredible from the start to the end. The captain Fabio was brilliant and very respectful of the animals. Clara and Natasha’s knowledge and passion was evident which enhanced an already magical experience. We will definitely look to do this again if we return to Madeira.”
Sail from Funchal with a small group of up to 20 people, searching for dolphins, whales, and sea turtles before stopping at Cabo Girão for swimming and snorkeling. Guides such as Bruno, Roberto, José, and Marco may lead the trip. Expect an open bar, sea spray, and a sunset over the Atlantic.
“I did a sunset cruise with Bruno and Roberto, and it was such an amazing experience. Although we didn’t see any wildlife, the atmosphere, scenery, and overall energy more than made up for it. Watching the sunset from the water was absolutely beautiful and something I won’t forget. Bruno was especially great — very attentive, friendly, and made sure everyone felt comfortable and had a good time throughout the cruise. You could really tell they cared about creating a great experience for everyone on board. Would definitely recommend this to anyone visiting Madeira!Read more”
Join Bruno, Joseph, and the Gaviao Madeira crew for a three-hour sailing trip from Funchal. Search for dolphins, whales, and sea turtles offshore, then swim or snorkel near Cabo Girão. The small yacht, friendly crew, and included drinks make this a relaxed alternative to a large catamaran.
“It was a beautiful experience, the captains talked with us and were very friendly. The group was limited to a maximum of 20 people to ensure enough space and a pleasant atmosphere. Thank you very much for a lovely day at sea!”
Set out from Funchal Marina for a three-hour sunset catamaran cruise along Madeira’s south coast. Watch for dolphins and whales, hear about local sea life in English or Portuguese, swim beneath Cabo Girão when conditions allow, and return as the coast lights up.
“Great trip, saw whales from far away and offered another trip the following day to see more but unable to squeeze it in. The sunset was beautiful and the boat trip was calm and relaxing. Would recommend”
Ride a rebuilt 18-seat speedboat from Funchal with a marine biologist and captain. Land-based spotters help locate dolphins and whales, while the low boat brings you close to wildlife. Expect fast runs, sea spray, coastal views, and a €10 return option if neither dolphins nor whales appear.
“Really well organised Great crew Felt very safe Excellent experience”
From Funchal Marina, you’ll spend about three hours seeking dolphins, whales, and other marine life with an experienced crew. The catamaran heads toward Cabo Girão for a possible swim, with onboard toilets, drinks, and a free repeat trip if no cetaceans appear.
“When I see the dolphins I felt very strong connection to this animals. That was the most important moment of the trip.”
Join Lobosonda in Calheta for a two-hour speedboat search for whales, dolphins, turtles, seabirds, and flying fish. Guides such as Paula and Hannah explain the animals in English and German, while the crew approaches wildlife carefully and keeps groups small when possible.
“Hannah is a gorgeous young woman, explained everything about the dolphins we saw and answered all questions, in german and english. Also big respect for david, he is an excellent boat driver!! Had so much fun. Thankyou”
Spend three hours aboard Santa Maria de Colombo, a full-size replica of Columbus’s flagship, sailing from Funchal along Madeira’s south coast. Watch for dolphins and whales, stop near Cabo Girão for a swim, and enjoy Madeira wine with honey cake. Bring warm layers or swimwear, depending on the season.
“Only problem was that the guides explained very little during the journey and their English/Spanish was very bad”
From Funchal Marina, you’ll ride a fast, small-group RIB with an experienced skipper and marine biologist guide. Land-based spotters help locate dolphins and whales, while guides such as Filipe, Francisca, Felipe, and Andrei explain the species. Expect open-water views, splashes, and a real chance to see cetaceans.
“Incredible! Saw numerous Sperm Whales. Very knowledgeable guides. Do it!!!”
Join Hugo, Pedro, Rob, or another friendly crew member aboard the traditional Madeiran boat Dragão. Over three hours, you’ll cruise from Funchal toward Cape Girão, enjoy included drinks and music, and may swim or snorkel near the cliffs before sunset.
“Was a fantastic way to see the island at sunset, got to see and swim by the sea cliffs and the guides were super friendly! The unlimited drinks were great as well!”
Join an English-speaking crew in Funchal Marina for a relaxed three-hour catamaran cruise toward Cabo Girão. Watch for dolphins, whales, and turtles, order a drink at the onboard bar, and swim in summer conditions. Wildlife is never guaranteed, but the coastal views and open-water setting make the trip worthwhile.
“Amazing trip. Very comfy catamaran. Good bar, not great. WE SAW KILLER WHALES 😍. 🐳 They all strive to find amazing animals.”
Pick a coast, a ridge or a cellar.
