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Funchal Water sports

Our most recommended Funchal Water sports

Funchal: Dolphin and Whale Watching Catamaran Cruise

1. Funchal: Dolphin and Whale Watching Catamaran Cruise

Discover the natural beauty of Madeira coastline and look for marine life on this catamaran cruise from Funchal. Snorkel through schools of silver fish with high-quality snorkeling gear. Look for dolphins while sipping on a drink purchased from the onboard bar. See dolphins, whales, and turtles playing in their natural habitat. Throughout the year Madeira has different aquatic mammals journeying through its blue waters. Whether you come in summer or winter, the chances are high you’ll see one of these amazing creatures. Stop for a swim during the summer season or catch a glimpse of the world beneath the waves with the provided snorkeling equipment. Relax on deck with a refreshing drink from the onboard bar.

Funchal Bay: Dolphin & Whale Watch Luxury Catamaran Cruise

2. Funchal Bay: Dolphin & Whale Watch Luxury Catamaran Cruise

Spot the dolphins and whales that call Funchal Bay home on this catamaran cruise from Funchal. Snorkel in the crystal-clear waters under Cabo Girão and learn more about the majestic creatures from your expert crew. Arrive at New Marina - Funchal and board a luxury catamaran. Receive some safety information from the experienced crew. Choose to sit in the luxurious interior with comfortable seating and protection from the sun, and lounge chairs or outdoor hammocks. Afterward, sit back and relax as you sail towards the open sea. Although sightings of marine species can not be guaranteed, dolphins and whales are often found in the waters around Funchal. Keep an eye on the movements in the water whilst the crew answers any questions about the variety of species. Continue up to the high cliffs of Cabo Girão, which rise 580 meters above sea level. Anchor the boat at Cabo Girão and immerse yourself in the refreshing waters to explore underwater marine life with a snorkel. Then, sail at a leisurely pace around the Marina of Funchal, and marvel at the fantastic views of Madeira's landscapes. Return to Funchal New Marina for a quick landing process and continue to enjoy your day after the tour.

All Inclusive Whale and Dolphin Watching Luxury Tour

3. All Inclusive Whale and Dolphin Watching Luxury Tour

Your 3-hour luxury catamaran tour begins at the docks of the new marina of Funchal. Board the catamaran and enjoy a glass of sparkling wine before setting off. Sail into the ocean to find dolphins, whales, and turtles. Spot these creatures in their natural habitat. After sailing around spotting dolphins, whales and turtles enjoy a 30 minute stop next to Cabo Girão, the 1920 foot (586m) seaside cliff. Here you have a change o go swimming in the crystal clear waters. After a quick swim, you will get back on the boat where you can relax and enjoy the views of the coast of Funchal as you head back to the marina.

From Funchal: Swimming with Dolphins in Madeira Island

4. From Funchal: Swimming with Dolphins in Madeira Island

Swim with dolphins in their natural habitat in the crystal-clear waters of Madeira Island. Enjoy the support and guidance of on-hand instructors who will teach you how to approach and interact with the dolphins. Board your boat and head towards the area with a 99% chance of seeing dolphins. Get the opportunity to swim with two species of dolphins: common dolphins and spotted dolphins. As you enter the water, remain safely connected to the boat at all times. Get comfortable in the water and approach the dolphins with the support of your instructor. Once you're ready, begin to swim with the dolphins in front, below, and next to you and admire these beautiful mammals up close, and in their natural habitat. 

Madeira: Garajau Nature Reserve Kayak and Snorkel Tour

5. Madeira: Garajau Nature Reserve Kayak and Snorkel Tour

Start the day at the harbor where you will learn everything you need to know about kayaking before heading to the nature reserve. Upon arrival at Garajau, enjoy a 40-minute paddle toward Lazareto. Stop for a break on the beautiful pebble beach and take in the views of the surrounding rock features from times gone by. Afterward, discover Madeira's native marine life as you snorkel through crystal-clear waters. In the event of poor weather conditions, you will have the opportunity to explore the sea from the safety of your kayak instead. Finish the day with a spot of cliff diving before heading back to your hotel for the evening.

Madeira: Level-1 Canyoning Adventure

6. Madeira: Level-1 Canyoning Adventure

Discover why Madeira island is one of the top five places in the world for canyoning on this canyoning adventure tour. Rappel down waterfalls and experience the area’s natural splendor. Head up to the mountains where you will receive your canyoning gear. After being decked out in gear, it will be time for a small hike through some of the most impressive nature that Madeira has to offer. Rappel down sparkling waterfalls, where the mountain spring waters are always flowing.  Swim in the natural swimming pools along the canyons. In some of the canyons you may also have the opportunity to slide down natural water slides. Once the activity ends, change back into your dry clothes and return to your accommodation.

From Funchal: Intermediate (Level 2) Canyoning Adventure

7. From Funchal: Intermediate (Level 2) Canyoning Adventure

Start with pickup from Funchal, Canico or Câmara De Lobos and drive to the canyoning location. Meet your guides and receive all your equipment for the activity. Take a 20-minute walk to the entrance of a stream where the first safety briefing will take place. Along the way, abseil down breath-taking waterfalls, jump and swim in beautiful natural pools, always surrounded by incredible landscapes. With natural water slides, abseiling, and jumps into natural rock pools the canyons are sure to make your heart skip a beat. The beginning of the stream has some vertical challenges (20m), small walking sections, and many play areas. The river will be flowing by the entire time with several optional jumps. The challenge continues following a quick snack break with waterfalls. Guides will take pictures and videos of your experience throughout the day, to be sent to you afterward. At the end of the trip, there will be transportation to bring you back to the park where you began your adventure.

Funchal: Dolphin and Whale Watching Sunset Sailing Tour

8. Funchal: Dolphin and Whale Watching Sunset Sailing Tour

Get the chance to see dolphins, whales, and sea turtles on this relaxing sailing trip up to 3 miles from the coast. With some luck, you will see lots of native wildlife in its natural environment. Swim, snorkel or sit back and admire the views, and enjoy a complimentary adult beverage. Your journey begins at the marina in Funchal, where you will board the sailing yacht with a group of up to 20 people. There will be a stop to go swimming and snorkeling at Cabo Girão. Here, you can see the highest sea cliff in Europe, which towers 1,903 feet (580 meters) above the sea. If you don't want to swim, you can simply admire the beautiful coastal landscapes from the boat. You will be offered one complimentary drink on board and be able to admire the beautiful sunset over the sea.

Madeira: "Lokoloko" Canyoning Level 1

9. Madeira: "Lokoloko" Canyoning Level 1

Get set for a sporty challenge and an insight into the beauty of rural Madeira on a guided canyoning trip. Discover the scenery of a beautiful valley as you abseil, jump, and slide. After a short walk of 15 minutes through a rural area, reach the beginning of the canyon. Come across different rappels varying in altitude of up to 13 meters, water slides, and jumps. Marvel at the trees in the canyon, covered with mystic treebeard and endemic plants that are considered UNESCO world heritage. At the end of the canyon, walk for 10 minutes through ancient terraces back to the starting point.

Funchal: Scuba Diving Experience for Beginners

10. Funchal: Scuba Diving Experience for Beginners

Learn the basics of scuba diving from a PADI instructor and discover one of Funchal’s reefs. Practice your new skills in a pool to get comfortable, before embarking on your first dive around a shallow reef, where you can enjoy the vibrant colors and amazing variety of the Atlantic marine life. Start the experience at the Madeira Divepoint, which boasts its own private reef. Following an introduction and safety briefing, practice breathing and floating in a pool to get familiar with the equipment. To finish, head out to the reef to explore an incredible underwater world. Come face to face with colorful fish and striking coral as you enjoy the thrill of your first dive.

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Frequently asked questions about Funchal

What are the best day trips and excursions from Funchal?

The best day trips and excursions from Funchal are:

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Other Sightseeing Options in Funchal

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What people are saying about Funchal

We were greeted well and directed to the boat, staff were very knowledgeable and friendly on board. Refreshments and toilets were available. The sightings whales and domphins were amazing, something my children will never forget. Stafg also pointed out in a book which species we had seen on our trip with information about each. Would definately book again as such value for money!

We had a great day with João & Magdalena! They really tried to focus on establishing /improving the surfing skills of each participant and were friendly and attentive. They alao recommend us a restaurant that turned out great! Definitely recommend it.

I had such an amazing experience despite never having done canyoning before. I felt super safe and the guides were super nice and helpful :) Transport to and from the location was also amazing. Thank you so much!

We start a bit later and in a rain, but just few minutes later we were seeing dolphins and some amazing cliffs. Crew was very friendly and professional. Highly recommend!

Amazing experience. Lucky to watch the pilot whales