This is a specialized tour for wildlife lovers (the chance of seeing more than one species during the trip is quite high). If you did not see any wildlife you will be given another trip completely free of charge.

About this activity

Free cancellation: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance to receive a full refund
Covid-19 precautions: Special health and safety measures apply. Learn more
Reserve now & pay later: Reserve now & pay later to book your spot without any charges today. Learn more
Duration 2 hours: Check availability to see starting times.
Live tour guide: English, Portuguese

Highlights

Learn about cetaceans from a certified marine biologist
Admire dolphins, whales, birds, and turtles in their natural habitat
Explore Madeira's coastline from the ocean
Enjoy a fast-paced, safe and comfortable wildlife adventure

Full description

Look for whales and dolphins in their natural environment on a small group cruise with a dedicated crew. Powered by 2x 250hp engines, you can expect to cover larger distances than any other boat in Funchal in comfort. This means you will have the best chance to spot the wildlife. Wildlife spotters work hard on land to find the animals before you set out on your trip. Update progress Depending on the species and sea conditions, you can get very close to the whales and dolphins, but remember, it is wildlife, and the primary goal is to be respectful of their habitat. Listen to informative commentary about the sea life of Madeira, as your crew and marine biologist guide make sure you have a great time whilst learning about the local cetaceans, fauna, and flora. Encounter different groups of dolphins, whales and turtles in the water, and get up-close sightings as you speed across large distances in little time. Marvel as the animals breach and splash about in the water, and learn more about these amazing creatures and life in the ocean from the certified guides.

Includes

All taxes and entrance fees
Marine biologist guide
Life vests
Guaranteed sightings or second trip free

Food and drinks
Pick-up and drop off

Not suitable for

People with back problems
People with heart problems

Covid-19 precautions

Safety measures in place

All areas that customers touch are frequently cleaned
You must keep social distance while in vehicles
The number of visitors is limited to reduce crowds

Traveler requirements

You are required to bring and wear a mask
Masks are required while indoors

Meeting point

Tour operator's office, Marina do Funchal, 9000 Funchal, Portugal

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Important information

Know before you go

Wear comfortable clothes
Please advise if you have any heart conditions, back problems or are pregnant
Sea Life sightings is guaranteed. If you do not see any wild life you will be given a second trip free of charge (please do not leave this activity to your last day of your holiday). There is no cashback refund given.
The boat holds 18 people and 2 crew members, including a marine biologist guide

Customer reviews

Overall rating

4.7 /5

based on 146 reviews

Review summary

Guide
4.9/5
Transportation
4.9/5
Value for money
4.6/5
Safety
4.6/5

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We had a wonderful experience with our biologist Anna and skipper Miguel. We were very lucky - we saw three kinds of whale (small fin pilot , bryde’s and fin). One was about 5m away! We didn’t see any dolphins but we have no complaints because whales are rarer to spot and we totally got our money’s worth. Highly recommended.

December 28, 2021

With a choppy sea ahead the ride out to sea was like a rollercoaster ride. We were on the third row and felt all the bumps but it was great fun. Sitting at the back is better for those with a bad back though. The boat does provide a poncho if you are getting wet. Its a fantastic way to see the island and we got to watch planes landing from sea. After a while we came across a pod of pilot whales and they were beautiful. The marine biologist on board gave a huge amount of information and it was great to learn a lot about these dolphins.

November 28, 2021

What a cool experience! The speedboat and amazing sights would be enough, but include the possibility of seeing sea life to it!? Amazing! We were able to see sperm whales and bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat, and it was quite the sight to see! Our guides and other passengers were extremely patient and it was totally worth it!

November 8, 2021

Funchal: Dolphin and Whale Watching Cruise

Funchal: Dolphin and Whale Watching Cruise

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