The rugged coastline of Madeira begs to be explored by paddle, and several excellent outfitters make it easy. The best experiences combine kayaking with wildlife watching – I’m particularly fond of Madeira Radical’s half-day tours where you’ll often spot dolphins and whales. For nature lovers, the Garajau Reserve delivers exceptional snorkeling stops between kayaking sessions. Two standout launching points are Quinta Do Lorde Marina and Câmara De Lobos Harbour, both offering guided trips along the dramatic cliffs and into secluded coves. Private tours work well for families or those wanting extra attention. Let’s look at my favorite kayaking tours on the island.
Key Points
- Madeira Radical offers highly-rated half-day kayak tours that provide opportunities to spot dolphins and whales in a private setting.
- The Kayak and Snorkeling Tour in Underwater Nature Reserve Garajau offers a guided experience to explore the area’s rich marine life.
- Quinta Do Lorde’s kayak experience to Ponta De São Lourenço includes snorkeling and refreshments at the Casa do Sardinha Nature Spot Café.
- Funchal Boat Trip With Kayak Experience combines a boat trip and guided kayak experience, suitable for beginners and experienced paddlers.
- Private guided kayaking tours along Madeira’s coastline offer opportunities to explore the dramatic cliffs, lush landscapes, and diverse marine life.
Half Day Kayak Tours
The half-day kayak tours in Madeira offer visitors a captivating water-based adventure along the island’s stunning coastline.
Operated by Madeira Radical, these tours provide an immersive experience for a reasonable price of $38.50 per person. With a solid 4.3-star rating from 38 reviews, the tours are known for their friendly and knowledgeable guides, who ensure participants’ safety and provide informative commentary.
The tours include essential equipment like life jackets, snorkeling gear, and water, and take place in a private setting. While the activities aren’t wheelchair accessible, they’re suitable for travelers with a moderate fitness level, offering opportunities to spot dolphins, whales, and explore the Atlantic’s natural beauty.
Read our full review: Half Day Kayak Tours Review
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Funchal Boat Trip With Kayak Experience
An immersive 2-hour adventure awaits visitors to Funchal, as they embark on a captivating boat trip combined with a guided kayak experience along the city’s breathtaking coastline.
Suitable for beginners and experienced paddlers alike, this family-friendly activity offers scenic views of the city and crystalline waters, with the opportunity to swim after kayaking.
Priced from $42.27 per person, the tour includes a life-jacket, water, and hotel pickup and drop-off.
While not suitable for children under 6, non-swimmers, or those with heart problems or mobility issues, the experience promises an unforgettable exploration of Funchal’s natural beauty.
Cancellation up to 24 hours in advance is free, and booking is available with no upfront payment.
Read our full review: Funchal Boat Trip With Kayak Experience Review
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Kayak and Snorkeling Tour in Underwater Nature Reserve Garajau
Venture into the captivating Underwater Nature Reserve Garajau for an unforgettable kayak and snorkeling adventure.
This 92-review tour takes you to known snorkeling spots teeming with marine life. After a guided kayak along the reserve, you’ll get the chance to don provided snorkeling gear and explore the underwater world.
The experience is suitable for most travelers, though not recommended for non-swimmers. With a minimum of 2 people per booking, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery and knowledgeable guide.
While some have expressed concerns about duration and value, the overall 4.5-star rating from 92 reviews suggests an enjoyable, well-organized tour.
Read our full review: Kayak and Snorkeling Tour in Underwater Nature Reserve Garajau Review
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Quinta Do Lorde: Kayak Experience to Ponta De São Lourenço
Set out on a captivating kayak adventure to the stunning Ponta de São Lourenço Natural Reserve from the Quinta Do Lorde Marina.
For just $40.16, you’ll depart by Zodiac boat and enjoy guided kayaking through this picturesque area. Explore the reserve, snorkel in the crystal clear waters, and take in the breathtaking views.
The small-group tour, limited to 10 participants, is led by English, Portuguese, and Spanish-speaking guides. After your adventure, visit the Casa do Sardinha Nature Spot Café for refreshments.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and no upfront payment required, this experience is a must-do during your Madeira vacation.
Read our full review: Quinta Do Lorde: Kayak Experience to Ponta De São Lourenço Review
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Private Stand Up Paddle Tour in Câmara De Lobos
For those seeking an exhilarating way to experience the stunning coastal scenery of Madeira, the Private Stand Up Paddle Tour in Câmara de Lobos is a must.
Priced at €60 per person, this 100% recommended tour offers a private guide, all necessary equipment, and even GoPro pictures to capture the adventure.
Available daily from 9 AM to 6 PM, the tour departs from Câmara de Lobos Harbour, taking paddlers on a journey to explore the charming fishing village and its picturesque landscapes.
While not recommended for those with certain medical conditions, the tour is accessible to most travelers and provides a unique opportunity to take in Madeira’s natural beauty.
Read our full review: Private Stand Up Paddle Tour in Câmara De Lobos Review
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Porto Santo: Kayak Tour From Ponta Calheta
Those seeking to explore the rugged coastal landscapes of Porto Santo can embark on the Kayak Tour from Ponta Calheta. Priced from €33 per person, this 1.5-hour adventure allows participants to kayak to Cal Islet and Zimbralinho Beach, admiring volcanic rock formations, caves, and cliffs along the way.
With multilingual guides, free cancellation, and hotel pickup/drop-off, the tour offers a hassle-free experience. Reviewers praise the exceptional guide, scenic beauty, and excellent value for money.
Flexibility is ensured with the reserve now, pay later option, though weather conditions may lead to cancellations. Visitors can check availability and book their spot to discover Porto Santo’s stunning coastline by kayak.
Read our full review: Porto Santo: Kayak Tour From Ponta Calheta Review
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Private Kayak Tour in Câmara De Lobos
A private kayak tour in Câmara de Lobos, Madeira, Portugal, allows visitors to explore the region’s stunning coastal landscapes.
Priced from $64.35 per person, the 1/22/2022 – 8/5/2025 tour offers a full package, including a private guide, kayak, paddle, life vest, and more.
Operating daily from 9 AM to 6 PM, the tour meets at the Câmara de Lobos Harbour, where ample parking is available.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers, though those with back problems or serious medical conditions should avoid it.
With an impressive 5-star rating based on 9 reviews, the tour is praised for its friendly guide, timely communication, and enjoyable snorkeling experience.
Read our full review: Private Kayak Tour in Câmara De Lobos Review
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Madeira: Garajau Nature Reserve Kayak and Snorkel Tour
The Madeira: Garajau Nature Reserve Kayak and Snorkel Tour offers a captivating exploration of Madeira’s stunning coastal landscapes.
Priced from $36.99 per person, this 3-hour tour allows visitors to discover the region’s natural beauty through kayaking and snorkeling.
Along the way, participants can enjoy panoramic views of Funchal, encounter vibrant marine life, and even try cliff diving.
With flexible booking and a generous cancellation policy, the tour caters to travelers’ needs.
Customer reviews praise the knowledgeable guide and the overall value for money.
Whether seeking adventure or relaxation, this tour provides a well-rounded experience to take in Madeira’s natural wonders.
Read our full review: Madeira: Garajau Nature Reserve Kayak and Snorkel Tour Review
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Stand Up Paddle Private Lesson in Calheta Beach
Nestled along Madeira’s picturesque Calheta Beach, the Stand Up Paddle Private Lesson offers visitors a unique opportunity to master the art of stand-up paddleboarding.
Rated 5.0 out of 5 stars by 5 reviews, this private lesson is priced from $91.16 per person and includes a paddleboard, rash vest, and personalized instruction.
The lesson takes place at the convenient meeting point of LookAll, with pickup and drop-off provided.
The activity is suitable for most travelers, though not recommended for those with certain medical conditions.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start.
With positive feedback from past participants, the Stand Up Paddle Private Lesson promises an engaging and rewarding experience on the waters of Calheta Beach.
Read our full review: Stand Up Paddle Private Lesson in Calheta Beach Review
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Madeiras Marine Reserve: Kayak & Snorkelling Trip
Situated within the picturesque Garajau Underwater Natural Reserve, the Kayak & Snorkelling Tour offers visitors a captivating glimpse into Madeira’s marine wonders.
Over the course of 2 hours, participants can paddle a kayak along the stunning coastline and snorkel in the crystal-clear waters, observing a diverse array of native marine life.
From sea bream and barracudas to parrotfish and pufferfish, the tour provides the chance to encounter a wealth of fascinating species.
With a maximum group size of 10 and a team of multilingual guides, this activity caters to adventurers of all levels, delivering an unforgettable experience for a reasonable price.
Read our full review: Madeiras Marine Reserve: Kayak & Snorkelling Trip Review
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Câmara De Lobos: Private Guided Kayaking Tour in Madeira
Departing from the charming town of Câmara de Lobos, this private guided kayaking tour offers an intimate adventure along Madeira’s stunning coastline.
The 1.5-hour experience allows you to glide across crystal-clear waters, discover the impressive Cabo Girão cliffs, and admire the lush landscapes and marine life.
With a private guide, you’ll benefit from personalized attention and gain insider knowledge about the region.
The tour includes all necessary equipment, such as kayaks, paddles, and life vests, as well as snorkeling gear for exploration.
Suitable for all ages and fitness levels, this is an excellent way to learn about Madeira’s natural beauty.
Read our full review: Câmara De Lobos: Private Guided Kayaking Tour in Madeira Review
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Funchal: Private Sunset Boat Trip With Snorkeling and Paddle
Depart Funchal’s picturesque harbor aboard a private boat for a serene sunset cruise along Madeira’s southern coast.
You’ll spend 3 hours exploring hidden coves, snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, and paddling a kayak alongside the boat.
Marvel at Madeira’s dramatic cliffs and rocky shores while enjoying complimentary snacks and beverages.
This small-group tour (maximum 10 participants) offers a chance to experience the island’s natural beauty in an intimate setting.
Priced at Kč 1,137 per person, it’s a must-do activity for nature lovers visiting Funchal.
With 4.7 stars and 1,420 reviews, it’s one of the top-rated sunset and water experiences in Madeira.
Read our full review: Funchal: Private Sunset Boat Trip With Snorkeling and Paddle Review
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Recap
Madeira offers a variety of exceptional kayak and canoe experiences. From half-day tours to private lessons, visitors can explore the island’s stunning coastline, marine reserves, and picturesque towns. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced paddler, there’s an adventure waiting for you. With so many options, you’re sure to find the perfect way to experience Madeira’s beautiful waters and scenery.