For the best dolphin watching in Funchal, several well-run tours stand out from the pack. The ecological catamaran cruises are my favorite, offering nearly three hours of prime viewing opportunities for pilot whales, bottlenose dolphins, and sperm whales in their natural habitat. I’m also impressed by the traditional wooden boat excursions – they guarantee sightings with a free second trip if needed, plus they serve a nice welcome drink.
For travelers seeking more comfort, the private yacht charters deliver a premium experience with light refreshments and snorkeling options. The combo tours that pair wildlife watching with wine tasting are a smart choice for maximizing your time.
Most tours are wheelchair accessible and welcome families, making them practical choices for all types of travelers. Let’s look at the top dolphin watching experiences in Funchal.
Key Points
- The Ecological Catamaran Tours provide a 2.5 to 3-hour cruise from Funchal Marina with the opportunity to spot pilot whales, bottlenose dolphins, and sperm whales.
- Wooden Boat Excursions offer 3-hour tours from various Madeira locations, including a welcome drink of Madeira wine and a second trip if no sightings occur.
- Private Tours on luxurious motor yachts offer a 2.5-hour private charter with light refreshments, sparkling wine, and snorkeling equipment.
- Combination Tours combine jeep rides, wine tasting, and dolphin watching, though it is recommended to separate dolphin watching for a more focused experience.
- Adventure Tours combine wine tasting, natural wonders, and dolphin watching, with a full-day itinerary and a maximum of 15 travelers.
Madeira Dolphin and Whale Watching on a Ecological Catamaran
For those seeking a memorable wildlife experience during their visit to Madeira, the Madeira Dolphin and Whale Watching on an Ecological Catamaran tour offers an unparalleled opportunity.
Departing from Funchal Marina, this 2.5 to 3-hour cruise aboard a luxury catamaran promises the chance to spot pilot whales, bottlenose dolphins, and sperm whales.
With a maximum capacity of 149 travelers, the crew is dedicated to optimizing wildlife viewing while maintaining respectful encounters.
The catamaran features amenities such as trampoline nets, covered areas, and two bathrooms, making for a comfortable journey.
Lunch is included, and the tour is wheelchair accessible with assistance available, ensuring an inclusive experience.
Read our full review: Madeira Dolphin and Whale Watching on a Ecological Catamaran Review
Book now: Check availability
Madeira : Whales and Dolphins Wooden Boat Excursion
Departing from various locations across Madeira, the 3-hour Whales and Dolphins Wooden Boat Excursion offers visitors an opportunity to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
Priced from $42.28 per person, the tour features a live English-speaking guide and an optional hotel pickup service. Aboard the wooden boat, guests can enjoy a welcome drink of Madeira wine and soak up the sun while keeping an eye out for dolphins and whales.
If no sightings occur, a second trip is available for €10 per person. While reviews are mixed, the tour’s flexible booking and free cancellation policy make it a convenient choice for those seeking a nature-based adventure in Madeira.
Read our full review: Madeira : Whales and Dolphins Wooden Boat Excursion Review
Book now: Check availability
Whale and Dolphin Watching Tour in Madeira
The Whale and Dolphin Watching Tour in Madeira provides visitors a chance to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
This tour, which departs from Funchal, Portugal, offers a maximum capacity of 12 travelers and is family-friendly. Guests can expect light refreshments, snorkel equipment, and transportation options.
While wildlife sightings can’t be guaranteed, the company emphasizes the unpredictability of nature and give you an educational and enjoyable experience.
Positive reviews highlight the attentive staff and memorable encounters, though some guests have expressed concerns about miscommunication and lack of sightings.
Read our full review: Whale and Dolphin Watching Tour in Madeira Review
Book now: Check availability
Dolphin – Whale – Turtle – Bird Watching
Travelers seeking an exhilarating marine adventure in Funchal can embark on a dolphin, whale, and turtle watching tour.
This fast-paced sea safari on a speedboat offers the chance to spot a variety of wildlife, including bottlenose dolphins, common dolphins, pilot whales, and even the occasional shark or jellyfish.
With a maximum group size of 18 travelers, the tour provides personalized attention from a local expert guide who shares insights on the marine life.
While most guests enjoy close encounters with the majestic creatures, some may experience seasickness or have difficulty spotting wildlife.
Preparation, such as arriving early and dressing appropriately, can help ensure a memorable and enjoyable experience.
Read our full review: Dolphin – Whale – Turtle – Bird Watching Review
Book now: Check availability
Private Dolphin and Whale Watching Tour in Madeira
Adventurers seeking a captivating marine experience can embark on a private dolphin and whale watching tour in Madeira. This 2.5-hour charter aboard a luxurious motor yacht offers the chance to spot dolphins, whales, and sea turtles along Madeira’s stunning coastline.
With 99% of travelers recommending the tour and an abundance of positive reviews, it’s a must-try for wildlife enthusiasts. The tour includes light refreshments, sparkling wine, and snorkeling equipment.
Although wildlife sightings aren’t guaranteed, the professional and friendly crew work to provide an unforgettable experience. Flexibility in departure times and transportation options make this tour an excellent choice for your Madeira adventure.
Read our full review: Private Dolphin and Whale Watching Tour in Madeira Review
Book now: Check availability
Whale and Dolphin Watching Tour – Funchal
A captivating opportunity for wildlife enthusiasts, the Whale and Dolphin Watching Tour in Funchal, Portugal, has earned a 95% traveler recommendation across 73 reviews.
This 2-hour excursion offers a 99% chance of spotting whales or dolphins in their natural habitats, with a small group size (max 12) for personalized attention.
Guests can observe the marine life and learn about their behavioral patterns from the knowledgeable skipper, while also enjoying scenic views of Madeira from the speedboat.
Though not wheelchair accessible, the tour is conveniently located near public transportation.
Reviewers highlight the positive sightings, though some note concerns about boat handling in choppy waters.
Read our full review: Whale and Dolphin Watching Tour – Funchal Review
Book now: Check availability
Wines Tasting Experience and Skywalk With Dolphin Watching
For those seeking a multifaceted experience in Funchal, the “Wines Tasting Experience and Skywalk with Dolphin Watching” tour offers a compelling combination of activities.
Rated 5.0/5 with 97% recommendation, this tour includes a jeep ride, wine tasting at vineyards, and the chance to spot dolphins and whales.
Lasting over 9 hours, the tour provides ample time to explore the region’s natural beauty and rich winemaking heritage.
While the dolphin watching has received mixed reviews, the wine tasting and scenic skywalk are consistently praised.
Travelers should consider separating the dolphin watching for a more focused and informative experience.
Read our full review: Wines Tasting Experience and Skywalk With Dolphin Watching Review
Book now: Check availability
Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour and Catamaran Whale & Dolphin Watching
The Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour and Catamaran Whale & Dolphin Watching experience in Funchal, Portugal, offers visitors a convenient and flexible way to explore the city’s landmarks while also providing the opportunity to spot marine life along the coast.
With a 1-day pass for the bus tour and a 48-hour ticket validity, travelers can discover attractions like the Nossa Senhora do Monte Church, Old Town, and Funchal Market at their own pace.
The catamaran cruise also includes dolphin and whale watching, complemented by a wine tasting at the Old Blandys Wine Lodge.
Discounts on tickets and free entry to select sites sweeten the deal, making this a must-do activity for visitors to Funchal.
Read our full review: Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour and Catamaran Whale & Dolphin Watching Review
Book now: Check availability
Amazing Skywalk, Wine Tasting & 4×4 Adventure + Dolphin Watching
This full-day adventure in Funchal, Portugal, offers a thrilling combination of natural wonders, wine tasting, and dolphin watching.
You’ll travel by Jeep to Cabo Girão, one of Europe’s highest cliffs, and enjoy the scenic views from its glass-floored platform.
After exploring Boca dos Namorados and Câmara de Lobos, you’ll embark on a dolphin and whale-watching cruise.
The tour includes a professional guide, pickup, and all necessary insurances.
While food and drinks aren’t included, the experience provides a chance to learn about the region’s stunning landscapes and wildlife.
With a maximum of 15 travelers, this tour offers a personalized and memorable adventure.
Read our full review: Amazing Skywalk, Wine Tasting & 4×4 Adventure + Dolphin Watching Review
Book now: Check availability
Arieiro Peak and Cristo Rei 4×4 Experience + Dolphins Watching
Embark on an exhilarating adventure that combines the breathtaking landscapes of Madeira with the enchanting world of marine life.
This guided tour by Jeep and catamaran promises an unforgettable day. Explore the Nun’s Valley and savor panoramic views from Pico do Arieiro.
Then, venture out to the open sea for a chance to spot dolphins and whales in their natural habitat. With hotel pickup and drop-off, professional guides, and safety equipment, this tour offers a seamless experience.
Disinfected vehicles and the possibility of swimming below Cabo Girão cliff in summer add to the appeal.
At $95.86 per person, this tour provides exceptional value and the flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Arieiro Peak and Cristo Rei 4×4 Experience + Dolphins Watching Review
Book now: Check availability
Magic Dolphin Celebrity
For those seeking an up-close encounter with Madeira’s captivating marine life, the Magic Dolphin Celebrity tour stands out as a must-try experience.
Situated in Funchal, Portugal, this highly-rated tour boasts 100% positive reviews from travelers. Led by certified multilingual guides, the tour offers a maximum capacity of 25 guests, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.
Highlights include spotting dolphins, using provided snorkeling equipment, and enjoying a welcome drink and seasonal fruits.
With wheelchair accessibility, infant seats, and easy public transportation access, the Magic Dolphin Celebrity caters to a wide range of travelers.
Priced at $53.86 per person, the tour also features a flexible cancellation policy, allowing for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Magic Dolphin Celebrity Review
Book now: Check availability
Recap
Funchal offers a variety of exciting dolphin watching tours. From ecological catamarans to wooden boats, visitors can spot whales, dolphins, and other marine life. Many tours also include additional activities like wine tasting, 4×4 adventures, and skywalk experiences. With so many options, travelers can find the perfect tour to suit their interests and budget. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or seeking an adventurous day, Funchal’s dolphin watching tours won’t disappoint.