From Funchal: West Bays Sailing Tour With Lunch

Madeira’s breathtaking west coast is the backdrop for this captivating sailing tour. Participants can expect to witness the island’s natural wonders, from the chances of spotting marine life to the picturesque landmarks. The five-hour excursion offers a scenic swim stop and a delicious lunch, all while knowledgeable guides provide insight into the region’s unique features. With all necessary equipment provided, this adventure promises an unforgettable experience for those seeking to enjoy Madeira’s pristine waters. But what else can travelers expect from this remarkable tour? Let’s dive deeper into the details.

This experience made our list of the 8 Best Lunch Experiences In Madeira.

Key Points

• A 5-hour excursion from Funchal, Madeira, that explores the west coast and offers opportunities to see dolphins, whales, and sea turtles.
• Includes a scenic swim stop, a delicious lunch, and hotel pickup and drop-off.
• Available in Portuguese and English, with a knowledgeable guide and snorkeling equipment provided.
• Suitable for travelers seeking an immersive experience exploring Madeira’s natural beauty and marine ecosystem.
• Flexible cancellation policy with full refunds for weather-related issues or medical emergencies.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The West Bays Sailing Tour with Lunch is a 5-hour excursion departing from Funchal, Madeira. Priced from £50.58 per person, the tour is available in both Portuguese and English.

It caters to adults, children, and infants. Participants can explore the west coast of Madeira, including popular bays like Ponta do Sol and Ribeira Brava. They may spot dolphins, whales, and sea turtles, and enjoy snorkeling among the vibrant marine life.

The tour includes a scenic swim stop, a delicious lunch, and hotel pickup and drop-off. Passengers should arrive 30 minutes early at the designated meeting point and wear comfortable attire.

The tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues.

Experience Highlights

Exploring the west coast of Madeira, the West Bays Sailing Tour with Lunch offers numerous opportunities to witness the island’s diverse marine life. From spotting playful dolphins and majestic whales to snorkeling among colorful ocean wildlife, the tour provides an immersive experience in Madeira’s natural beauty.

Species Sighting Chances	High	Moderate	Low
Dolphins	✓
Whales	✓
Sea Turtles		✓

The tour also showcases Madeira’s iconic landmarks, including the dramatic Cabo Girão and the charming Câmara de Lobos Bay. With a refreshing swim stop and a delicious lunch included, this sailing adventure promises an unforgettable day on the water.

Tour Details

Participants are required to arrive 30 minutes early at the designated meeting point, Praça do Povo, Cais 8, where they’ll find the tour kiosk in front of door number 2 (Gavião Madeira).

The tour includes a knowledgeable guide, a delicious lunch, drinks, and snorkeling equipment. Hotel pickup and drop-off are also provided.

Guests are advised to wear comfortable shoes, swimwear, and bring a towel, sunscreen, and a light jacket. Oversize luggage and smoking (except electronic) aren’t allowed on board.

The tour isn’t suitable for individuals with mobility impairments, and shoes are prohibited on the boat.

In case of inclement weather, an alternative date or full refund will be offered.

Cancellation Policy

Customers can take advantage of the tour operator’s flexible cancellation policy, which allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This policy provides peace of mind for travellers, ensuring they can adjust their plans without penalty if unexpected circumstances arise. The table below outlines the key details:

Cancellation Period	Refund Amount
24 hours or more	100%
Less than 24 hours	0%
No-show	0%
Extreme Weather	100%
Medical Emergency	100%

This straightforward and customer-friendly cancellation policy is an important consideration for those booking the West Bays Sailing Tour.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Accessibility Information

The tour isn’t suitable for individuals with mobility impairments. Guests must be able to board and disembark the boat with minimal assistance.

Plus, shoes aren’t permitted on board, so participants should wear comfortable, slip-on footwear. In case of inclement weather, the tour operator will offer an alternative date or a full refund. This ensures the safety and enjoyment of all guests.

While the tour may not be accessible to everyone, the operator is committed to providing a memorable experience for those who can participate. Guests are advised to consider their mobility needs before booking to ensure the tour meets their expectations.

What to Bring

To make the most of the West Bays Sailing Tour, guests should come prepared with a few essential items.

Comfortable shoes are a must, as you’ll be doing some walking and exploring. Swimwear is a necessity for the swim stop and potential snorkeling opportunities. A towel will come in handy for drying off after the swim.

Don’t forget to pack sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun’s rays. A light jacket or sweater is recommended, as the ocean breeze can be cool at times.

Lastly, be sure to bring your camera to capture the stunning coastal scenery and any wildlife encounters along the way.

Not Allowed

Two items aren’t allowed on the West Bays Sailing Tour. Oversize luggage is prohibited, as it can be cumbersome and take up valuable space on the boat.

Plus, smoking, except for electronic cigarettes, isn’t permitted during the tour. This policy helps maintain a pleasant and comfortable environment for all participants.

The tour’s rules are as follows:

1. No oversize luggage
2. No smoking (except electronic cigarettes)
3. No shoes on board
4. Mobility impaired individuals may not be able to participate

These guidelines ensure the safety and enjoyment of the sailing experience for everyone involved.

Customer Reviews

Positive customer feedback reflects the West Bays Sailing Tour’s ability to deliver an engaging and memorable experience.

With an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 from 64 reviews, the tour has earned high praise for its knowledgeable guides and reliable transportation.

Reviewers highlighted encounters with dolphins, whales, and sea turtles as a highlight, as well as the beautiful scenery and enjoyable meals.

While some noted the small boat size and close seating arrangements, the overall value for money was rated 4.7 out of 5.

The tour’s combination of natural wonders, activity, and hospitality has clearly resonated with customers, making it a popular choice for exploring Madeira’s west coast.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is It Possible to Bring an Underwater Camera on the Tour?

Based on the tour details, passengers are allowed to bring their own snorkeling equipment, which suggests underwater cameras would likely be permitted. However, it’s always best to confirm with the tour operator ahead of time to ensure there are no restrictions.

Will There Be a Vegetarian/Vegan Lunch Option Available?

According to the tour details, there are no specific mentions of vegetarian or vegan lunch options. However, the tour includes lunch, so it’s likely the operator can accommodate dietary restrictions if requested in advance.

How Many Passengers Can Comfortably Fit on the Boat?

The boat can comfortably accommodate up to 12 passengers. While the seating arrangements are close, this allows for an intimate and personalized sailing experience along the stunning west coast of Madeira.

Is There an Opportunity to Listen to Local Music During the Tour?

There is no specific information provided about the opportunity to listen to local music during the tour. The tour focuses on exploring the west coast of Madeira and experiencing the natural scenery and wildlife.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Visit Specific Bays or Locations?

The tour can be customized to visit specific bays or locations based on guests’ preferences. However, the standard itinerary covers major west coast highlights like Ponta do Sol and Ribeira Brava. Additional customization may incur an extra fee.

Recap

This West Bays Sailing Tour from Funchal offers an exceptional opportunity to witness Madeira’s breathtaking natural beauty. Guests can spot marine life, enjoy a refreshing swim, and savor a delicious lunch surrounded by stunning landmarks. With knowledgeable guides and all necessary equipment provided, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure in Madeira’s pristine waters, making it a must-do activity for visitors to the island.

You can check if your dates are available here: