From Funchal: Whale and Dolphin Watching

Whale and dolphin watching off the coast of Funchal, Madeira offers an exciting opportunity to encounter these captivating marine mammals in their natural habitat. Departing from Rota dos Cetáceos, this 2.5-hour cruise provides a chance to observe a variety of species, led by knowledgeable guides including a marine biologist. The small group size of up to 18 passengers ensures an intimate experience, allowing for close encounters with the whales and dolphins. With easy booking and a flexible cancellation policy, this excursion promises an unforgettable journey into the world of these magnificent creatures. What insights might this tour provide into the lives and behaviors of these remarkable animals?

Key Points

• 2.5-hour whale and dolphin watching cruise departing from Rota dos Cetáceos, Funchal, with opportunities to view marine wildlife in a small group setting.
• Cruise prices range from $55.03 to $66.30 per person, with discounts available, and no upfront payment required for booking.
• Fast, semi-rigid boats accommodate up to 18 passengers, ensuring close encounters with marine life, guided by a knowledgeable marine biologist.
• Diverse marine species, including dolphins, whales, and turtles, can be observed, with the option to swim with dolphins for an additional fee.
• Flexible cancellation policy allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind for travelers.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Activity Overview

The experience offered is a whale and dolphin watching cruise from Funchal.

The cruise lasts 2.5 hours and departs from and returns to the Rota dos Cetáceos location in Funchal.

The activity is open to adults aged 12-99, children aged 6-11, and infants 5 and younger.

Participants can enjoy watching whales and dolphins in their natural habitat, with the possibility of swimming with dolphins for an additional fee.

The cruise is operated using small groups on a fleet of two fast, semi-rigid boats, each accommodating up to 18 passengers.

Pricing and Booking

Customers can save up to 17% on the whale and dolphin watching cruise from Funchal.

The cost ranges from $66.30 to $55.03 per person, depending on the age of the participants.

There’s no upfront payment required, as the reservation policy allows customers to reserve their spot now and pay later.

What’s more, the cancellation policy offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This flexible policy makes it easier for customers to plan their trip with peace of mind.

Boat and Group Size

The whale and dolphin watching cruise in Funchal utilizes a fleet of fast, semi-rigid boats that accommodate small groups. Each boat holds up to 18 passengers, allowing for an intimate and personalized experience.

The small group size ensures guests get close encounters with the marine wildlife. The boat’s agility enables it to safely navigate the waters and provide optimal views of the whales and dolphins in their natural habitat.

This approach creates an engaging and informative tour, as the marine biologist guide can easily interact with and educate the passengers throughout the journey.

Marine Life Encounters

On these whale and dolphin watching tours, participants can expect to encounter a variety of marine life in their natural habitats.

The tours offer the chance to spot dolphins, whales, and turtles up close. A knowledgeable marine biologist is on hand to provide information about the different species and their behaviors.

While swimming with dolphins is an additional cost, the opportunity to witness these magnificent creatures in their own environment is a highlight of the experience.

Guests are advised to secure front-row seats for the best views, as the small group size ensures an intimate and engaging encounter with the local marine wildlife.

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Tour Guidance and Amenities

Typically, a knowledgeable live tour guide fluent in English, French, and Portuguese accompanies the whale and dolphin watching cruises. They provide valuable information about the marine life encountered during the tour.

A marine biologist also joins the excursions, sharing their expertise on the various whale and dolphin species found in the waters around Funchal.

For your’ convenience, life vests are provided, and hotel pickup and drop-off service are included.

Travelers are advised to bring comfortable shoes, a windbreaker, a sun hat, swimwear, and sunscreen to fully enjoy the 2.5-hour cruise on the fast, semi-rigid boats.

What to Bring

Travelers’ packing list for the whale and dolphin watching cruise should include comfortable shoes, a windbreaker, a sun hat, swimwear, and sunscreen.

These items are essential to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience on the water. The windbreaker will protect against the sea breeze, while the sun hat and sunscreen will shield against the strong Funchal sun.

Comfortable shoes are a must for any on-board activities, and swimwear is recommended for those who wish to take a dip with the dolphins, albeit at an additional cost.

Customer Feedback

According to customer reviews, the whale and dolphin watching cruise in Funchal has received an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars based on 182 reviews.

Customers praise the knowledgeable tour guides, who are fluent in English, French, and Portuguese, as well as the marine biologist who provides insightful information about the wildlife.

The transportation and service also receive high marks, with a 4.7/5 and 4.6/5 rating respectively.

While swimming with dolphins is an additional cost, reviewers advise securing front seats for the best views.

Reservation and Cancellation

Customers can reserve the whale and dolphin watching cruise in Funchal without any upfront payment. They can take advantage of the "reserve now & pay later" policy, making it easy to secure their spot.

The tour also offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for those with changing plans. This cancellation policy allows for a full refund, ensuring customers can book with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use My Own Camera/Video Equipment on the Cruise?

Yes, passengers can use their own cameras and video equipment on the cruise. The tour allows guests to capture photos and videos of the whales, dolphins, and other marine life encountered during the 2.5-hour excursion.

Are There Any Dietary or Medical Requirements to Participate?

The tour doesn’t have any specific dietary or medical requirements to participate. Guests should notify the operator of any conditions or needs in advance to ensure a comfortable experience.

Is the Cruise Suitable for People With Disabilities or Mobility Issues?

The cruise generally accommodates people with disabilities or mobility issues, though it’s recommended to contact the operator in advance to discuss any special needs. Assistance is provided, but the boat’s accessibility may be limited.

Will I Be Able to Take Photos or Videos of the Dolphins/Whales?

Participants can take photos and videos of the whales and dolphins during the cruise. The tour provides an optimal viewing experience, with small group sizes and guidance from a marine biologist to enhance the wildlife observation.

Can I Purchase Additional Activities or Souvenirs During the Cruise?

Yes, you can purchase additional activities, such as swimming with dolphins, for an extra cost during the cruise. Souvenirs aren’t mentioned, but you may be able to purchase them at the starting/ending location.

Recap

From Funchal, visitors can experience the thrill of a 2.5-hour whale and dolphin watching cruise. Led by knowledgeable guides, the intimate boat accommodates small groups, ensuring close encounters with marine life. With easy booking and a flexible cancellation policy, this excursion offers an unforgettable journey into the natural habitat of these magnificent creatures.

You can check if your dates are available here: