From Funchal: Whales and Dolphin Adventure Tour

Set out on a thrilling expedition to witness the majestic whales and dolphins that inhabit the pristine waters off Funchal’s coast. This two-hour adventure tour offers a remarkable 99% chance of spotting these magnificent marine creatures. Aboard a speedy and intimate boat, you’ll enjoy personalized attention from knowledgeable guides as you learn about the captivating world beneath the waves. If conditions permit, you may even have the opportunity to snorkel alongside the dolphins, creating unforgettable memories. With a stellar reputation and a flexible cancellation policy, this tour promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you yearning for more.

This experience made our list of the 20 Best Whale Watching Experiences In Madeira.

Key Points

• A 2-hour excursion from Funchal to spot whales and dolphins with a 99% sighting chance for a maximum of 12 participants at a discounted rate of £37.66 per person.
• Chance to witness whales and dolphins in their natural habitat, with the possibility of snorkeling alongside dolphins depending on conditions.
• Personalized attention from knowledgeable live guides, Camilla and Vlad, who are rated 4.8/5 for their expertise and friendliness.
• Not recommended for children under 10 or pregnant women, as the tour operates under animal welfare rules in consultation with World Animal Protection.
• Full refund for cancellations made up to 24 hours in advance, and an opportunity to reschedule if the tour is canceled by the operator.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The "Whales and Dolphin Adventure Tour" from Funchal takes adventurers on a captivating 2-hour excursion to spot these magnificent marine creatures in their natural habitat.

Priced at a discounted rate of £37.66 per person, this tour boasts a 99% chance of sighting whales or dolphins. The tour operates with a maximum of 12 participants, ensuring an intimate experience, and features a live guide available in English and Portuguese.

The meeting point is at the new marina of Funchal, and free cancellation is offered up to 24 hours in advance.

Snorkeling equipment is included, but no food is served on board, though nearby cafes are available.

Experience Highlights

Embarking on this whales and dolphin adventure promises an unparalleled opportunity to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

With a 99% chance of spotting dolphins or whales, the speedboat tour allows guests to cover larger distances quickly, maximizing the potential for sightings.

The intimate experience, limited to 12 participants, ensures personalized attention from the knowledgeable live guide.

Depending on conditions, visitors may even have the chance to enter the water and snorkel alongside the dolphins.

Complementing the wildlife experience, the tour provides complimentary use of snorkeling equipment, though no food is served onboard.

Customer Reviews

Customers have overwhelmingly praised this whales and dolphin adventure tour, awarding it an impressive 4.5-star rating based on over 1,100 reviews.

The guides, Camilla and Vlad, have been particularly highlighted for their exceptional knowledge and friendly demeanor, earning a 4.8/5 rating.

The tour’s transportation and service have also been well-received, scoring 4.7/5 and 4.6/5, respectively.

While some reviews mention limited animal sightings, the tour’s organizers emphasize the unpredictable nature of nature.

The tour’s strong customer reviews suggest it offers a remarkable opportunity to witness these majestic marine creatures in their natural habitat.

• Guides praised for knowledge and friendliness (4.8/5)
• Transportation and service highly rated (4.7/5, 4.6/5)
• Some reviews note limited animal sightings
• Tour organizers highlight nature’s unpredictability

Important Information

Not all travelers may be suitable for this whales and dolphin adventure tour. The tour isn’t recommended for children under 10 years old or pregnant women.

The tour is also weather-dependent, and conditions can change quickly, so it’s important to be prepared for the unpredictable nature of the activity.

The tour operates under animal welfare rules in consultation with World Animal Protection, ensuring a responsible and ethical experience.

Participants should bring swimwear, towels, sunscreen, and a jacket, and it’s recommended to arrive 20 minutes before the scheduled departure.

Parking is available at the Almirante Reis parking lot, not the Marina Park, which is private.

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What to Bring

Participants should bring a few essential items for the whales and dolphin adventure tour. The tour operates in the open ocean, so a swimsuit, towel, and sunscreen are musts.

A light jacket is also recommended, as the weather can change quickly. Plus, it’s important to arrive 20 minutes before the scheduled departure to ensure a smooth start to the experience.

• Swimwear
• Towel
• Sunscreen
• Light jacket

The tour operators provide snorkeling equipment, but bringing your own can enhance the experience.

Remember to check the parking details and plan your arrival accordingly for this exciting whale and dolphin adventure.

Meeting Point and Parking

The new marina of Funchal, in front of door 4, serves as the designated meeting point for the whales and dolphin adventure tour.

This convenient location allows easy access for participants. Parking is available at the Almirante Reis parking lot, which is nearby but not at the private Marina Park.

Guests are advised to arrive 20 minutes before the scheduled departure to ensure a smooth start to the tour.

With these clear instructions, travelers can confidently make their way to the meeting point and enjoy the unforgettable experience of exploring the waters surrounding Funchal in search of whales and dolphins.

Tour Cancellation and Refund

Guests can cancel their whales and dolphin adventure tour up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This free cancellation policy provides flexibility and peace of mind, allowing guests to plan their trip with confidence.

• The tour operator offers a 100% refund for cancellations made within the 24-hour window, no questions asked.

• Cancellations outside the 24-hour timeframe may be subject to partial or no refund, depending on the operator’s policies.

• Guests are advised to review the cancellation and refund terms carefully before booking to ensure they align with their travel plans.

• In the event of a tour cancellation by the operator, guests will receive a full refund or the opportunity to reschedule their adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Drinks on the Tour?

You can’t bring your own snacks and drinks on the tour, as no food is served on board. However, there are cafes nearby where you can purchase refreshments before or after the tour.

Is There a Place to Store My Belongings During the Tour?

There’s no dedicated storage space on the boat, but you can leave your belongings in a safe place at the meeting point. Participants are advised to bring only essential items they’ll need during the 2-hour tour.

Are There Any Restrictions on Photography or Videography During the Tour?

The tour allows photography and videography during the excursion. Guests are encouraged to capture their experiences with whales and dolphins in their natural habitat, but the guide may ask them to avoid disturbing the animals.

Can I Request a Specific Language for the Tour Guide?

Yes, you can request a specific language for the tour guide. The tour offers live guides in both English and Portuguese, so you can choose the language you prefer when booking.

What Happens in the Event of Inclement Weather During the Tour?

In the event of inclement weather, the tour will be canceled and guests will receive a full refund. The operator closely monitors weather conditions and will notify participants of any changes or cancellations.

Recap

The "From Funchal: Whales and Dolphin Adventure Tour" offers an exhilarating opportunity to witness the grandeur of marine life. With a high chance of spotting whales and dolphins, personalized attention from knowledgeable guides, and a free cancellation policy, this 2-hour excursion promises unforgettable memories. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or seeking an adventure, this tour is a must-try for those visiting Funchal.

You can check if your dates are available here: