Funchal: Dolphin and Whale Watching Sunset Sailing Tour

Set out on a captivating 3-hour adventure off the coast of Funchal, Madeira. The Dolphin and Whale Watching Sunset Sailing Tour transports you to a world of marine wonders, where you’ll have the chance to spot dolphins, whales, and sea turtles in their natural habitat. While sipping complimentary drinks and savoring delectable snacks, you’ll also get to experience the thrill of snorkeling at the iconic Cabo Girão, Europe’s highest sea cliff. As the sun dips below the horizon, prepare to be mesmerized by the breathtaking display of colors painting the sky. This tour promises an unforgettable experience, leaving you eager to discover more.

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

Key Points

• This 3-hour sunset sailing tour in Funchal, Madeira offers the opportunity to spot dolphins, whales, and sea turtles in their natural habitats.
• Participants can swim and snorkel at Cabo Girão, Europe’s highest sea cliff, and enjoy beautiful sunset views and stunning coastal landscapes.
• The tour includes an open bar, snorkeling gear, and food, providing a memorable and relaxing experience.
• The tour is priced at KČ1,127 per person and has a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.
• Past participants have reported awe-inspiring wildlife encounters, friendly guides, and overall high satisfaction with the tour.

Tour Overview

This Dolphin and Whale Watching Sunset Sailing Tour in Funchal offers a 3-hour activity that allows participants to see dolphins, whales, and sea turtles in their natural habitat.

The tour departs from Praça do Povo, Cais 8, with a maximum group size of 20 people. It’s available in English and Portuguese, and includes an open bar, snorkeling equipment, and food.

Participants should bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a jacket. The tour costs from Kč1,127 per person and has a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.

While marine life sightings aren’t guaranteed, alternative dates are offered in case of bad weather.

Activity Highlights

The tour offers several highlights for participants. Attendees have the opportunity to spot dolphins, whales, and sea turtles in their natural habitat.

They can also swim and snorkel at Cabo Girão, Europe’s highest sea cliff at 1,903 feet. Visitors will enjoy a beautiful sunset as they take in the stunning coastal landscapes.

The tour includes a complimentary adult beverage, adding to the relaxing experience. With a group size of up to 20 people, the tour provides an intimate setting to appreciate the natural wonders of Madeira.

While marine life sightings aren’t guaranteed, the tour offers alternative dates in case of weather cancellations, ensuring a memorable experience.

Destination and Duration

Typically, the dolphin and whale watching tour takes place in the picturesque city of Funchal, located on the southern coast of the Portuguese island of Madeira.

This 3-hour sunset sailing tour allows participants to explore the local marine life and enjoy breathtaking coastal landscapes. Departing from Praça do Povo, the tour takes guests on a journey to spot dolphins, whales, and sea turtles in their natural habitats.

After the wildlife viewing, the tour offers the opportunity to swim and snorkel at the iconic Cabo Girão, the highest sea cliff in Europe.

With a complimentary beverage included, the tour promises a memorable sunset experience along Funchal’s scenic coastline.

Pricing and Cancellation

The tour is priced from Kč1,127 per person, making it an accessible option for travelers.

Plus, the tour offers a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for flexibility in planning. This ensures that customers can book with confidence, knowing they can receive a full refund if their plans change.

Given the popularity of the tour, it’s advisable to check availability early, as spots may sell out quickly.

Wildlife Encounters

One of the primary draws of this dolphin and whale watching tour is the opportunity to encounter these magnificent marine creatures in their natural habitat.

Travelers have a chance to spot a variety of species, including dolphins, whales, and even sea turtles. The tour takes place in an area known for its high concentration of marine life, and the experienced guides are skilled at locating and observing these animals without disturbing them.

Witnessing these creatures up close in their natural environment is a truly awe-inspiring experience that provides a deeper appreciation for the wonders of the ocean.

Amenities and Inclusions

Complementing the thrill of wildlife encounters, this tour offers an array of thoughtful amenities that elevate the overall experience. Guests will enjoy a complimentary adult beverage while taking in the breathtaking sunset views.

The tour also includes snorkeling equipment, allowing participants to explore the underwater world of Cabo Girão, the highest sea cliff in Europe. Plus, a delightful array of food is provided throughout the journey.

The tour is further enhanced by:

• Hotel pickup and drop-off for added convenience
• Group size limited to 20 participants for a more intimate experience
• Availability of both English and Portuguese languages
• Flexibility with alternative tour dates in case of inclement weather
• Hassle-free cancellation policy with a full refund up to 24 hours in advance.

Tour Logistics

Commencing at the Praça do Povo in Funchal’s Cais 8, guests meet at the kiosk in front of door number 2 (Gavião Madeira) to embark on this captivating dolphin and whale watching tour.

The group size is limited to 20 participants, with the tour offered in English and Portuguese.

Guests should come prepared with comfortable shoes, swimwear, towels, sunscreen, and a light jacket.

Oversized luggage and smoking, except for electronic cigarettes, aren’t allowed on board.

The tour lasts approximately 3 hours and includes an open bar, snorkeling equipment, and food.

However, the tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments.

Customer Feedback

According to the customer reviews, the dolphin and whale watching tour in Funchal has consistently received high ratings, with an overall score of 4.7 out of 5 based on over 1,186 reviews.

Customers praised the tour’s friendly and knowledgeable guides, rating them 4.9/5. The transportation and value for money were also highlighted, scoring 4.8/5 and 4.7/5, respectively.

While the service quality received a 4/5 rating, reviewers were overwhelmingly positive about the tour’s highlights, including:

• Opportunity to see dolphins, whales, and sea turtles
• Stunning sunset views
• Complimentary adult beverage
• Cabo Girão snorkeling experience
• Overall exceptional experience

Frequently Asked Questions

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

You can’t bring your own food and drinks on the tour, as the tour includes an open bar and complimentary food. However, you can bring a light jacket or snacks if needed.

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for Children?

There is no minimum age for children on this tour. Infants and young children are welcome, but parents should consider the child’s ability to participate in the activities and remain engaged for the 3-hour duration.

Do I Need to Know How to Swim to Participate?

No, one doesn’t need to know how to swim to participate in this tour. The tour provides snorkeling equipment, and the swimming portion is optional. However, participants should be comfortable in the water.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour duration can’t be extended. The standard tour is 3 hours long, and there’s no option to add more time. The company likely maintains a tight schedule to accommodate multiple tours per day.

Can I Request a Special Dietary Meal on the Tour?

Unfortunately, the tour does not offer special dietary meals. The tour provides a complimentary drink, but guests must bring their own food and snacks. Special requests can’t be accommodated, so participants with dietary needs should plan accordingly.

Recap

The Funchal: Dolphin and Whale Watching Sunset Sailing Tour offers a breathtaking adventure that combines wildlife encounters with stunning coastal views. Guests can spot dolphins, whales, and sea turtles while enjoying an open bar, snorkeling at Cabo Girão, and witnessing a spectacular sunset. This 3-hour tour provides an unforgettable experience that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.