Funchal’s dolphin watching scene is refreshingly straightforward and well-organized. The best outings run 2.5-3 hours aboard eco-friendly catamarans, giving nature lovers reliable sightings of pilot whales and bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat. We’re especially fond of the small-group yacht excursions – they offer intimate wildlife encounters with expert naturalist guides who know these waters inside and out. Private charters work well for families, limiting groups to 6 people and providing flexibility with timing. For those short on time, speedy zodiac tours guarantee marine life sightings while covering more ground. Let’s look at our favorite dolphin watching tours from Funchal’s harbor.
Key Points
- Small group tours with a maximum of 12 participants offer personalized attention and magnificent views of Madeira’s coastline.
- Private charters provide a high-satisfaction personalized experience for up to 6 guests, with amenities like light refreshments and snorkeling equipment.
- Adventure tours on speedboats guarantee wildlife sightings and include hotel pickup, transportation, and lunch.
- Combined experiences integrate dolphin watching with other activities like wine tasting and skywalk, providing a full-day adventure.
- Highly-rated customer reviews, with a 4.5-star rating from 1,584 reviews, indicate the overall quality of the dolphin watching tours in Funchal.
Madeira Dolphin and Whale Watching on a Ecological Catamaran
Madeira Dolphin and Whale Watching on a Ecological Catamaran offers visitors an opportunity to spot diverse marine life, including pilot whales, bottlenose dolphins, and sperm whales, during a 2.5 to 3-hour cruise departing from Funchal Marina.
Rated 4.5 stars from 1,584 reviews, the experience provides insights on Madeira’s ocean ecology and landmarks from the knowledgeable crew. Priced from €35.00 per person, the tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, with a morning or afternoon departure option.
Lunch is included, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start. While most guests rave about the great wildlife sightings and stunning views, some have noted disappointment due to missed sightings or large group sizes.
Read our full review: Madeira Dolphin and Whale Watching on a Ecological Catamaran Review
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Whale and Dolphin Watching Tour in Madeira
Situated along Madeira’s stunning coastline, the Whale and Dolphin Watching Tour offers visitors an exceptional opportunity to witness these magnificent marine creatures in their natural habitat.
With a maximum of 12 people, the small-group yacht cruise provides magnificent views of Madeira’s coastline and the chance to spot whales, dolphins, and other marine life.
The tour includes light refreshments, snorkel equipment, and a choice of departure times throughout the day.
While wildlife sightings can’t be guaranteed, the tour has an impressive 99% recommendation rate from travelers, who praise the attentive staff and educational moments.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience, it’s a must-try activity for visitors to Madeira.
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Private Dolphin and Whale Watching Tour in Madeira
For an exceptional opportunity to witness the marine wonders of Madeira, travelers can embark on a private dolphin and whale watching tour.
This 2.5-hour private charter by motor yacht departs from Calheta, offering a personalized experience for up to 6 guests. The tour boasts an impressive 99% recommendation rate from 490 reviews, with highlights including sightings of dolphins, sea turtles, and other marine life.
Amenities on board include light refreshments, snorkeling equipment, and shower facilities. While wildlife spotting can’t be guaranteed, the professional and friendly crew strive to provide an informative and enjoyable outing.
Priced from $506.81 per group, this tour offers a flexible schedule and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
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Dolphin – Whale – Turtle – Bird Watching
On the scenic Madeira coastline, travelers can embark on an exhilarating dolphin, whale, turtle, and bird-watching adventure.
This fast-paced speedboat tour covers large distances, ensuring guests have the best chance of spotting a variety of marine life. With a small group size, travelers receive personalized attention from knowledgeable local guides.
The tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, and a delicious lunch. Although not suitable for those with certain medical conditions, the experience boasts a 93% traveler recommendation rate based on 317 reviews.
Guests have the opportunity to witness Bottlenose dolphins, Pilot whales, and a range of other fascinating creatures in their natural habitat, with the guarantee of wildlife sightings or a free next trip.
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Whale and Dolphin Watching Tour – Funchal
The Whale and Dolphin Watching Tour in Funchal, Portugal, is a must-do activity for nature enthusiasts. With a 95% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this tour offers a high chance of spotting whales or dolphins.
Aboard a small group speedboat, travelers can enjoy scenic views of Madeira while learning about marine life from the knowledgeable skipper. The 2-hour tour departs from the Marina do Funchal, providing easy access.
While not recommended for those with back problems or medical conditions, the experience is praised for its wildlife sightings, including bottlenose dolphins, pilot whales, and turtles.
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Wines Tasting Experience and Skywalk With Dolphin Watching
Embarking on an immersive day-long adventure, travelers can discover the best of Funchal’s natural and cultural offerings through the Wines Tasting Experience and Skywalk With Dolphin Watching tour.
Highlights include a wine tasting and vineyard tour, a visit to the scenic Girao Cape, and a dolphin watching boat tour.
The jeep tour starts at 9 am, concluding at 1:30 pm, followed by the dolphin watching segment from 3 to 6 pm.
Transfers from Funchal and the port are provided, with Wi-Fi, safety gear, and first aid on board.
While the wine tasting receives high praise, the dolphin watching has received mixed reviews regarding lack of commentary and group size.
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Amazing Skywalk, Wine Tasting & 4×4 Adventure + Dolphin Watching
Travelers can enjoy a full-day small-group tour from Funchal, Portugal, exploring the area’s natural wonders and cultural delights.
This highly-rated tour offers an amazing experience, including a visit to the Cabo Girão, one of Europe’s highest cliffs, and a whale and dolphin-watching cruise. Participants will also enjoy wine tasting and a 4×4 adventure through scenic routes.
The tour includes hotel pickup, safety instruction, and all necessary equipment. With a maximum of 15 travelers per group, the experience promises an intimate and personalized exploration of Funchal’s stunning landscapes and marine life.
Reviewers highlight the engaging guides, impressive sights, and overall enjoyment of the diverse activities.
Read our full review: Amazing Skywalk, Wine Tasting & 4×4 Adventure + Dolphin Watching Review
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Magic Dolphin Celebrity
Often, the star attraction on Funchal’s dolphin watching tours is a local celebrity – a charismatic bottle-nosed dolphin known affectionately as the “Magic Dolphin”.
Visitors can embark on a 3-hour excursion to explore Madeira by land and sea, including a catamaran trip to view the coastal scenery and spot the playful dolphin.
The tours provide a driver/guide, live commentary, use of snorkeling equipment, and refreshments.
They’re wheelchair and stroller accessible, with a maximum of 25 travelers, ensuring an intimate wildlife experience.
Prices start from €50 per person, with a lowest price guarantee and flexible cancellation policy.
With 43 reviews and a 5.0 rating, it’s no wonder 100% of travelers recommend the “Magic Dolphin Celebrity” tour.
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Sum Up
Funchal offers a range of top-notch dolphin watching tours. From eco-friendly catamarans to private excursions, visitors can spot these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Many tours also include other wildlife sightings and activities like wine tasting and skywalk experiences. With so many options, there’s a dolphin watching adventure to suit every traveler’s interests and budget.