10 Best Kayak And Canoe Tours In Madeira

Kayaking and canoeing along Madeira’s dramatic coastline ranks among Europe’s most rewarding paddling experiences. The best routes concentrate around three main areas: the marine-rich Garajau Nature Reserve, the serene shores of Porto Santo island, and the rugged peninsula of Ponta de São Lourenço.

I especially love the half-day dolphin-spotting tours from Funchal, combining paddling with wildlife watching in crystal-clear waters. The Câmara de Lobos private tours deserve special mention – they provide intimate access to hidden coves and dramatic cliffs while avoiding tourist crowds.

Let’s explore Madeira’s top kayak and canoe adventures that belong on your itinerary.

Key Points

• The Garajau Nature Reserve offers a highly rated 3-hour tour combining kayaking and snorkeling, with all necessary gear provided by knowledgeable instructors.
• The Porto Santo Kayak Tour provides a 1.5-hour adventure exploring caves and Zimbralinho Beach, with hotel pickup/drop-off and essential gear included.
• Half-day kayak tours in Madeira start at $38.39 per person, offering scenic adventures and opportunities to spot dolphins and unique coastal views.
• The Funchal Kayak Experience is a 2-hour boat trip combined with kayaking along Funchal’s coast, suitable for beginners and experienced paddlers.
• The Ponta de São Lourenço guided kayak experience accommodates a maximum of 10 participants, includes life jackets and a boat shuttle, and is priced at SEK 449.17 per person.

Kayak and Snorkeling Tour in Underwater Nature Reserve Garajau

For those seeking an immersive adventure in Madeira’s stunning underwater world, the Kayak and Snorkeling Tour in Underwater Nature Reserve Garajau delivers an unforgettable experience.

Rated 4.5 stars with a Badge of Excellence, this 3-hour tour allows you to explore the rich marine life of the Garajau reserve.

Kayaking and snorkeling are combined, with all necessary equipment provided. Knowledgeable guides ensure a safe and enjoyable journey, while you may spot diverse fish species and captivating jellyfish.

Though not recommended for non-swimmers, this tour offers a chance to connect with Madeira’s breathtaking underwater nature.

With a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation, it’s an excellent option for adventurous travelers.

Read our full review: Kayak and Snorkeling Tour in Underwater Nature Reserve Garajau Review
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Porto Santo: Kayak Tour From Ponta Calheta

Set out on a captivating kayak tour from Ponta Calheta, Porto Santo, and learn about the island’s stunning volcanic landscape.

During this 1.5-hour adventure, you’ll explore caves, rock formations, and the pristine Zimbralinho Beach. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll discover the area’s rich geological history and marvel at the breathtaking scenery.

The tour includes convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as essential gear like life jackets and a small water bottle.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, you can plan your experience with confidence.

This highly-rated adventure offers excellent value, with an average 4.7/5 customer satisfaction score.

Read our full review: Porto Santo: Kayak Tour From Ponta Calheta Review
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Half Day Kayak Tours

Madeira’s picturesque coastline beckons visitors to explore its hidden coves and dramatic cliffs from the comfort of a kayak.

The half-day kayak tours operated by Madeira Radical offer an exhilarating and affordable way to experience this stunning Portuguese island. Starting at just $38.39 per person, the tours take guests on a scenic paddling adventure, complete with snorkeling gear and a knowledgeable guide.

With an impressive 4.5-star rating from 38 reviews, these tours are a hit with travelers. Whether you’re spotting dolphins or admiring the views, the half-day kayak experience is a fantastic way to learn about Madeira’s natural beauty.

Read our full review: Half Day Kayak Tours Review
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Funchal Boat Trip With Kayak Experience

Adventurous travelers can hop aboard a boat and take to the waves for a memorable kayak tour along Funchal’s picturesque coastline.

The 2-hour Funchal Boat Trip With Kayak Experience offers the perfect blend of open-water adventure and scenic city views. Suitable for beginners and experienced paddlers alike, the guided tour takes you along the coast, where you’ll revel in the unique mix of natural landscapes and urban vistas.

After the kayak session, you can enjoy a refreshing swim in the Atlantic. Priced from $41.99 per person, the tour includes all necessary equipment, a boat ride, and hotel pickup and drop-off.

Just remember to pack your swimsuit, towel, and sunscreen for a sun-soaked day on the water.

Read our full review: Funchal Boat Trip With Kayak Experience Review
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Kayak Experience @ Ponta De São Lourenço

Along the rugged eastern coast of Madeira, the Kayak Experience at Ponta de São Lourenço offers a chance to explore the area’s striking natural beauty.

With a maximum of 10 travelers per tour, the experience boasts an overall rating of 4.0 from 52 reviews. The tour includes life jackets, a return boat shuttle, and snacks and soda.

While not wheelchair accessible, the activity is near public transportation and suitable for most travelers. Positive reviews highlight knowledgeable guides and beautiful scenery, though some note coordination issues.

At SEK 449.17 per person, it’s a unique way to view Madeira’s coastline, though some suggest booking directly for kayaking.

Read our full review: Kayak Experience @ Ponta De São Lourenço Review
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Madeira: Garajau Nature Reserve Kayak and Snorkel Tour

Travelers seeking an exhilarating way to explore Madeira’s stunning Garajau Nature Reserve can embark on a captivating kayak and snorkel tour.

This 3-hour adventure offers a glimpse into the island’s vibrant marine life and colonial past. After a brief kayaking instruction, participants paddle to the nature reserve, where they can relax on a pebble beach and take an optional cliff dive before snorkeling in crystal-clear waters teeming with native species.

With top-notch equipment and a knowledgeable, multilingual guide, this tour provides excellent value, earning high praise from past guests for its organization, scenic views, and incredible snorkeling spots.

Read our full review: Madeira: Garajau Nature Reserve Kayak and Snorkel Tour Review
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Camera De Lobos: Private Guided Kayaking Tour in Madeira

A private guided kayaking tour in Câmara de Lobos, Madeira, offers an intimate and immersive way to explore the island’s stunning coastline.

Available for 1.5 hours, this tour takes you across crystal-clear waters, allowing you to discover the massive Cabo Girão cliffs and admire the lush landscapes and hidden beaches.

The tour includes snorkeling gear for underwater exploration, and your guide will provide GoPro pictures to capture the experience.

Suitable for all ages and fitness levels, this tour is a perfect way to learn about Madeira’s natural beauty.

With a 5/5 rating from previous guests, it’s an adventure not to be missed.

Read our full review: Camera De Lobos: Private Guided Kayaking Tour in Madeira Review
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Funchal: Private Sunset Boat Trip With Snorkeling and Paddle

For those seeking a truly unique experience in Funchal, the private sunset boat trip with snorkeling and paddle offers an unforgettable adventure.

Imagine gliding across the tranquil waters as the sun dips below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the rugged coastline. The tour includes the opportunity to don snorkeling gear and explore the vibrant marine life beneath the surface.

Afterwards, guests can try their hand at stand-up paddleboarding, taking in the stunning views from a different perspective.

Whether you’re looking for romance, relaxation, or adventure, this private outing delivers an exceptional way to experience the natural beauty of Madeira.

Read our full review: Funchal: Private Sunset Boat Trip With Snorkeling and Paddle Review
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Madeiras Marine Reserve: Kayak & Snorkelling Trip

Setting out on a captivating kayak and snorkeling adventure, guests can enjoy the crystal-clear waters of Madeira’s renowned Garajau Underwater Natural Reserve.

Priced from $51.44 per person, this 2-hour tour is led by multilingual guides and limited to just 10 participants, ensuring an intimate experience.

Kayak along the coast, spotting native marine life like sea bream, barracudas, and turtles, then strap on snorkels to explore the underwater flora and fauna.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and convenient pickup and drop-off services, this Madeiras Marine Reserve excursion promises a memorable blend of adventure and natural wonder.

Read our full review: Madeiras Marine Reserve: Kayak & Snorkelling Trip Review
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Quinta Do Lorde: Kayak Experience to Ponta De São Lourenço

Adventurous kayakers can now explore the stunning Ponta de São Lourenço Natural Reserve, departing from the Marina Quinta do Lorde.

For just $39.89 per person, you’ll enjoy a 1-day kayak experience limited to 10 participants.

After a short zodiac boat ride, you’ll paddle along the rugged coastline, taking in the breathtaking views.

The tour includes a boat ride, kayak, life jacket, and an English-speaking guide.

You can also stop for a coffee or snack at the Casa do Sardinha Nature Spot Café and go for a swim.

With over 50 reviews averaging 4.3/5, this is a must-do activity for nature lovers visiting Madeira.

Read our full review: Quinta Do Lorde: Kayak Experience to Ponta De São Lourenço Review
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Sum Up

Madeira offers an array of captivating kayak and canoe tours. From exploring the Underwater Nature Reserve Garajau to paddling along the stunning Ponta de São Lourenço, there’s something for every outdoor enthusiast. Whether you’re seeking a half-day adventure or a private sunset experience, these tours provide a unique way to learn about Madeira’s breathtaking marine environments. With so many options, it’s easy to find the perfect kayaking or canoeing experience to suit your interests and skill level.