When it comes to experiencing Madeira’s coast, nothing beats a day on the water. The Discover Beautiful Bays Bonita da Madeira tour offers a chance to explore the island’s most scenic spots from the deck of a traditional wooden gullet. Designed for those who love nature, stunning views, and a touch of adventure, this trip promises a relaxing yet captivating experience.
What we find particularly appealing are the opportunities to spot dolphins and whales—Mercury might even be in retrograde, but the marine life still puts on a show. Plus, the chance to swim in crystal-clear waters at Baía d’Abra makes this an outing that’s both scenic and refreshing. One thing to keep in mind, however, is that the tour is about 5 hours long, which might be a bit tight if you prefer very leisurely days or are prone to seasickness. This adventure is best suited for travelers who enjoy marine scenery, wildlife spotting, and are comfortable on a boat for a few hours.
Key Points
- Stunning coastal views from a classic wooden gullet
- Wildlife sightings including dolphins and whales (often seen)
- Opportunities to swim in pristine waters at Baía d’Abra
- Delicious onboard meal served during the cruise
- Hotel pickup and drop-off included for convenience
- Flexible cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance
A Closer Look at the Madeira Sailing Experience
This tour, operated by Destination Travel Solutions, offers a 6-hour window that includes pickup, the sailing adventure, and drop-off. The core of the experience is a five-hour journey aboard Bonita da Madeira, a beautifully maintained 23-meter wooden gullet. It’s worth noting that the vessel’s classic design adds romantic charm to the voyage, making it a delightful way to see Madeira’s coast in style.
The adventure begins with pickup at one of 57 designated locations around Funchal, which makes it convenient no matter where you’re staying. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a benefit for travelers who prefer to skip the hassle of finding a meeting point. Once aboard, the crew—described as friendly and professional—sets the tone for a relaxed, informative trip.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Machico.
The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Do
Stop 1: Starting Point
The tour kicks off with a pickup from a wide selection of hotels or nearby locations, giving you a smooth start. Expect to be greeted by your guide with a friendly introduction and a quick overview of the day ahead.
Stop 2: Scenic Bus Ride (30 minutes)
After about half an hour on land, you’ll transfer onto the boat, which offers scenic views of the coast as you head toward your first stop.
Stop 3: Baía d’Abra
This is the star of the tour for many. Baía d’Abra is a secluded bay perfect for swimming and relaxing in clear waters. The guided cruise offers plenty of opportunities for sightseeing and wildlife watching. Several reviewers mention the stunning scenery and how the bay’s tranquility makes it an ideal spot to unwind in nature’s embrace.
Stop 4: Return and Relaxation
After about two and a half hours at Baía d’Abra, the boat heads back, with scenic views en route. The crew often provides commentary on the coastline’s features, adding context to what you’re seeing.
Stop 5: Drop-off
You’ll return to your hotel or a nearby location, ending a well-rounded day. The tour ensures you’re back with plenty of time to enjoy the rest of your Madeira stay.
What Makes This Tour Stand Out?
Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the chance to spot dolphins and whales, which can be a magical experience. Several reviews mention that the marine mammals often put on a show, whether leaping out of the water or just surfacing nearby. These sightings are not guaranteed, but many travelers report seeing playful dolphins or even whales.
Swimmers will love the chance to cool off in the calm, clear waters of Baía d’Abra. The bay’s sheltered setting provides a safe environment for swimming, and the water’s transparency is often described as “crystal-clear,” perfect for underwater photos.
Food lovers will enjoy a hot meal prepared on board, which adds a satisfying element to the trip. The menu isn’t detailed in the provided info, but the inclusion of a hot meal is a rare treat on sailing tours, often transforming this from a simple boat ride into a proper meal experience.
Views and photo opportunities abound with the coast’s rugged cliffs, hidden coves, and panoramic vistas. Many reviews praise the stunning scenery—an ideal backdrop for photos or just soaking in the natural beauty.
The Experience of the Wooden Gullet
The vessel’s classic wooden design adds a nostalgic charm that many travelers find more authentic and inviting than modern boats. It’s a gentle, stable platform for sightseeing, and the open deck allows for unobstructed views in all directions.
The crew’s friendly demeanor creates a laid-back atmosphere, and their knowledge enriches the trip with interesting facts about Madeira’s marine life and coastline. The boat’s size and design provide an intimacy that larger cruise ships often lack, making it easier to chat and connect with other travelers.
More Great Tours NearbyPractical Considerations
While the tour offers great value—especially with hotel pickup, a hot meal, and wildlife watching—there are some points to consider. The duration of 5 hours on the water might be too long for travelers prone to seasickness or those expecting a more leisurely pace on land. Also, since the tour is weather-dependent, rough seas can affect the experience, though the boat’s size and stability tend to mitigate this.
Pricing should be viewed as an all-in package, combining transport, meals, and the sailing. For travelers seeking an authentic, scenic, and wildlife-filled day with added comfort, the cost reflects the convenience and quality of the experience.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This sailing trip is ideal for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those looking to explore Madeira’s coast from a different perspective. It’s suited to couples, families with older children, or groups seeking a mix of adventure and relaxation. Since it involves being on the water for a few hours, those with seasickness concerns should prepare accordingly.
If you’re a fan of scenic vistas, marine animals, or simply want a memorable day away from the bustling land-based sights, this tour will likely satisfy. The inclusion of a hot meal and hotel pickup makes it a hassle-free way to enjoy Madeira’s coastal charm.
The Sum Up
The Discover Beautiful Bays Bonita da Madeira tour offers a charming, scenic, and wildlife-rich experience that showcases Madeira’s rugged coast from the deck of a beautiful wooden gullet. With chances to see dolphins and whales, swim in clear waters, and enjoy a delicious onboard meal, it combines relaxation with adventure in a way that feels authentic and inviting.
This tour’s greatest strength lies in its stunning views and the chance to connect with nature in a comfortable setting. It’s particularly well suited for those eager to see Madeira from the water, wildlife lovers, and travelers who appreciate the romance of a traditional sailing vessel.
While it may not be the best option for those with limited mobility or seasickness issues, for most visitors, it offers a memorable escape into the natural beauty of Madeira’s coast. The combination of scenic beauty, wildlife, and friendly service makes this a worthwhile addition to your Madeira itinerary.
FAQ
How long is the entire tour?
The full experience lasts around 6 hours, including pickup, the sailing trip, and drop-off. The actual sailing time is about 5 hours.
Are hotel pickups available?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at over 50 different locations around Funchal, making it very convenient.
What should I bring with me?
It’s recommended to bring a hat, swimwear, a towel, a camera, drinks, and sunscreen for comfort and safety during the trip.
Is food provided?
Yes, a hot meal is included during the cruise, offering a satisfying break and a chance to refuel while enjoying the views.
Can I see marine wildlife?
Many travelers report sightings of dolphins and even whales, though it’s not guaranteed. The crew often provides commentary to enhance the wildlife experience.
Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, it can be enjoyable for families, especially those who enjoy boat trips and outdoor adventures. However, consider seasickness and the length of the trip when planning.
This sailing adventure offers a wonderful way to see Madeira’s coast with comfort, charm, and a good dose of nature. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful day at sea or an exciting wildlife encounter, it’s a memorable way to experience the island’s natural beauty.
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