Dolphin and Whale Watching Catamaran Cruise From Funchal

The Dolphin and Whale Watching Catamaran Cruise from Funchal, Madeira offers an exciting opportunity to witness the incredible marine life in their natural habitat. Guests can embark on a 3-hour tour along the south coast of the island, with the potential to spot a variety of cetaceans and even take a refreshing swim at Cabo Girão. The cruise comes with a range of inclusions, from a friendly guide to food and drinks, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience. But the true highlight of this tour is the chance to witness the majestic creatures of the ocean up close, a sight that is sure to leave a lasting impression on any adventurer.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Madeira.

Key Points

• This 3-hour dolphin and whale watching tour from Funchal, Madeira, offers the opportunity to spot marine life in their natural habitat along the south coast.
• The tour includes a catamaran cruise, friendly guide, food and drinks, and a complimentary alternative tour in case of no cetacean sightings.
• The tour is not wheelchair accessible but allows strollers, and guests with medical conditions have no special requirements.
• Weather permitting, the tour may include a refreshing swim at Cabo Girão or a brief sailing lesson to handle the catamaran’s sails and tiller.
• The tour has a maximum capacity of 180 travelers and is conveniently located near public transportation in Funchal.

Overview of the Tour

The 3-hour dolphin and whale watching tour from Funchal, Madeira, Portugal takes guests aboard a stylish catamaran along the south coast of the island, providing them with the opportunity to spot marine life in their natural habitat.

Weather permitting, visitors can choose to swim at Cabo Girão or try basic sailing techniques.

The friendly guide ensures a memorable experience, and food and drinks are included.

Guests must check in 30 minutes before departure at the VMT Madeira Kiosk in Funchal Marina, and the tour returns to the same meeting point.

In case of no cetacean sightings, a complimentary alternative tour is offered, valid for one year.

Tour Inclusions

This 3-hour dolphin and whale watching tour from Funchal includes a friendly guide, as well as food and drinks for guests. The tour takes place aboard a stylish catamaran as it cruises along the south coast of Madeira, giving passengers the opportunity to spot marine life in their natural habitat. Weather permitting, guests may even have the chance to swim at Cabo Girão or try their hand at basic sailing techniques.

Included	Not Included
Friendly guide	Swimsuit
3-hour tour	Towel
Food and drinks	Sunscreen
Catamaran cruise	Windbreaker

Meeting and Departure Details

Guests meet at the VMT Madeira Kiosk in Funchal Marina, where they must check in at least 30 minutes before the tour’s scheduled 3-hour departure.

The tour begins and ends at this central meeting point. After the cruise, visitors return to the same location where they started.

The meeting point is conveniently located near public transportation, making it easy for guests to arrive and depart.

However, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though strollers are permitted.

Guests are advised to come prepared with sunscreen, windbreakers, towels, and swimsuits, as swimming may be an option depending on weather and sea conditions.

Recommended Attire and Accessories

Wearing sunscreen, a windbreaker, and bringing a towel and swimsuit is recommended, especially during the summer months, as swimming may be an optional activity depending on weather and sea conditions.

The tour takes place aboard a stylish catamaran, so guests should dress comfortably for the 3-hour voyage along the south coast of Madeira. A light jacket or sweater is suggested, as the ocean breeze can be cooler. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are also a good idea.

While sighting marine life is the primary focus, the option to swim or try basic sailing techniques is weather permitting. Packing these essential items will ensure a pleasant and prepared experience.

Accessibility and Special Conditions

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but strollers are permitted.

Guests with heart problems or other serious medical conditions can still participate, as no special requirements are needed.

In the event of no cetacean sightings, the tour provider offers a complimentary alternative tour valid for a year.

While swimming is an optional activity, it’s subject to favorable weather and sea conditions.

The tour departs from and returns to the Funchal Marina, which is conveniently located near public transportation.

With a maximum capacity of 180 travelers, guests can expect an intimate and personalized experience aboard the stylish catamaran along the south coast of Madeira.

Cetacean Sighting Guarantee

In the unlikely event that no dolphins or whales are spotted during the tour, the tour provider offers a complimentary alternative tour valid for one year.

This ensures that guests aren’t left disappointed if the elusive marine life evades them on the day. The tour’s cetacean sighting guarantee demonstrates the company’s commitment to customer satisfaction.

The complimentary alternative tour can be redeemed for up to one year after the initial booking.

This policy applies regardless of the reason for the lack of sightings, whether due to weather, animal behavior, or other factors beyond the tour provider’s control.

Guests can rest assured that they’ll have another opportunity to witness the awe-inspiring dolphins and whales in their natural habitat.

Swimming and Sailing Opportunities

Depending on favorable weather and sea conditions, visitors may have the opportunity to take a refreshing swim at Cabo Girão or try their hand at basic sailing techniques during the tour.

The crew will assess the conditions and, if deemed safe, invite guests to dive into the blue waters off the coast of Madeira.

For those looking to add a bit of adventure to their dolphin and whale watching experience, the crew can also provide a brief sailing lesson, allowing participants to get a feel for handling the catamaran’s sails and tiller.

These optional activities provide a chance to fully take in the maritime environment and create lasting memories of the tour.

Tour Reviews and Ratings

With over 550 reviews, the dolphin and whale watching catamaran cruise from Funchal has earned an impressive 4.5 out of 5 star rating, indicating its popularity and success in delivering a memorable experience for visitors.

Travelers consistently praise the tour for:

• The friendly and knowledgeable guides who provide insightful commentary throughout the journey.
• The opportunity to spot whales, dolphins, and other marine life in their natural habitat.
• The comfortable and well-equipped catamaran, which offers ample space and stability for an enjoyable cruise along Madeira’s scenic south coast.

These positive reviews highlight the tour’s ability to exceed expectations and provide a truly captivating encounter with the wonders of the ocean.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Departure Times for the Tour?

The tour departs at regular intervals throughout the day, typically starting around 9am and running until late afternoon. Exact departure times may vary, so guests should check the schedule when booking their tour.

Are the Tours Offered Daily or on a Specific Schedule?

The tours are offered on a specific schedule, typically running daily during peak season. Departure times may vary depending on the season and weather conditions. It’s best to check the tour provider’s website for the most up-to-date schedule.

How Far in Advance Should I Book the Tour?

It’s best to book the tour at least a few days in advance, as availability can be limited, especially during peak tourist seasons. This will ensure you secure your desired date and time slot.

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

Passengers are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand, as some may have restrictions or provide refreshments included in the tour price.

What Happens if the Weather Is Not Suitable for Swimming or Sailing?

If the weather is not suitable for swimming or sailing, the tour will proceed as a dolphin and whale watching cruise only. The operator will provide alternative activities and offerings to ensure an enjoyable experience for guests.

Recap

The Dolphin and Whale Watching Catamaran Cruise from Funchal, Madeira offers an exciting opportunity to spot marine life in their natural habitat.

With a guarantee of an alternative tour if no cetacean sightings occur, the tour ensures customer satisfaction and another chance to witness the wonders of the ocean.

With amenities like food, drinks, and a friendly guide, it’s a well-rounded experience that’s not to be missed.