Funchal: Dolphin and Whale Watching Sunset Sailing Tour

Funchal, the vibrant capital of Madeira, offers an enchanting sunset sailing tour that promises to captivate adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike. This 3-hour excursion along the island’s breathtaking coastline provides an unparalleled opportunity to spot dolphins, whales, and sea turtles in their natural habitat. With an open bar and snorkeling equipment included, the tour invites guests to enjoy Madeira’s stunning marine life while witnessing the awe-inspiring Cabo Girao, Europe’s highest sea cliff. Whether you’re seeking an unforgettable experience or simply a chance to bask in the island’s natural beauty, this sunset sailing tour may just be the highlight of your Funchal adventure.

This experience made our list of the 20 Best Dolphin Watching Tours In Madeira.

Key Points

• This 3-hour sunset sailing tour around Funchal offers the chance to spot dolphins, whales, and sea turtles while enjoying an open bar and snorkeling.
• The tour departs from Praca do Povo, Cais 8 in Funchal and includes a stop at the breathtaking Cabo Girao, the highest sea cliff in Europe.
• The knowledgeable guide will provide information about the local wildlife and coastline, and the crew will try to locate sightings of marine life.
• The tour is not suitable for those with mobility impairments, and no shoes are allowed on board, so guests should wear non-slip, flat footwear.
• Bookings can be made online through the tour operator’s website, and early booking is recommended as the tours often sell out.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Activity Details

This sunset sailing tour around Funchal lasts for 3 hours and is likely to sell out.

Passengers will enjoy a guided tour with an open bar and access to snorkeling equipment.

The tour departs from Praca do Povo, Cais 8 in Funchal and stops at Cabo Girao, the highest sea cliff in Europe standing at 1,903 feet (580 meters) above sea level.

While wildlife sightings aren’t guaranteed, there’s a chance to spot dolphins, whales, and sea turtles in their natural habitat.

However, this tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments, and no shoes are allowed on board.

In the event of bad weather, an alternative date or full refund will be offered.

Included in the Tour

The sunset sailing tour includes a guided exploration of the coastline, along with an open bar offering a selection of beverages.

Snorkeling equipment is provided, allowing guests to get up close and personal with the marine life.

The knowledgeable guide will point out any sightings of dolphins, whales, and sea turtles, providing fascinating insights into the local wildlife.

The tour departs from Praca do Povo, Cais 8 in Funchal, and stops at the impressive Cabo Girao, the highest sea cliff in Europe.

While sightings of marine life aren’t guaranteed, the tour offers an opportunity to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

Chance to Spot Wildlife

On the sunset sailing tour, guests have a chance to spot a variety of marine life in their natural habitats. The tour provides an opportunity to potentially see dolphins, whales, and sea turtles during the journey along the Funchal coastline.

While sightings aren’t guaranteed, the skilled crew will do their best to locate and observe any dolphins, whales, or sea turtles that may be present in the area. The tour aims to give passengers a unique encounter with these magnificent creatures as they explore the waters around Madeira.

Guests should keep their eyes peeled and cameras ready, as spotting these animals in their natural environment can be a truly awe-inspiring experience.

Departure Location and Route

The sunset sailing tour departs from Praca do Povo, Cais 8 in Funchal, the capital city of Madeira.

The tour then sails along the Funchal coastline, stopping at the breathtaking Cabo Girao, the highest sea cliff in Europe at 1,903 feet (580 meters) above sea level. Passengers will be able to take in the stunning views of the rugged cliffs and the vast Atlantic Ocean during this portion of the journey.

The tour route is designed to provide guests with an unforgettable experience, showcasing the natural beauty and geographical wonders of Madeira’s coastline. Whether it’s the departure point or the stop at Cabo Girao, the tour’s route offers a truly memorable experience.

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Accessibility and Dress Code

While the tour showcases Madeira’s stunning coastline, it’s important to note that the sailing experience may not be accessible for all guests. The tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments, as there are no special accommodations provided.

To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience, guests are also advised to dress appropriately. No shoes are allowed on board, so passengers should wear non-slip, flat footwear. Plus, bringing light, breathable clothing is recommended, as the sailing can be exposed to the elements.

Accessibility	Dress Code
Not suitable for people with mobility impairments	No shoes allowed on board
No special accommodations provided	Wear non-slip, flat footwear
	Bring light, breathable clothing

Cancellation and Refund Policy

In case of cancellation due to bad weather, the tour operator offers guests the choice of an alternative date or a full refund. This policy ensures that customers aren’t left disappointed if the tour can’t proceed as scheduled.

The company recognizes that weather conditions can be unpredictable, and they’re committed to providing a flexible and customer-friendly experience. Whether guests choose to reschedule or receive a refund, the company’s priority is to ensure their satisfaction.

This commitment to customer service sets the tour apart and helps to build trust and loyalty among those seeking a memorable sunset sailing adventure in Funchal.

Marine Life Sightings

Passengers on this sunset sailing tour stand a decent chance of spotting dolphins, whales, and sea turtles swimming in their natural habitat around the Funchal coastline.

While sightings aren’t guaranteed, the tour operator promises an opportunity to view these magnificent creatures in their element.

The boat’s location near the towering Cabo Girao cliffs provides an ideal vantage point for wildlife watching.

Guests should keep their eyes peeled and cameras ready, as these elusive animals may suddenly appear, breach the surface, or glide gracefully through the waves.

With luck, travelers will witness the majestic beauty of Madeira’s marine life up close during this unforgettable sunset sailing adventure.

Booking and Reservation

Booking the dolphin and whale watching sunset sailing tour can be done conveniently online through the tour operator’s website. Travelers have the option to select their preferred sailing date and time, and securely complete their reservation and payment. The tour often sells out quickly, so early booking is recommended to secure a spot.

Booking Options	Details
Online	Easy, convenient booking through the tour website
Phone	Call the tour operator to make a reservation
In-Person	Visit the tour office in Funchal to book in person
Group Bookings	Special rates available for groups of 6 or more
Cancellation Policy	Refunds or rescheduling offered for bad weather

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on Board?

Guests are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on board for the activity, unless otherwise specified. However, an open bar is typically included as part of the tour experience.

Is There a Bathroom on the Boat?

Yes, there is a bathroom on the boat for the tour. Passengers can use the restroom facilities during the 3-hour sailing experience around the area. The boat is equipped with the necessary amenities for the comfort of all guests.

Are Life Jackets Provided?

Yes, life jackets are provided on the boat tour. For safety reasons, all passengers are required to wear a life jacket throughout the duration of the sailing excursion.

Can I Swim During the Tour?

Yes, guests can swim during the tour. The tour includes snorkeling equipment, allowing passengers to explore the marine environment up close. However, swimming may be subject to weather and safety conditions on the day.

What Is the Capacity of the Boat?

The boat’s capacity is not explicitly stated in the knowledge provided. However, the tour is described as a "sunset sailing tour" that is "likely to sell out," suggesting the boat has a finite number of spaces available for passengers.

Recap

The Funchal sunset sailing tour offers an unforgettable opportunity to witness Madeira’s stunning natural beauty and diverse marine life.

From the comfort of a guided boat, guests can enjoy an open bar, snorkel, and keep an eye out for dolphins, whales, and sea turtles along the coastline.

With departures from Praca do Povo, Cais 8, this tour is a must-do for any visitor to Funchal, Madeira.

You can check availability for your dates here: