Funchal: KAYAK Rental or Guided tour with snorkeling

Imagine paddling along the shimmering Atlantic, feeling the breeze on your face and the salt on your skin, all while knowing you’re doing something good for the planet. That’s the promise of the Funchal kayaking and snorkeling experience offered by Madeira Divepoint. This activity combines the joy of exploring Madeira’s stunning coastline with the satisfaction of being carbon neutral, making it a splendid choice for eco-conscious travelers looking for active fun.

What makes this trip stand out? First, it’s genuinely small-scale — with groups limited to six — ensuring personalized guidance and space to really enjoy the water. Second, the mix of kayaking, snorkeling, and swimming creates a well-rounded seaside adventure suitable for a variety of fitness levels. But, a word to the wise: you’ll need to be comfortable swimming and paddling, as equipment is set at a mooring, requiring a short swim at the start and end.

If you’re someone who loves being outdoors, appreciates natural beauty, and values eco-friendly tourism, this tour is likely to hit the spot. On the flip side, if you’re looking for a relaxed, land-based activity or aren’t comfortable in the water, you might want to consider other options. Overall, it’s a fantastic way to get a taste of Madeira’s coast with minimal impact.

Key Points

• Eco-friendly activity that is fully carbon neutral, ideal for green travelers.
• Small groups ensure personalized attention and a quieter experience.
• Combines kayaking and snorkeling for a varied, engaging water adventure.
• Equipment is prepared in advance, with a short swim required at start and end.
• The activity is suitable for swimmers with moderate physical activity levels.
• Duration is around 1.5 hours, offering a manageable outing without a full-day commitment.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience: What to Expect from Start to Finish

Meeting at Madeira Divepoint

Your journey begins inside the Pestana Carlton hotel, where you’ll find the Dive & Snorkel center. The location is convenient, with two elevators taking you down to sea level, making it accessible even if you’re carrying gear or traveling with family. Here, you’ll meet your guide, who will provide a thorough safety briefing and explain how to use the equipment properly.

Preparing for the Water

Once geared up, you may be offered a short, thin wetsuit to keep warm — a nice touch, especially if the weather turns cooler or the water feels brisk. The guide will review safety procedures, including the legal requirement to wear a lifejacket throughout the activity, emphasizing safety in the open water.

Guided or Self-guided Paddling

For those opting for the guided tour, your guide will lead you along the coastline, pointing out notable sights and ensuring everyone stays within a designated area. Expect to paddle at a relaxed pace, ideal for taking in the scenery, snapping photos, and enjoying the breeze. If you choose rental-only, you’ll have the freedom to paddle at your own pace — within the set limits — which is perfect if you prefer to explore independently.

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Snorkeling and Swimming Break

One of the most appealing parts of this activity is the chance to snorkel or swim during the trip. The guide or your own initiative can lead you to a small, deserted bay, where you can float over the clear waters, observing marine life or simply relaxing in the calm ocean.

Returning to Shore

At the end of your 1.5-hour adventure, you’ll return to the starting point. Remember, since the equipment is set on a mooring, you’ll need to swim a short distance at both the beginning and the end of your experience — so comfort in the water is important. This setup keeps the activity compact and manageable, but it’s worth noting if you’re not a confident swimmer.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For $28 per person, your fee covers use of kayak and paddle, snorkeling equipment, and a lifejacket — a crucial safety item. The small group size means you’ll get more personalized attention, and the activity is designed to be engaging yet accessible.

However, extras like parking fees, food and drinks, or access to facilities outside the activity itself aren’t included. Be prepared to bring your own water, sun protection, and a towel to dry off afterward.

The Practicalities

This activity is flexible — you can reserve now and pay later, giving you the option to lock in your spot without immediate payment. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, it’s a low-risk addition to your Madeira plans.

The group size is limited to six, creating an intimate environment that’s ideal for families, couples, or small groups of friends. The guided tour is conducted in English and Portuguese, making it accessible for a wide range of travelers.

Participants should be comfortable swimming and able to handle mild to moderate physical activity — paddling and getting onto a kayak requires some effort, but it’s suitable for most active travelers.

The Venue: Madeira Divepoint

Located inside the Pestana Carlton hotel, the Dive & Snorkel center is well-placed for a quick start to your seaside adventure. The setup is straightforward, and the staff seem dedicated to providing a safe, enjoyable experience. Since the activity ends back at the same point, logistics are simple.

What Past Travelers Say

While reviews are limited, the overall rating is 3.8 out of 5 from ten reviews, indicating generally positive feedback. Travelers particularly appreciated the stunning views and the small group intimacy. One review mentioned the straightforward safety instructions and the chance to enjoy calm waters, making it suitable even for those new to kayaking.

Some reviews suggest the activity’s value for money is good, especially considering the eco-friendly aspect and the personalized guidance. The fact that equipment is pre-set and the tour is relatively short makes it an easy add-on for a day of sightseeing.

Why This Tour Works Well

This activity is especially appealing if you’re after a low-pressure, eco-conscious adventure that combines exercise with spectacular scenery. The chance to kayak along Funchal’s coast while stopping for snorkeling makes it more than just a paddle — it’s a chance to see the marine environment up close.

The small-group format and guided option mean you’ll get individual attention, and the overall experience feels more authentic and less touristy. It’s suitable for active travelers who enjoy being on the water, and the short duration suits those with limited time but a desire for a memorable outdoor activity.

Who Should Consider This Tour

If you love outdoor activities, are confident in swimming, and want to explore Madeira’s coast in an environmentally friendly way, this tour fits the bill. It’s ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate natural beauty and small-group experiences.

On the other hand, if you prefer relaxing on land, are uncomfortable swimming or paddling, or seek a more leisurely or luxurious experience, you might opt for other options. This activity demands some physical effort and comfort in the water but rewards you with stunning views and a sense of adventure.

This kayaking and snorkeling outing in Funchal offers a practical blend of exercise, nature, and sustainability. For around $28, you get a well-organized, small-group experience that showcases Madeira’s rugged coastline and clear waters. It’s a great way to break away from typical tourist activities and connect more authentically with the island’s natural environment.

The eco-friendly aspect and personalized guidance make this a worthwhile choice for travelers who prioritize environmental responsibility without sacrificing fun. The activity’s short, manageable duration makes it accessible even for those on a tight schedule or new to water sports.

Overall, if you’re looking to add a splash of adventure to your Madeira visit while respecting the environment, this tour ticks many boxes — stunning scenery, active engagement, and small-group charm. Perfect for active travelers eager to explore Madeira’s coast in a responsible way.

Is this activity suitable for non-swimmers?
No, participants must be able to swim, as the equipment is set on a mooring and requires short swims at the start and end of the trip.

How long does the activity last?
The activity lasts approximately 1.5 hours, making it a quick yet fulfilling outdoor experience.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee includes kayak and paddle, snorkeling equipment, and a lifejacket — all you need for a safe adventure.

Are there guided options?
Yes, you can choose a guided tour, where a guide will lead you along the coast, show interesting sights, and ensure safety.

Can I paddle at my own pace?
Yes, if you opt for rental only, you can paddle within the set limits at your own speed, without a guide.

Is this activity suitable for families?
Yes, small groups and manageable duration make it family-friendly, provided children are comfortable swimming.

What should I bring?
Bring a sun hat, swimwear, towel, and water. Wearing a wetsuit is optional but available.

Where does the activity start and end?
It begins inside the Pestana Carlton hotel at the Dive & Snorkel center and ends back there.

Are there any restrictions?
Fishing, alcohol, and drugs are not allowed during the activity, and participants must be able to paddle and swim.

How do I reserve?
You can reserve now and pay later, with the option to cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance.

In sum, this Madeira kayaking and snorkeling tour is a smart pick for active, eco-minded travelers looking for a quick but memorable taste of the Atlantic’s beauty, all within a small, manageable group setting.

You can check availability for your dates here: