Funchal: Private Boat Tour w/Snorkel & Paddleboard

Planning a day on the water in Madeira? This private boat tour offers an intimate way to explore the coastlines around Funchal, combining scenic views, water activities, and personalized service. With only your group, a knowledgeable crew, and plenty of flexibility, it’s an experience designed to suit those who prefer a relaxed, authentic adventure over crowded tours.

What we love about this experience is how it balances ease and fun. You get to enjoy breathtaking scenery without feeling rushed, plus the chance to snorkel or try paddleboarding in crystal-clear waters. The crew’s friendliness and expertise shine through, making it easier to relax and focus on having a good time. One thing to keep in mind is that bathrooms aren’t included, so plan accordingly if needed. This tour is ideal for small groups, families, and friends who want a personalized, versatile day on the water.

If you’re after a memorable, flexible experience that combines sightseeing with active fun, this tour fits the bill. It’s particularly suited for those who value engaging guides and stunning landscape views, and who appreciate options to get in the water. However, travelers needing accessible facilities or with very young children might want to consider their comfort needs. Overall, it’s a smart choice for anyone wanting a tailored, scenic adventure in Madeira.

Key Points

• Private and personalized: Up to 9 people, giving you space and flexibility.
• Scenic route: Highlights include Funchal, Cabo Girao Coast, Camara de Lobos, and Calhau da Lapa.
• Water activities included: Snorkeling gear and paddleboarding are part of the package.
• Relaxed timing: 3.5 hours to explore, swim, take photos, and enjoy watersports.
• Knowledgeable crew: Guides are friendly and well-informed about the area and marine life.
• Great value for a private experience: For the price, you get an all-included, tailored water adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Madeira’s Coastline from the Water

This private boat tour offers a unique vantage point of Madeira’s coast—a landscape that’s often best appreciated from the water. Unlike crowded group excursions, this experience is tailored to your small group, giving you the freedom to set the pace, whether that means lingering at a favorite spot or moving on to the next view.

The boat departs from Praça do Povo in Marina Funchal, sitting conveniently in the heart of the city. The vessel itself is easy to spot, with a blue top and white paddleboard, arranged to accommodate up to nine guests comfortably. This size ensures a cozy, intimate atmosphere, perfect for families or groups of friends wanting a private, flexible day.

The Itinerary and What to Expect

The route is designed to showcase the most scenic parts of the coast, including the famous Cabo Girao, known for its dramatic cliffs and panoramic views. The guides will take you along the coastline, with stops at key points like Funchal, Camara de Lobos, and Calhau da Lapa. The route is adjustable; if weather conditions aren’t ideal near Cabo Girao, the crew will navigate around to other sides of the coast, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.

Stop 1: Praç da Povo – Starting Point

Your adventure begins here. It’s a straightforward meeting spot, with the boat easy to find just in front of McDonald’s. Once onboard, the crew will give a quick briefing before setting off.

Stop 2: Funchal and Surroundings

The boat cruise offers a guided tour of the coastline, with plenty of opportunities for photography, sightseeing, and relaxing. The friendly guides are helpful in answering questions about the area, marine wildlife, and local history, based on glowing reviews praising their knowledge and personable manner.

More Great Tours Nearby

Water Activities: Snorkeling & Paddleboarding

Water lovers will appreciate the snorkeling gear and paddleboard included in the package. These activities are great for experiencing the crystal-clear waters up close. The guides request you to inform them beforehand if you want to snorkel, so they can prepare the masks and snorkels. The reviews highlight how much guests enjoyed this element, with one saying, “The tour provided an awesome view along the Funchal coastline, with clear waters and picturesque landscapes.”

Final Stop: Praça do Povo

After roughly 3.5 hours, you’ll return to your starting point, having enjoyed a range of activities and scenery that’s hard to beat.

What’s Included and What to Consider

The tour covers fuel, crew, safety gear (masks, snorkels, noodles), fruit, and a Bluetooth speaker for music. The flexibility to bring your own snacks and drinks enhances the experience. The price of $443 for up to nine people is reasonable for this exclusive, private outing—especially considering the personalized service and the inclusion of watersports.

However, note that there is no bathroom onboard, so plan accordingly if you or your group might need one. This is typical for small boats, but it’s worth mentioning for comfort.

The Value of a Private Tour

Compared to group tours, this private experience offers more flexibility, less crowding, and a chance to customize your day. The reviews confirm this, with guests praising the tailored approach and friendly guides. For example, one reviewer said, “The duration of the trip was perfect, allowing us plenty of time to explore each location, take photos, swim, snorkel, and try paddleboarding. It never felt rushed.”

This kind of personalized tour is great for families wanting a safe and engaging water day, friends seeking a scenic escape, or couples looking for a relaxed adventure. If you’re someone who prefers a slower pace, with the chance to stop, swim, and enjoy the views at your own rhythm, this is likely to be a hit.

Tips for a Great Experience

• Bring sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a hat, and a jacket—the weather can change quickly at sea.
• Inform the crew in advance if you want to snorkel so they can prepare your gear.
• Consider bringing some snacks and drinks, as these can be enjoyed onboard.
• Arrive a little early at the meeting point to avoid last-minute stress.
• The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility issues, or those over 70, so plan accordingly.

Final Thoughts

This private boat tour in Madeira offers a well-balanced mix of spectacular scenery, active water fun, and personalized service. The small-group setting and flexible itinerary make it a standout choice for travelers who want more than just a standard cruise. Thanks to knowledgeable guides and beautiful views, you’ll leave with plenty of memories—and probably some great photos too.

If you’re after a scenic, relaxing, and activity-rich experience that captures the essence of Madeira’s coast, this tour delivers. It’s especially ideal for those who value customization, intimate settings, and a chance to explore waterside spots at your own pace.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for families? Yes, the private nature and water activities make it a great choice for families, especially those with older children interested in snorkeling and paddleboarding.

How many people can join? Up to 9 guests can be accommodated in this private group, ensuring an intimate experience.

What should I bring? Bring sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a hat, and a jacket. You’re also welcome to bring your own snacks and drinks.

Are there facilities onboard? No, there isn’t a bathroom onboard, so plan accordingly.

Can I customize the route? The crew will adjust the route if weather conditions aren’t ideal near Cabo Girao, and generally aim to show the best views possible.

What water activities are included? Snorkeling with masks and snorkels, paddleboarding, and noodles are included. Inform the crew if you want to snorkel so they can prepare your gear.

How long is the tour? The trip lasts approximately 3.5 hours, giving enough time to explore, swim, and enjoy watersports.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues? No, it isn’t recommended for those with mobility impairments or over 70.

What’s the cancellation policy? You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

What language is the tour guide? The guides speak English, Portuguese, Italian, and Spanish, making it accessible for various travelers.

This private boat tour offers a fantastic way to experience Madeira’s coast in comfort and style. Whether you’re after scenic views, active water fun, or just a relaxing day at sea, it’s a memorable choice for your trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: