Funchal: Private Sailing Sunrise, Sunset & Moonlight Cruises

Planning a day on the water in Madeira? This private sailing experience offers a peaceful escape with stunning views, flexible timing, and personalized service. Whether you’re watching the first light of dawn, catching the famous Green Flash at sunset, or drifting under the moonlight, this tour promises a memorable journey. It’s a perfect choice for travelers craving authentic, quiet time on the sea without the rush of larger boats or crowds.

What we really appreciate about this experience is its relaxed pace — there’s no engine noise, just the gentle sounds of wind and water, allowing you to truly disconnect. The customizable schedule lets you set your own pace, whether you want a quick cruise or a more leisurely adventure. Plus, the included snacks and drinks elevate the experience, making it feel like a floating picnic with personalized touches. On the flip side, the price of around $512 per group might seem steep for some, but considering the exclusivity and tailored experience, many will find it a fair investment in a special Madeira memory.

This tour is best suited for those who value intimate, authentic sailing and are happy to wait for the right time of day to enjoy Madeira’s natural beauty. It’s ideal for romantic couples, small groups of friends, or families with children who love the sea. If you’re after a luxury, flexible, and personalized experience, this private sail could be a highlight of your trip.

Key Points

• Exclusive Private Experience: Up to 10 guests, ensuring an intimate and personalized trip.
• Flexible Schedule and Destinations: You choose the timing and can tailor the experience to your preferences.
• No Engine Noise: When possible, the boat sails without engine, emphasizing a peaceful, natural ride.
• Included Snacks and Drinks: Warm drinks, wine, cheese, and light snacks are part of the package, with options for extra bites.
• Stunning Views at Different Times: Watch the sunrise, catch the Green Flash at sunset, or enjoy serene moonlit waters.
• Expert and Friendly Guides: Knowledgeable crew attentive to your needs, making the trip both relaxing and engaging.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Setup and What to Expect

Starting from the Cais da Cidade, you’ll meet your skipper at the first pontoon, a straightforward walk down the stairs leading from the city pier. Once onboard, there’s a brief safety briefing, but the real focus is on slipping into a calm, engine-free sail whenever conditions allow. This choice really sets the tone—imagine drifting on Madeira’s pristine waters, hearing only the wind, with the sun warming your face.

The boat itself is cozy yet well-equipped, with space enough for up to 10 passengers. According to reviews, the yacht feels inviting, attractively furnished, and offers plenty of room to stretch out. The crew takes care of all the logistics, leaving you free to relax, read, or simply stare at the spectacular scenery.

Sunrise Cruises: Greeting the Day

Starting early in the morning, you’ll be treated to Madeira’s quietest, most peaceful waters. Watching the sun rise over the Atlantic is an experience few forget. The gentle morning light illuminates the coastline, and if you’re lucky, you’ll witness the famous Green Flash—a fleeting optical phenomenon seen just as the sun dips below the horizon or rises above it. This is a true bucket-list moment for many travelers.

Sunset Cruises: Chasing the Green Flash

As the day winds down, the sunset cruise offers a different kind of magic. The sky often turns to shades of orange and pink, and the crew may point out the rare Green Flash—a phenomenon that adds a touch of mystery to the evening. Travelers have described this as a “breathtaking sunset” experience, complemented by dolphins swimming past and singing, creating a lively, joyful backdrop.

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Moonlight Cruises: Quiet Reflection

The moonlight sail offers serenity and a chance to see Madeira’s coastline glow under the night sky. The gentle rocking of the boat, combined with the sound of waves and the cool night air, makes for an ideal setting to disconnect from daily life. This option is perfect for those who enjoy a more contemplative experience, perhaps paired with a glass of wine or local cheese.

Food and Refreshments

Included are hot chocolate, coffee, and cakes, perfect for warming up after a chilly morning or as a sweet treat during sunset. For those wishing for more sustenance, drinks like beer, wine, kombucha, or sodas are available on request, along with a range of light snacks. The menu options are thoughtfully curated, featuring Portuguese specialties like sausages, cheeses, and fritters, or a hearty “Sailor breakfast” with a local scabbard fish sandwich, boiled egg, and hot chocolate. Many guests have noted the quality and flavor of the snacks, making the cruise feel like a floating picnic.

The Itinerary and Its Charm

The tour begins from the Cais, where you meet your crew and board the boat. The safety briefing takes just around 10 minutes, enough time to get familiar with the vessel and ask any questions. Once underway, the boat heads towards the desired destination, which is flexible based on your preferences and weather conditions.

For sunrise or sunset, the route typically includes a scenic cruise along Funchal’s coastline, with views of the city’s colorful buildings, lush mountains, and rugged cliffs. The timing is flexible, and the crew will tailor the experience—whether that’s a quick 2.5-hour jaunt or a longer, more relaxed voyage. The trip concludes back at the Cais, leaving you with beautiful memories and, quite possibly, some spectacular photos.

Authenticity and Personal Touches

Guests frequently mention how attentive and friendly the crew is—Manolo and others are praised for their warmth and helpfulness. According to reviews, the schedule is tailored to guest wishes, and activities like snorkeling or paddleboarding are offered if desired. This flexibility means you can turn a simple sail into a full-blown adventure or keep it peaceful and scenic.

Pricing and What It Means for Value

At $512 per group for up to 10 people, the cost might seem high at first glance. But this fee includes a private experience, snacks, and drinks, which often makes it more cost-effective than booking multiple group tours. The exclusivity and personalized attention mean you get a luxury feel at a more affordable rate—especially if traveling with family or friends. For those celebrating special occasions like birthdays (as one reviewer did), this cruise adds a memorable touch that’s hard to match with larger, more generic tours.

Why It’s Worth It

Considering the quiet, engine-free sailing, the stunning scenery, and the bespoke service, many guests find it excellent value. The experience is designed to be more than just a cruise — it’s a chance to connect with Madeira’s natural beauty in a relaxed, intimate setting.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect for travelers who appreciate quiet, authentic sailing and want to avoid crowded, noisy boats. It suits those celebrating a special event or simply longing for a peaceful escape on the water. If you’re looking for something luxurious but personal, with customizable timing and activities, you’ll likely find this sailing adventure very rewarding.

It’s also suitable for families with children (up to six adults, remaining children), and the boat’s capacity ensures a cozy, friendly atmosphere. If you love the idea of watching the sunrise or sunset over Madeira with a small group of friends or loved ones, this cruise will meet your expectations.

Final Thoughts: Why Choose This Experience?

This private sailing tour offers a rare blend of authenticity, tranquility, and personalization. It’s a chance to slow down, enjoy Madeira’s beautiful waters, and create your own unforgettable moments—whether that’s spotting dolphins, catching the Green Flash, or simply soaking in the sunset. The flexible schedule and attentive crew mean you can tailor the experience to suit your mood and interests.

For those who value small-group intimacy, scenic beauty, and gourmet snacks, this cruise delivers on all fronts. It’s especially recommended for travelers who want to escape the crowds and experience Madeira’s sea in a gentle, relaxed way.

FAQs

Is this a private tour? Yes, it’s designed for a private group of up to 10 people, making it perfect for intimate gatherings or special occasions.

What is included in the price? The tour includes hot chocolate, coffee, cakes, and wine and cheese. Snacks and drinks are part of the package, with extra food options available on request.

How long does the cruise last? The average duration is approximately 2.5 hours, but check availability for specific starting times.

Can I choose the time of day? Yes, you can select from sunrise, sunset, or moonlight options, depending on your preferences and schedule.

What should I bring? It’s best to bring a towel and beachwear, especially if you want to swim or paddleboard.

Are there activities during the cruise? Snorkeling, stand-up paddling, and other activities are available upon request, weather permitting.

This private sailing experience in Madeira stands out with its personalized service, exquisite scenery, and relaxed pace. Whether you’re after a peaceful sunrise, a romantic sunset, or a tranquil moonlit ride, it offers an authentic and memorable way to enjoy Madeira’s waters — all in a setting that feels both special and genuinely Portuguese.

You can check availability for your dates here: