Funchal: Sunrise Private Sailing Trip with Breakfast

Imagine waking up early, but instead of hitting snooze, you’re greeted by the gentle rocking of a sailboat, the sky turning shades of gold, and the smell of fresh breakfast. This is exactly what the Sunrise Private Sailing Trip in Funchal offers — an intimate, peaceful start to your Madeira day. Designed for those who appreciate quiet beauty and authentic maritime adventure, this experience combines stunning vistas with a relaxed, personalized atmosphere.

What we love about this trip are its exclusive nature — it’s a private boat for your group, ensuring a calm, unhurried experience — and the delicious breakfast prepared on board that sets a warm tone for the morning. The only downside? Waking up early isn’t everyone’s idea of holiday fun, and sometimes weather can be unpredictable, leading to cancellations. Still, if you’re the type who enjoys a peaceful dawn and breathtaking views, this trip could be a highlight of your Madeira trip.

This tour suits travelers looking for a calm, scenic experience, especially those who enjoy the water, gentle mornings, and a touch of luxury. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or families wanting to start their day with something memorable and unique.

Key Points

• Private experience: Up to 6 people, ensuring intimacy and personalized service.
• Stunning views: Panoramic vistas of Funchal, mountains, and sea at sunrise.
• Included breakfast: Freshly prepared on board, adding comfort to the early start.
• Flexible timing: Check availability for different start times.
• Weather-dependent: The trip can be canceled if conditions aren’t safe.
• No food and drinks: Outside food and drinks aren’t allowed on board.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Calm, Picturesque Start to Your Day in Madeira

Starting your day with a private sailing trip in Funchal is a gift for anyone craving a tranquil, scenic morning. The journey begins at the Marina do Funchal, where you’ll look for a distinctive blue sailing boat with a white flag bearing the company’s name, “Happy Hour Madeira.” The boat hosts a maximum of six guests—perfect for those seeking a quiet, exclusive experience away from large groups.

As the boat gently departs, you’ll be surrounded by the sights and sounds of the marina fading behind you. The real magic begins once you venture out onto the open water, where you can watch the sky shift from dark to luminous hues. The panoramic views of Funchal’s cityscape, with its colorful rooftops and the distant mountain backdrop, are truly captivating. From this vantage point, you’ll see the city in a new light—literally.

Watching the Sunrise

The main draw is, of course, the sunrise itself. While weather can be unpredictable, on clear mornings you’ll be rewarded with a stunning display of orange and pink streaks illuminating the horizon. One traveler noted, “Unfortunately we couldn’t see the sunrise because we didn’t want to see it, but Alexander and his colleague had a great time and made a good breakfast,” highlighting that even if the sky isn’t perfect, the crew’s hospitality can make the trip worthwhile.

Breakfast on Board

The onboard breakfast is a delightful feature. Expect a thoughtfully prepared meal, which sets a welcoming tone. The crew takes pride in their cooking, aiming to make this early start feel special. The combination of fresh food, the gentle motion of the boat, and the quiet of the morning creates a relaxing atmosphere that’s hard to beat.

What the Experience Feels Like

The boat is equipped with life vests, snorkeling gear, blankets, and pillows, ensuring comfort and safety. While snorkeling isn’t part of the standard itinerary, the gear is available should you wish to dip your toes into the water. The blankets and pillows come in handy if the early morning air feels a bit brisk, making the experience cozy rather than chilly.

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The Logistics: Timing, Price, and Group Size

This private sailing trip lasts approximately 2 hours, though you’ll want to check availability for specific start times. The price is $591 per group, which allows up to 6 guests — making it an excellent value for a personalized experience that’s more than just a sightseeing tour.

Keep in mind, hotel pickup and drop-off aren’t included, so you’ll need to make your way to the marina. It’s a straightforward meeting point in Funchal, near the marina area, where a crew member will welcome you aboard.

The tour is offered in several languages—English, Portuguese, Spanish, and Swedish—which broadens its appeal. It’s a private group experience, meaning you won’t be sharing with strangers, and the crew can cater a little to your preferences.

Weather Considerations

The tour relies heavily on weather conditions. If the sea is rough or the weather isn’t safe, the trip may be canceled at short notice. This is important to consider if your travel plans are tight or if you’re visiting in the less predictable seasons.

What Did Other Travelers Say?

One traveler shared, “Unfortunately we couldn’t see the sunrise because we didn’t want to see it, but Alexander and his colleague had a great time and made a good breakfast.” This highlights that even if the sky doesn’t cooperate fully, the crew’s hospitality and the overall experience remain positive.

Another review emphasized the knowledgeable guides and the quality of the breakfast, noting that the combination of scenic views and good food made for a memorable start to their day.

Why Choose This Experience?

If you’re someone who appreciates serenity, stunning visuals, and a touch of luxury, this private sailing trip is a wonderful choice. It’s especially suited for early risers, couples, or small groups who want to enjoy Madeira from a different perspective—away from crowded tours and buses.

It’s not for those who prefer a packed itinerary or dislike mornings, but if you’re looking for a peaceful, intimate way to experience Madeira’s natural beauty, this trip hits the mark.

The Sum Up

This Sunrise Private Sailing Trip in Funchal offers a truly memorable way to start your day on Madeira — with quiet waters, breathtaking views, and a delicious breakfast. Its value lies in the personal touch, exclusivity, and the chance to see Funchal from a unique angle. The experience is best suited for travelers seeking relaxation and authentic moments rather than adrenaline or adventure.

The combination of stunning scenery, helpful crew, and the soothing rhythm of the sea makes it a worthwhile addition to your Madeira itinerary, especially if your schedule allows you to wake up early and savor the quiet majesty of dawn. It’s a peaceful, scenic escape that leaves you with beautiful memories of your time in this Atlantic paradise.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is private and small, making it a cozy experience, but it isn’t explicitly designed for children. Consider their comfort with early mornings and boat stability.

What should I bring with me?
Bring a camera for the sunrise, some warm clothing or blankets if it’s chilly, and your sense of adventure. Food and drinks aren’t allowed on board.

Can I cancel if the weather isn’t good?
Yes, the tour can be canceled at any time if weather conditions aren’t safe, and you’ll receive a full refund if that happens.

How long is the trip?
The sailing lasts about 2 hours, but check the specific starting times when booking.

Is the experience suitable for people over 70?
Probably not, as it’s not recommended for people over 70 or those with back problems.

Is there a minimum group size?
It’s a private experience for up to 6 guests, so no minimum beyond that.

Do I need to pay upfront?
You can reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility in your planning.

Where do I meet the crew?
At Marina do Funchal, look for a blue sailing boat with a white flag marked “Happy Hour Madeira.”

Are guides available?
Yes, guides speak English, Portuguese, Spanish, and Swedish.

Can I snorkel during the trip?
Snorkeling gear is provided, but snorkeling isn’t a standard part of the trip; it depends on weather and time.

In essence, if your idea of a perfect morning involves gentle sea breezes, spectacular views, and a relaxing breakfast, this private sailing trip is likely to be a highlight of your Madeira visit. Just be prepared for an early start—and that’s often the best way to experience the quiet beauty of a sunrise over the Atlantic.

You can check availability for your dates here: