Funchal, the capital of Madeira, offers a unique opportunity to explore its captivating sights and natural wonders. The Funchal Excursion tour combines a Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour with a Whale & Dolphin Boat Excursion, allowing visitors to discover the city’s Old Town, Madeira Wine Museum, and more, while also embarking on an exciting maritime adventure to spot these magnificent creatures. With included Madeira wine tasting and a visit to the renowned Bordal Embroideries Factory, this 2-day experience immerses travelers in the rich culture and beauty of Funchal. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, this excursion promises an unforgettable journey.
This experience made our list of the 20 Best Dolphin Watching Tours In Madeira.
Key Points
- This 2-day tour in Funchal, Madeira offers a Hop-on Hop-off Bus and a Dolphin and Whale Watching excursion aboard a catamaran.
- The tour is available in 10 languages, including Portuguese and English, and is priced from $50.32 per person.
- Highlights include exploring Funchal and Câmara de Lobos, a Madeira wine tasting, and a visit to the Bordal Embroideries Factory.
- The Hop-on Hop-off bus runs every 30-45 minutes, allowing passengers to explore the city at their own pace.
- The Dolphin and Whale Watching adventure provides the opportunity to spot these marine creatures in their natural habitat.
Tour Details
The Funchal Excursion tour offers an enticing 2-day experience, priced from $50.32 per person and available in 10 languages, including Portuguese, English, and several European languages.
This comprehensive package includes a Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour, allowing visitors to explore Funchal and Câmara de Lobos at their own pace.
Plus, guests can enjoy a captivating Dolphin and Whale Watching adventure aboard a catamaran, as well as a complimentary Madeira Wine Tasting at the historic Old Blandys Wine Lodge.
The tour also features a visit to the Bordal Embroideries Factory, providing a glimpse into the island’s rich cultural heritage.
With a convenient meeting point at Avenida do Mar in Funchal, this tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the best of Madeira.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Madeira.
Experience Highlights
Funchal Excursion’s experience highlights include exploring Funchal and Câmara de Lobos by Hop-on Hop-off Bus, embarking on a Dolphin and Whale Watching adventure aboard a catamaran, and swimming or snorkeling at Fajã do Cabo Girão. Visitors can also indulge in a complimentary Madeira Wine Tasting at the Old Blandys Wine Lodge and discover Bordal Embroideries Factory’s rich cultural heritage.
Highlights | Details |
---|---|
Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour | Explore Funchal and Câmara de Lobos |
Dolphin and Whale Watching | Sail on a catamaran for an unforgettable experience |
Swimming and Snorkeling | Enjoy the beauty of Fajã do Cabo Girão |
Booking Information
Travelers can easily reserve this excursion now and pay later, with the added benefit of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing them to keep their travel plans flexible. This booking policy provides customers with peace of mind and the ability to adapt their itinerary as needed.
Whether plans change or the weather doesn’t cooperate, the flexible cancellation policy ensures customers aren’t penalized. The reserve now, pay later option also makes it simple to secure a spot on this popular tour without needing to pay upfront.
With these convenient booking terms, Funchal’s Hop-On Hop-Off Bus and Whale & Dolphin Boat Excursion is easily accessible to travelers of all types.
Transportation and Stops
Hopping on and off the bus is convenient, with stops at key locations throughout Funchal, including the Avenida do Mar, Funchal City Gates, Old Town, Farmers Market, and Madeira Wine Museum.
The bus runs every 30 minutes from 9 AM to 12:30 PM, and every 45 minutes from 1:15 PM to 5 PM, ensuring you can explore the city at your own pace.
Whether you want to wander the charming Old Town, sample local wines, or discover the Bordal Embroideries Factory, the hop-on hop-off bus makes it easy to navigate Funchal and experience the highlights of this Madeiran gem.
More Great Tours NearbyCustomer Reviews
Reviewers from the United States, Austria, and the Netherlands generally rate the Funchal Excursion tour 4.2 out of 5, praising its transportation and value for money. Travelers appreciate the convenience of the hop-on hop-off bus service, which runs every 30-45 minutes, making it easy to explore Funchal and Câmara de Lobos.
The dolphin and whale watching trip on the catamaran is also a highlight, as is the complimentary Madeira wine tasting. While some note that food and drinks aren’t allowed on the bus, the overall experience provides an excellent way to see the best of Madeira’s attractions at a reasonable price point.
- Whale and Dolphin Watching Tour From Funchal
- West Tour Madeira Highly Recommended !Attention Minimum 2 People for This Tour.
- Sunrise Transfer to Pico Do Arieiro, Hike to Pico Ruivo & Return From Teixeira
- Magic Dolphin Sea Safaris
- Full-Day Rabaçal Levada Walk From Funchal
- Transfers All Around the Island Sunrise Pr1 and Pr1.2 Hike
Dolphin and Whale Watching
One of the highlights of the Funchal Excursion is the dolphin and whale watching trip aboard a catamaran, offering visitors a chance to spot these magnificent marine creatures in their natural habitat.
The tour takes you out on the open waters of the Atlantic Ocean, where you’ll have the opportunity to see a variety of whales and dolphins, including bottlenose dolphins, common dolphins, and pilot whales.
The knowledgeable guides provide commentary on the various species and their behaviors, making the experience both informative and thrilling.
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply looking for an adventurous activity, the dolphin and whale watching tour is a must-do during your Funchal visit.
Madeira Wine Tasting
After the thrilling dolphin and whale watching experience, visitors can enjoy a complimentary Madeira wine tasting at the Old Blandys Wine Lodge.
This provides an opportunity to learn about the history and production of the renowned Madeira wines, while sampling a variety of the island’s most celebrated wine offerings.
The tasting showcases the unique characteristics of Madeira’s fortified wines, which are known for their complex flavors and ability to withstand prolonged aging. Guests can explore the diverse styles, from the dry, crisp Sercial to the rich, sweet Malvasia.
The guided tasting offers fascinating insights into the winemaking traditions that have made Madeira a treasured destination for oenophiles worldwide.
Bordal Embroideries Factory
The Bordal Embroideries Factory offers visitors a captivating glimpse into Madeira’s rich textile heritage, inviting them to witness the intricate process of hand-crafting the island’s renowned embroidered products. This immersive experience allows guests to:
-
Observe skilled artisans masterfully manipulating needle and thread to create intricate floral and geometric patterns
-
Learn about the history and significance of Madeira embroidery, a tradition dating back centuries
-
Browse the factory’s showroom, showcasing a vibrant selection of embroidered home goods, apparel, and accessories
-
Gain an appreciation for the dedication and dexterity required to produce these exquisite textiles
-
Discover why Bordal’s embroideries are prized worldwide for their quality and craftsmanship
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Bus?
According to the tour details, food and drinks are not allowed on the vehicle. Passengers should plan to purchase any necessary refreshments before or after the tour, as the bus does not permit outside food or beverages.
Do I Need to Show a Ticket to Get on the Bus?
Yes, travelers need to show a ticket to board the hop-on hop-off bus. The tour operator requires a valid ticket to access the service, ensuring all passengers have paid for the experience. This helps maintain the smooth operation of the bus route.
What Time Does the Last Bus Depart?
The last bus departs at 5PM, according to the tour information. The bus runs every 45 minutes from 1:15PM to 5PM, so the final departure is at 5PM. Travelers should plan their schedule accordingly.
Can I Change My Tour Date if Needed?
Yes, you can change your tour date if needed. The booking information states there is free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing you to keep your travel plans flexible.
How Reliable Is the Tour Based on Past Experiences?
The tour seems reliable based on past customer reviews, which indicate an overall 4.2/5 rating for transportation and value for money. Travelers from multiple countries have had positive experiences, suggesting the tour operates consistently well.
Recap
The Funchal Excursion tour provides an excellent way to discover the city’s attractions at your own pace.
The Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour, combined with the Whale & Dolphin Boat Excursion, offers a comprehensive experience.
Enjoy the culture through the Madeira Wine Tasting and Bordal Embroideries Factory visit.
This 2-day tour is a convenient and engaging way to explore the beauty of Funchal.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Boat Tours & Cruises in Madeira
- Funchal: Cabo Girão Tour on Traditional Boat with Drinks
- Funchal:Private Sunset Boat Trip – Snorkel & Paddle up 11 pp
- Funchal: Private Boat Tour w/Snorkel & Paddle up 11 people
- Funchal: Snorkeling Adventure in Eco-Park / Shore or by Boat
- From Funchal: Ecological Catamaran Dolphin Whale Watching
- Funchal: Private Boat Tour w/Snorkel & Paddleboard
More Tours in Madeira
More Tour Reviews in Madeira
Not for you? Here's more nearby things to do in Madeira we have reviewed
- Porto Santo: Photographic and discovery full island tour.
- Madeira: Private Sunrise & Hike + Optional Breakfast Picnic
- Madeira: Sightseeing Tour
- Transfer from Porto da Cruz to Pico Ruivo – Arieiro Or PR9
- Madeira: Westside Achadas Cruz, Moniz, Seixal and Fanal
- Madeira: East Coast Cabriolet Road Trip
- Madeira: Level 2 Canyoning Half Day Adventure
- Madeira: Private Laurisilva Tour
- Mountain Wonders: Nuns Valley Half-day Private Jeep
- Madeira: Private 1.5-Kilometer Levada dos Balcões Hike PR11
- Funchal: Cabo Girão Tour on Traditional Boat with Drinks
- Madeira: Level 1 Canyoning Half Day Adventure