Funchal:Hop-on Hop-off Bus & Whale & Dolphin boat Excursion

If you’re planning a trip to Madeira, this tour offers a practical way to see the island’s highlights and encounter its marine life at the same time. Combining a 2-day hop-on hop-off bus with a whale and dolphin watching cruise, it promises a flexible, family-friendly experience filled with scenic views and memorable moments.

What we love most about this experience is how it mixes land and sea—allowing you to appreciate Madeira’s vibrant streets and lush landscapes, then venture into the Atlantic to meet its fascinating creatures. The free wine tasting at Old Blandy’s and the visit to Bordal Embroideries Factory add authentic Madeiran culture to the mix.

A potential consideration — some reviewers mention the check-in location can be a bit tricky to find, which might cause some initial confusion. Still, once onboard, the journey tends to be smooth and well-organized.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate a multi-sensory approach to exploring Madeira, from vibrant city streets to the open ocean. Whether you’re a nature lover, culture enthusiast, or simply want a flexible sightseeing option, this package offers good value and authentic experiences.

Key Points

• Multi-day flexibility: Valid for 2 days from first use, allowing you to explore at your own pace.
• Land and sea combo: Enjoy Funchal and Câmara de Lobos by bus, then head out on a boat for marine wildlife encounters.
• Authentic cultural touches: Free wine tasting and embroidery factory visit give local flavor.
• Crucial details: Check-in location can be tricky, so arrive early and plan your route.
• Wildlife watching: Spot dolphins, whales, and sometimes turtles in their natural habitat — a highlight for many travelers.
• Value-packed: Discounts on museum entries and shopping, plus included attractions, make this a good deal.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Land and Sea Experience in Madeira

Starting Off: The Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour in Funchal

The adventure begins at the Avenida do Mar, right near the bustling marina, where you’ll exchange your voucher for a ticket to explore Madeira’s capital. With a 48-hour validity, the hop-on hop-off bus operates every 30 minutes from 9 AM to 12:30 PM, then every 45 minutes from 1:15 PM to 5 PM, giving you plenty of options to tailor your sightseeing.

This open-top bus offers a fantastic way to get an overview of Funchal’s main sights, from the Funchal Cathedral to the vibrant Old Town and Cable Car station. The routes also include stops at the Farmer’s Market, Madeira Wine Museum, and Pestana Gardens, giving a well-rounded introduction to the city’s culture and landscape.

What makes this bus experience stand out is the chance to hop on and off at your leisure, so you can spend more time exploring places that catch your eye. For example, the Bordal Embroidery Factory offers a glimpse into Madeira’s textile traditions, and with free entry included, it’s a nice cultural add-on.

That said, some travelers have noted that the check-in point can be inconvenient, especially if you’re new to the area. The Meeting Point is at the Avenida do Mar, but one review mentioned it’s a bit of a walk from other parts of the city, so arriving early is wise.

Exploring Câmara de Lobos

This charming fishing village, just a short bus ride from Funchal, is a favorite among visitors. Known for its colorful boats and relaxed vibe, it’s a perfect spot for photos and a leisurely stroll. The bus routes include stops here, allowing you to explore at your own pace.

The Marine Adventure: Whale & Dolphin Watching

The highlight for many is the catamaran cruise, which departs from the VMT City Pier (in front of Stop 2 of the bus). The experience includes a 1-hour free Madeira wine tasting at Old Blandy’s Wine Lodge, plus a visit to the Bordal Embroideries Factory — both excellent opportunities to connect more with local traditions.

Once aboard the VMT Catamaran, you’ll leave the coast behind and head into the Atlantic, where the chances of spotting dolphins and whales are high. Madeira is home to over 20 species of cetaceans, making sightings quite common. We loved the way the boat glided smoothly over crystal-clear waters, with panoramic views of the rugged coastline and lace-like rock formations.

Passengers frequently report seeing dolphins swimming alongside the boat, and if luck is on your side, you might see whales breaching or surfacing. Some travelers also spot sea turtles and sea birds, adding to the excitement. The boat is usually comfortable, with plenty of space to relax and take photos.

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Why This Marine Tour Feels Special

Beyond the chance to see incredible wildlife, this cruise offers a perspective on Madeira’s coastline’s natural beauty. The lacework rock formations and crystal-clear waters make for stunning scenery.

One review summed it up: “Dolphin and whale watching is among the most popular activities in Madeira, and the island is visited by more than 20 species of cetaceans. Its an unforgettable experience!” This sentiment is shared by many, who find the marine life encounter to be a truly magical highlight.

Swimming and Snorkeling at Fajã do Cabo Girão

On the return trip, the boat stops for a swimming and snorkeling break at Fajã do Cabo Girão. This spot offers calm, clear waters, perfect for cooling off and exploring underwater life. It’s a brief but refreshing pause, giving you a chance to connect with the Atlantic in a very direct way.

Combining Culture and Nature for Genuine Madeira

The value of this tour lies in its balanced approach. You get to see the vibrant streets and gardens of Funchal, indulge in Madeira’s famous wines, and then venture into the ocean to witness marine wildlife in their natural environment.

The inclusion of discounts on monuments, museums, and shopping adds to its appeal, making it a budget-friendly way to maximize your Madeira experience. The audio guide available in multiple languages ensures you don’t miss out on interesting facts, whether you’re on the bus or the boat.

Practical Tips and Considerations

While the tour offers good value, it’s worth noting that hotel pick-up and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to plan to meet at the designated points. Arriving early at the meeting point is advisable, especially given the mixed reviews about the check-in location.

The check-in at the VMT City Pier requires arriving 30 minutes before your cruise, which might be a tight squeeze if you’re unfamiliar with the area or have other activities planned. The bus and boat schedules run frequently, but it’s wise to double-check timings and availability if you have tight connections.

The tour’s multi-lingual audio guide enhances the experience, making it accessible for travelers from all over. Plus, food and drinks are not allowed onboard the boat, so come prepared with snacks or water.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for families, solo travelers, or couples who want a comprehensive Madeira adventure without the hassle of organizing multiple activities. It’s well-suited for those interested in culture, scenic views, and marine life.

If you’re on a budget but want to see both the city and the ocean, the combination of land and sea activities offers great value. However, if you prefer luxury or private tours, this might feel a bit casual or crowd-friendly.

Final Thoughts

To sum up, this combined hop-on hop-off bus and whale & dolphin watching tour offers a well-rounded way to experience Madeira’s highlights. It’s flexible, reasonably priced, and packed with opportunities for authentic engagement—whether wandering through Funchal’s streets, sipping Madeira wine, or watching dolphins play in the Atlantic.

You’ll love the scenic routes, the ability to customize your day, and the thrill of marine wildlife sightings. The included cultural experiences, like visiting a traditional embroidery factory or tasting local wine, add depth beyond just sightseeing.

This tour is best for travelers who value variety and flexibility. It offers a fantastic blend of land and sea adventures, perfect for those who want to see Madeira from multiple angles without spending a fortune or juggling too many bookings.

FAQs

Is hotel pick-up and drop-off included?
No, this tour does not include hotel transportation. You’ll need to meet at the designated starting point, so planning your route to the Avenida do Mar is recommended.

What is the check-in process for the boat cruise?
Check-in is at the VMT City Pier kiosk, located in front of Stop 2 of the bus route. Arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure to ensure a smooth boarding.

Can I see marine animals on every trip?
While dolphin and whale sightings are quite common, they depend on weather and ocean conditions. Madeira is home to over 20 species, so sightings are often memorable, but not guaranteed.

How long is the boat trip?
The exact duration isn’t specified, but it usually involves enough time at sea for wildlife spotting, swimming, and snorkeling. Expect a leisurely cruise that makes the experience more than just a quick ride.

What should I bring onboard?
Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat for sun protection. Food and drinks are not permitted during the boat trip, but you can enjoy the included wine tasting beforehand.

Is this suitable for children?
Absolutely. The boat trip is family-friendly, and children often enjoy the wildlife sightings and swimming breaks. Just ensure kids are comfortable on boats and in the water.

To sum it up, this Madeira tour combines the best of what the island has to offer — vibrant city life, cultural insights, and the chance to see incredible marine life. It’s a practical, engaging, and authentic option for those wanting a full-spectrum experience in Madeira.

You can check availability for your dates here: