Madeira Boat Trips: The 15 Best Days at Sea

From Funchal: Ecological Catamaran Dolphin Whale Watching - Choosing your place on the catamaran

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 5,771 reviews · from $40Our pick

Set out from Funchal on a purpose-built catamaran with hybrid-electric engines, certified guides and land-based whale spotters. The 2.5 to 3-hour trip looks for dolphins, whales, turtles and seabirds, then follows Madeira’s south coast past Cabo Girão and includes a swim stop. Bar service, toilets, shaded seating and open viewing areas are on board.

“At first we had that "doomed to see nothing" feeling but three large schools of whales later, we were very happy.”

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Funchal: Dolphin and Whale Watching Catamaran Cruise

2.Dolphin and Whale Watching Catamaran Cruise

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 5,697 reviews · 3 hours · from $41

From Funchal Marina, sail for three hours along Madeira’s coast aboard a spacious catamaran, watching for dolphins, whales and turtles. The crew speaks English and Portuguese and shares information about marine life. In summer, the trip may include a swim stop beneath Cabo Girão. Drinks are sold onboard; wildlife sightings are not guaranteed.

“Entire experience was amazing and all went as planned - we have been extremely lucky as we managed to watch whales and dolphins during the trip. Staff was helpful and also enjoyed watching with all the crew - we could see their happy faces. Wild life watching is seasonal and we picked the best time of the year.”

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Funchal Bay: Dolphin & Whale Watch Luxury Catamaran Cruise

3.Dolphin & Whale Watch Luxury Catamaran Cruise

★★★★★★★★★★4.2 · 2,684 reviews · 3 hours · from $47

Set sail from Funchal aboard the Atlantic Pearl for a three-hour coastal cruise with a crew speaking Portuguese and English. Watch for whales and dolphins, then stop near Cabo Girão for a swim or snorkel. The boat has covered seating, outdoor lounging areas, a bathroom and a bar where you can buy drinks.

“Despite not seeing any animals on the trip (obviously not the fault of the experience provider), we had such a great time. We chose the luxury catamaran as we wanted a more quieter experience, rather than a party boat and we got exactly what we paid for. We will cherish this memory! Thank you to the crew for the beautiful experience.”

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Madeira Dolphin and Whale Watching on a Ecological Catamaran

4.Madeira Dolphin and Whale Watching on a Ecological Catamaran

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 1,957 reviews · 3 hours (approx.) · from $42

Sail from Funchal aboard a purpose-built catamaran, watching for dolphins and whales guided by spotters on land. Certified guides explain the marine life, and hybrid-electric engines allow quieter cruising near cetaceans. The roughly three-hour outing may also pass Cabo Girão, Câmara de Lobos and Reid’s Hotel on the return.

“Well organised trip. We were on a cruise ship and walked to where the Magic Dolphin kiosk and boat are. All staff were very professional, particularly the staff on board. We saw pilot whales and common seals. Take a waterproof, as you may get very wet from sea spray on the return journey. You can purchase snacks and drinks on board although we didn’t take this up.”

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Funchal: Dolphin and Whale Watching by Luxury Catamaran

5.Dolphin and Whale Watching by Luxury Catamaran

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 1,709 reviews · 3 hours · from $47

From Funchal Marina, sail aboard a comfortable catamaran toward Cabo Girão while the crew helps you spot dolphins, whales, birds, and turtles and explains Madeira’s marine life. Choose shade indoors or a sunny spot on deck. Most trips last three hours and include a welcome drink; July and August early-morning departures last 2.5 hours and skip the swim stop.

“Very helpful, informative guides. We had a great day out, didn't happen to see whales but plenty of dolphins and a beautiful morning out on the water (and a dip in as well) cannot be disappointing EVER. Recommend !”

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Funchal: Dolphin and Whale Watching Sunset Sailing Tour

6.Dolphin and Whale Watching Sunset Sailing Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 · 1,642 reviews · from $63

Set out from Funchal with a live guide and a group of up to 20, watching for dolphins, whales, and sea turtles before a swim or snorkel stop beneath Cabo Girão. You get snorkeling gear and drinks on board, plus a sunset at sea. Guides Bruno, Roberto, Marco, and José are among the crew names praised for their warm, attentive hosting.

“Loved the experience. We were able to spot pilot whales, dolphins. Special mention to our captain and sailor Mr Roberto and Mr Bruno for their energy.”

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Funchal: Dolphin and Whale Watching Sailing Trip

7.Dolphin and Whale Watching Sailing Trip

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 · 1,325 reviews · 3 hours · from $47

Sail three hours from Funchal with a captain and guide, watching for dolphins, whales, and turtles offshore. The small yacht heads toward Cabo Girão for a swim and snorkel stop, weather and conditions permitting. Drinks and snorkel gear are included; crew members such as Bruno and Joseph have helped make the outing personal and relaxed.

“Very professional staff, it was a wonderful day! :) There were big waves, it was an experience. I saw dolphins too. It was a wonderful 3 hours on the water. The beer is delicious ;)”

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Madeira: Funchal Sunset Tour by Catamaran

8.Funchal Sunset Tour by Catamaran

★★★★★★★★★★4.4 · 1,200 reviews · 3 hours · from $47

Leave Funchal Marina for a three-hour catamaran cruise along Madeira’s south coast. The crew gives marine-life explanations in English and Portuguese while you look for dolphins and whales, stop near Cabo Girão for a possible swim, and watch the evening light change over the ocean. No animal sightings? You can take a second trip at no extra charge.

“The sunset tour was lovely. We were able to spot some dolphins and then go for a swim, which was really nice! We were initially concerned seeing the number of people on the boat as we thought it may be too crowded, but once on board, there was plenty of space and it was very comfortable.”

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Funchal: Dolphin and Whale Watching Cruise

9.Dolphin and Whale Watching Cruise

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 · 844 reviews · 2 hours · from $58

Set out from Funchal on a two-hour speedboat trip with a captain and marine biologist guide. Land-based spotters use binoculars to locate wildlife, then direct the boat offshore. Expect close sea views, commentary on Madeira’s cetaceans and a lively ride. The boat carries up to 18 people, and you can rebook for €10 if you see neither dolphins nor whales.

“Amazing experience now for the second time for me. Knowledgeable, caring and friendly guide and pilot. Saw a large pod of Atlantic Spotted Dolphins and two sperm whales. Highly recommended. I would do this time and time again...”

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Dolphin and Whale Watching Catamaran Cruise from Funchal

10.Dolphin and Whale Watching Catamaran Cruise from Funchal

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 645 reviews · 3 hours (approx.) · from $48

Set out from Funchal Marina on a three-hour catamaran cruise along Madeira’s south coast. The crew scans for dolphins, whales, and other marine life, while sharing information about the animals and the island. If the sea is calm enough, you can swim below Cabo Girão. No cetacean sightings? You can take the trip again within one year.

“Love everything in this trip, seeing the Dolphins so near was breathtaking! Then that swim in Cabo girao was amazing!!! Well organised and very informative”

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From Calheta: Madeira Whale and Dolphin Watching Boat Tour

11.Madeira Whale and Dolphin Watching Boat Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.8 · 573 reviews · 2 hours · from $67

Meet your crew in Calheta marina for a two-hour speedboat search for whales, dolphins and other marine life. Guides such as Hannah, Paula and Sarah have explained sightings in English and German, while captains including Pedro slow the boat near wildlife. Sightings vary, but the ride itself brings fresh views of Madeira’s coast.

“The trip was wonderful. The team kept care of us very well and told us a lot about the animals we saw. We had luck and saw some groups of dolphins directly beneath our boat and jumping around. Can 100% recommend this trip! Thanks for the unforgettable time.”

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Madeira Pirate Ship: 3-Hour Boat Trip

12.Madeira Pirate Ship: 3-Hour Boat Trip

★★★★★★★★★★4.4 · 528 reviews · 3 hours · from $54

Spend three hours aboard the Santa Maria de Colombo, a replica of Columbus’s flagship built in Madeira. Sail the south coast, watch for dolphins and whales, and stop near Cabo Girão for an optional swim. The trip includes Madeira honey cake and a glass of Madeira wine. Guide Diogo has been praised for an engaging welcome, though the crew may vary.

“Very nice ship and great guide Diogo (Ronaldo lookalike!) who was very engaging and helpful. Nice swim near Cabo Girao. Strongly recommend this trip”

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Funchal: Whale and Dolphin Watching Speed Boat Tour

13.Whale and Dolphin Watching Speed Boat Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 · 526 reviews · 2.5 hours · from $56

From Funchal Marina, a speedboat and marine biologist guide take you along Madeira’s coast to look for whales and dolphins. Land-based spotters help locate marine life, and sightings can include one to four species. Tours last 2.5 hours, carry up to 18 people and include a free return trip if no cetaceans are seen.

“Great experience, everything was organised very well. We especially appreciated marine biologist, Dominique, who accompanied us and explained what species we see and what is interesting about them. We saw 3 groups of dolphins, very exciting!”

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Funchal: Sunset Tour on Traditional Madeiran Boat w/ Drinks

14.Sunset Tour on Traditional Madeiran Boat w/ Drinks

★★★★★★★★★★4.9 · 482 reviews · from $56Top rated

Spend three hours aboard the Dragão, a traditional Madeiran boat, sailing from Funchal toward the protected waters of Cabo Girão. You can swim or snorkel, enjoy drinks and music, and watch the sun set over the coast. English- and Portuguese-speaking guides lead the trip; crew members including Hugo, Rob, and Pedro have been praised for their warm, attentive hosting.

“Incredible experience. I had such a great time on the boat. the skipper and guide were friendly, the timing to start the tour was just perfect. i highly recommend this tour.”

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Seaborn Catamaran trips

15.Seaborn Catamaran trips

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 432 reviews · 3 hours (approx.) · from $42

Join Seaborn Catamaran at Funchal Marina for an approximately three-hour coastal cruise toward Cabo Girão. The crew handles the sailing while you watch for dolphins, whales, and turtles, take in the views, and order a drink at the onboard bar. In summer, there may be time for a swim. Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed.