9 VIP Experiences in Madeira Worth the Money

1.Dolphin & Whale Watch Luxury Catamaran Cruise

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

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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2.All Inclusive Whale and Dolphin Watching Luxury Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.9 · 2,573 reviews · 3 hours · from $93

From Funchal’s new marina, sail with a small group to look for whales, dolphins and turtles, then stop to swim beneath Cabo Girão. The three-hour trip includes sparkling wine, local snacks, unlimited drinks and snorkels. Crew members such as Liv, David and skipper Bruno have been praised for their attentive hosting, though wildlife sightings are never guaranteed.

“Excellent staff very friendly and knowledgeable. Great variety of drinks and snacks. Unfortunately no dolphins or whales!”

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3.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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4.VipDolphins Luxury Whale Watching

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 1,709 reviews · 3 hours (approx.) · from $95Top rated

Sail from Funchal’s marina on a modern catamaran with a maximum of 17 passengers. The three-hour trip searches for dolphins and whales, then pauses for a swim and snorkeling near Cabo Girao. Snacks, drinks, towels, and snorkeling gear are included. Crew names vary, with Sheila and Liv among those praised for attentive service.

“Great start views of the coast were incredible, snack and drinks provided. All questions answered and recommendations given. Highlight of trip was the pilot whales swimming close to us. Thank you Nick and crew I’m sure we will be back. Maggie thanks for info on where to visit.”

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5.Funchal Private 4-Seater VIP Mercedes / 8-Seater Minibus

★★★★★★★★★★4.9 · 223 reviews

Spend eight hours exploring Madeira with a private guide in a four-seat Mercedes or eight-seat minibus. Choose an east, west, central or north route, or ask for a tailor-made day. Guides including Lucy, Carlos, Victor, Pedro and Tony have led tours with flexible stops, local history and lunch recommendations.

“It was an excellent tour and Carlos our guide was very professional and knowledgeable”

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6.Half Day Tour on a Luxury Catamaran on Madeira Island

★★★★★★★★★★4.0 · 159 reviews · 3 hours (approx.) · from $48

Set out from Praça do Povo in Funchal for about three hours aboard a catamaran with a maximum of 36 passengers. Watch for dolphins, whales, turtles, and other cetaceans, then stop for a swim before returning along Madeira’s coast. Snorkeling gear, WiFi, and a restroom are on board; drinks are available to buy.

“Beautiful boat which was immaculate. The crew were very bubbly yet professional. We were lucky to see a pod of pilot whales and a turtle. The crew didn’t disturb either for long which was good to see.”

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7.Cabo Girao Sunset Cruise on Luxury Catamaran

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 · 84 reviews · 3 hours · from $47

From Funchal, a guide leads this three-hour catamaran cruise along Madeira’s southern coast to the towering Cabo Girão cliff. Watch for dolphins and whales, then take a swim or snorkel stop before seeing the sun set over the Atlantic. Drinks are available to buy onboard, and bathrooms are on the boat.

“Was a Last minute booking and thank god we did book! We had the most amazing time! The guide was so lovely and helpful explaining how to kayak and stayed with us while we were travelling to the beach so make sure we were all doing okay! when we got to the beach he told us a bit of history about the island and animals which was really interesting! Had the best time snorkelling and saw some amazing fish! The colours on them were gorgeous. All together had the most amazing time, we go given 2 waters and 2 redballs for the trip and got given snorkelling equipment as well.…”

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8.Luxury Yacht & Sailing Sunset Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 · 10 reviews · from $74

From Funchal, join a three-hour yacht trip along Madeira’s south coast, with a small group of up to 12. Sip a welcome drink, sample local snacks, and take in coastal views near Fajã dos Padres, Cabo Girão and Câmara de Lobos Bay. Weather permitting, you can swim or snorkel before watching the sunset from the water.

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9.West tour – Porto Moniz VIP 4X4 Wrangler Tour 8h trip

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 3 reviews · 8 hours

Starting in Caniço, this eight-hour private Wrangler tour visits Ribeira Brava, Ponta do Sol, Paúl da Serra, Fanal Forest, Porto Moniz, Seixal, São Vicente and Encumeada. Expect off-road travel, a possible 20-minute levada walk, a lunch stop at your own expense, and a guide in English, French, Portuguese or Spanish.

“Exactly as it was advertised, fantastic trip, comfortable car and Brito was a great guide.”

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