Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour and Catamaran Whale & Dolphin Watching

The hop-on hop-off bus tour and catamaran whale and dolphin watching experience in Funchal offers an excellent way to explore the city’s top attractions. Visitors can conveniently access 29 key sites, from scenic viewpoints to historical landmarks, with a 1-day bus pass valid for 48 hours. The tour also includes a thrilling catamaran cruise to spot marine life, complemented by wine tasting and local discounts. This adventure promises an enriching experience, and there’s more to discover about the flexible scheduling and informative audio guides.

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Key Points

This tour combines a hop-on hop-off bus tour of Funchal with a catamaran cruise for whale and dolphin watching.
The tour lasts 5 hours with flexible exploration and includes 29 stops, wine tasting, and discounts on other activities.
The catamaran cruise departs twice daily from the VMT City Pier, with an adult ticket price starting from $49.19.
The hop-on hop-off bus operates every 30-45 minutes, allowing for ample exploration of the city’s highlights.
Accessibility is limited, as the tour is not wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps during the catamaran cruise.

Tour Overview

This tour offers visitors a comprehensive experience in Funchal, Portugal, combining a hop-on hop-off bus tour and a catamaran whale and dolphin watching excursion.

Over the course of 5 hours, guests can explore the city at their own pace, hopping on and off the bus to visit 29 stops, including landmarks like the Funchal Cathedral and Pico dos Barcelos viewpoint.

The catamaran cruise along Madeira’s coast provides an opportunity to spot marine life, while a wine tasting and shopping discounts enhance the experience.

With a 3.7 average rating from 51 reviews, this tour is a flexible and engaging way to discover Funchal.

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Ticket Details

A 1-day pass for the hop-on hop-off bus tour provides 48-hour ticket validity, allowing ample time to explore Funchal’s 29 stops at one’s leisure.

The ticket includes a catamaran cruise along Madeira’s coast, a wine tasting at Old Blandys Wine Lodge, and free entry with a 10% discount at Bordal Embroideries Factory.

Passengers also receive a 10% discount on other Yellow Bus tickets and access to discounts on monuments, museums, and leisure activities.

Hotel pick-up and drop-off are provided for convenience.

With this comprehensive ticket, visitors can make the most of their time in Funchal.

Itinerary Highlights

The hop-on hop-off bus tour offers 29 conveniently located stops in Funchal, allowing passengers to explore the city’s renowned landmarks at their own pace. The tour includes must-see attractions like the Avenida Do Mar, Varadouros Old Gate, Funchal Cable Car, and the iconic Mercado dos Lavradores.

Itinerary Highlights
Avenida Do Mar	Varadouros Old Gate (City Gates)	Funchal Cable Car	Mercado dos Lavradores
Funchal Cathedral	Pico dos Barcelos viewpoint	Promenade do Lido	–

The catamaran whale and dolphin watching cruise departs from the VMT City Pier Quiosque, offering passengers the chance to spot marine life along Madeira’s scenic coastline.

Bus Tour Stops

The hop-on hop-off bus tour offers 29 conveniently located stops throughout Funchal, allowing passengers to explore the city’s renowned landmarks at their own pace.

Key stops include the Avenida Do Mar, Varadouros Old Gate, Funchal Cable Car, Mercado dos Lavradores, and the stunning Funchal Cathedral.

The tour also takes guests to the scenic Pico dos Barcelos viewpoint and the picturesque Promenade do Lido.

With such a comprehensive route, travelers can discover Funchal’s rich history, architecture, and natural beauty at their convenience.

Catamaran Departure Points

Departures for the catamaran whale and dolphin watching cruise take place at the VMT City Pier Quiosque, located in front of Stop 2 on the hop-on hop-off bus tour route. Cruises depart at either 10:30 AM or 3:00 PM, allowing guests flexibility in planning their day.

Departure Time	Departure Location
10:30 AM	VMT City Pier
3:00 PM	VMT City Pier
Duration	3 hours
Adult Ticket	From $49.19
Child Ticket	From $24.60

Guests must check-in for the catamaran cruise at least 30 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time.

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Tour Experience

With a flexible hop-on hop-off bus tour, guests can explore Funchal at their own pace, disembarking at any of the 29 stops to visit attractions like the Avenida Do Mar, Funchal Cathedral, and Pico dos Barcelos viewpoint.

An audio guide provides commentary on the city’s history and culture.

The catamaran cruise offers the chance to spot dolphins, whales, turtles, and seabirds along Madeira’s coast.

Travelers also receive discounts on select restaurants, bars, and attractions, allowing them to maximize their savings during the 5-hour tour experience.

Accessibility and Check-in Requirements

The tour is not wheelchair accessible, though children can attend if accompanied by an adult, and service animals are permitted. However, infants must sit on laps during the catamaran cruise. Booking a catamaran spot is mandatory, and check-in 30 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time is required.

Check-In Requirement	Catamaran Departure
30 minutes before	10:30 AM or 3:00 PM

Failure to check-in on time may result in forfeiture of the catamaran portion of the tour.

Operating Schedule

The hop-on hop-off bus departs every 30 minutes from 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM, and then every 45 minutes from 1:15 PM to 5:00 PM.

This allows visitors to explore Funchal’s top attractions at their own pace.

The catamaran cruise departs at 10:30 AM and 3:00 PM, lasting approximately 3 hours.

Travelers should check in for the catamaran excursion at least 30 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time.

This flexible schedule provides ample opportunities for guests to experience both the bus tour and the whale and dolphin watching throughout the day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Catamaran Cruise?

No, guests are not allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the catamaran cruise. Refreshments and snacks are available for purchase on board to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all passengers.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour?

The hop-on hop-off bus tour doesn’t have any age restrictions. Children can join, but they must be accompanied by an adult. The tour is accessible for all ages, allowing visitors to explore Funchal at their own pace.

Is the Catamaran Cruise Suitable for Individuals With Motion Sickness?

The catamaran cruise experience may not be suitable for those prone to motion sickness, as the boat’s movement on the open water could trigger discomfort. It’s recommended to consult with a healthcare professional or crew if you have concerns about seasickness.

Can I Purchase Tickets on the Day of the Tour or Do I Need to Book in Advance?

Tickets can be purchased on the day of the tour, but it’s recommended to book in advance to secure availability. Advance booking also ensures you get the best prices and don’t risk the tour selling out.

Are There Any Special Offers or Discounts Available for the Tour Package?

The tour package includes several discounts, such as a 10% discount on other Yellow Bus tickets, free entry and 10% discount at Bordal Embroideries Factory, and discounts on tickets to monuments, museums, and leisure activities.

The Sum Up

The Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour and Catamaran Whale & Dolphin Watching experience offers a convenient and enriching way to explore Funchal. With flexible scheduling, informative audio guides, and the opportunity to spot marine life, this adventure promises an enjoyable day for visitors. The 1-day bus pass and catamaran cruise provide access to key attractions, scenic viewpoints, and local establishments, making it an ideal choice for a comprehensive Funchal sightseeing experience.