Funchal, on the sunny island of Madeira, is a superb place to explore by boat. The coastline offers dramatic cliffs, golden beaches, and opportunities to see whales and dolphins up close. Whether you’re seeking an adrenaline rush, a luxurious sunset, or a family-friendly adventure, Funchal’s boat tours deliver. We particularly love the Whale Watching and Swimming with Dolphins Cruise for its chance to get in the water with these friendly creatures, and the Luxury Sunset Cruise for a relaxing evening with stunning views. Each offers a different way to experience the island from the water, making the most of Madeira’s rich marine life and scenic coastlines.
For travelers interested in combining sightseeing with local culture, the Hop-on Hop-off Bus & Whale & Dolphin boat excursion is an excellent choice, offering both land-based exploration and marine encounters. Alternatively, if your time is limited but you want a taste of everything, a half-day boat trip along the east coast provides breathtaking views and swimming breaks. Whatever your style, Madeira’s marine tours promise memorable moments. Below, we detail ten of the best options, helping you choose the perfect match for your trip.
1. Funchal: Whale Watching and Swimming with Dolphins Cruise
At number one, this 2.5-hour cruise combines whale and dolphin watching with the chance to jump in and swim alongside these curious animals. Led by a marine biologist, the trip guarantees sightings of cetaceans—we’ve read reviews praising the knowledgeable guides and the thrill of seeing pods of dolphins including calves. The boat departs from Rota dos Cetáceos and offers a safety briefing before heading out into the Atlantic.
What makes this tour stand out is the opportunity to swim with dolphins, which is increasingly rare on tourist cruises. While the presence of a calf means swimming isn’t always possible, many guests still feel they’ve experienced something special. Expect to see wild dolphins and whales, learn about their environment, and enjoy a close encounter with nature. The tour is ideal for families or travelers eager for a personal, wildlife-focused adventure. The price is reasonable for such a unique interaction, and the reviews highlight the passionate guides and the excitement of the sightings.
Bottom Line: Perfect for animal lovers and active travelers wanting an authentic marine experience in Madeira.
2. From Funchal: Porto Santo 1-Day Cruise and Tour
Heading to Madeira’s sister island? This day cruise takes you across the strait to Porto Santo, famous for its 9-kilometer stretch of golden sand beach. The trip includes a ferry ride, making it a smooth journey with plenty of chances to relax and enjoy the ocean views. Once ashore, you’ll visit lookouts like the Miradouro da Portela, which offers panoramic vistas of the island’s rugged terrain and ocean.
The tour features a guided land tour, where you’ll discover Porto Santo’s unique features, plus free time to explore or relax on the beach. Reviews note that the ferry crossing is comfortable and the island tour is informative, with enough free time to dine or swim. The combination of scenic views and leisure makes this suitable for families or those wanting a relaxed day away from Funchal’s city buzz.
Bottom Line: A good choice if you want to combine island hopping with scenic sightseeing and some beach time.
3. Funchal: New Year’s Eve – Luxury Catamaran with food & drink
For a truly memorable celebration, this luxury New Year’s Eve cruise offers an elegant experience on a sleek catamaran. Priced at around $352 per person, it includes premium food and drinks, creating a festive atmosphere with a touch of class. The boat departs from Funchal and provides a small, intimate group setting, perfect for a romantic or special-night outing.
The cruise features strategic anchoring spots to view the fireworks and enjoy the stunning bay views. The personalized service ensures everyone has a memorable night, with comfortable seating, music, and panoramic vistas. The reviews mention the “superb experience,” noting that the service is attentive and the atmosphere exclusive. This cruise is best suited for couples or anyone looking to ring in the New Year with style. Be sure to book early, as this is a popular and limited-availability experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for a special occasion or a romantic sunset with high-end touches.
4. Funchal: Hop-on Hop-off Bus & Whale & Dolphin boat Excursion
This combo ticket allows you to explore Funchal’s highlights by bus for two days, then hop on a dolphin and whale-watching catamaran. It’s a flexible way to see both the city’s sights and its marine life, with the added bonus of visiting attractions like Blandy’s Wine Lodge and Bordal Embroideries Factory.
The boat tour promises dolphin and whale sightings and includes a swimming and snorkeling break at Fajã do Cabo Girão. Reviews emphasize the smooth logistics, with hotel pickups and clear vouchers. The combination makes this suitable for travelers who want a full-day experience without paying separately for land and sea adventures.
Bottom Line: A practical, value-packed option for families or travelers who want variety and convenience.
5. Madeira: 5-hour East Coast Boat Excursion
This half-day tour covers Madeira’s east coast with a swimming stop and an interactive crew that explains the area’s distinctive geology and wildlife. It’s a great way to see the dramatic cliffs and lush landscapes of the island with a lunch included, making the experience both scenic and satisfying.
Guests have praised the informative commentary and the friendly crew, noting that the swimming stop is brief but refreshing. The tour departs from Av. Do Mar and is perfect for those with a limited schedule but who still want a taste of Madeira’s natural beauty and marine life.
Bottom Line: A solid choice for a shorter tour that combines sightseeing, swimming, and local insights.
6. 8-Hour Luxury Cruise from Funchal to Ponta de São Lourenço
For a full day of exploration, this luxury catamaran cruise offers a chance to visit Ponta de São Lourenço, famous for its stunning volcanic formations and clear waters. The trip includes snorkeling, paddleboarding, and a delicious onboard lunch. The relaxed pace and premium service make it ideal for travelers wanting comfort and scenic variety.
Guests rave about the stunning coastal views and the well-organized itinerary. This cruise is best suited for those who enjoy water activities and want a comprehensive day out in Madeira’s east coast. The exclusivity and quality make it more of an investment, but many see it as well worth the cost.
Bottom Line: Excellent for active travelers seeking a full-day adventure with premium amenities.
7. Madeira: Exclusive Luxury Sunset Cruise
This 3-hour sunset cruise combines luxury and relaxation on a stylish catamaran. The breathtaking views of the sun setting over Funchal Bay are the highlight, with opportunities for snorkeling and paddleboarding. The cruise departs from Luna Sea Lux Madeira and offers a serene atmosphere with drinks and snacks.
Guests comment on the extraordinary views and the intimate setting, perfect for a romantic evening. The cruise’s cozy size and attentive service make it a popular choice for couples. The only potential drawback is the weather-dependent nature of sunset trips, so booking in advance is wise.
Bottom Line: For a peaceful, scenic experience, this is a top pick.
8. Madeira: Private Catamaran Tour with Snorkeling
For those seeking privacy and customization, this 3-hour private tour offers the chance to sail along Madeira and Porto Santo, snorkel in crystal waters, and enjoy on-board snacks. The personalized itinerary can include specific spots or activities you prefer.
Rated an impressive 4.9/5, travelers praise the friendly crew, the flexibility, and the quality of snorkeling gear. The departure point is Quinta do Lorde Resort Hotel Marina, making it convenient for those staying nearby. If you want a tailored experience and the comfort of a private boat, this is a fantastic option.
Bottom Line: Best suited for couples or small groups wanting a bespoke, intimate boat day.
9. Sunset Trip + Dolphin & Whale Watching – Speed Boat
This speed boat experience packs excitement into just 2.5 hours, combining dolphin and whale watching with a sunset cruise. Departing from Avenida Arriaga, the fast-paced ride offers a more adrenaline-fueled adventure.
Reviews note the dynamic experience and the chance to see marine life in a lively setting. The boat is well-suited for active travelers or those looking for a shorter, more energetic trip. The combination of speed, wildlife, and sunset views makes it stand out from calmer, longer cruises.
Bottom Line: Great for thrill-seekers who want marine encounters with a side of sunset beauty.
10. Madeira: Sunset Cruise With a Swim and Drink
Finally, this affordable 3-hour cruise on a charming wooden schooner offers swimming, dolphin and whale spotting, and a relaxing drink as the sun dips below the horizon. For just $41 per person, it’s a budget-friendly way to enjoy Madeira’s evening coast.
The experience emphasizes the tranquility of the Atlantic and the joy of swimming in its cool waters. The reviews are positive, especially appreciating the casual, friendly atmosphere and the chance to see playful dolphins. It suits travelers who want a relaxed, scenic end to their day without breaking the bank.
Bottom Line: A charming, inexpensive option for a scenic sunset with marine wildlife.
How to Choose Your Perfect Cruise or Boat Tour in Funchal
When deciding which tour to book, consider your budget, time available, and interests. For wildlife enthusiasts, the Whale Watching and Swimming with Dolphins offers a rare chance to interact with marine animals, while the Luxury Sunset Cruise appeals to those seeking serenity and stunning vistas. Family travelers may prefer the Hop-on Hop-off combo for its versatility, and active adventurers will love the full-day Ponta de São Lourenço cruise.
Check the availability and weather conditions—many tours are weather-dependent, especially sunset trips. Booking early is advisable, particularly for special occasions like New Year’s Eve. For a personalized experience, the private catamaran tour provides flexibility and exclusivity.
Final Thoughts
Funchal’s boat tours cover a broad spectrum, from wildlife encounters to luxury sunset cruises, and even island-hopping adventures. If you’re after a close-up wildlife experience, the Whale Watching and Swimming with Dolphins Cruise is hard to beat. For those wanting a luxurious, relaxed evening, the Luxury Sunset Cruise is a stunning choice.
Travelers with limited time should consider the East Coast boat tour for a quick yet scenic escape, while families or groups seeking a blend of land and sea will find the Hop-on Hop-off Bus & Marine Excursion highly practical.
No matter which tour you choose, Madeira’s waters are a splendid way to see the island from a different perspective. Remember to book ahead, pack your camera, and prepare for a memorable maritime adventure.