Beluga Submarine Glass-Bottom Boat Tour w/ Snorkeling Option

If you’re dreaming of a unique way to experience Madeira’s coast, the Beluga Submarine Glass-Bottom Boat Tour might catch your eye. While it promises an adventure filled with underwater views, snorkeling, and the chance to spot dolphins, whales, and turtles, the reality presents a mixed picture. We’ll walk you through the highlights, practical details, and what you can truly expect from this 41-dollar excursion.

What we love about this tour is the opportunity to see Madeira’s underwater world through a clear glass bottom—perfect for those who prefer not to get wet but still want a peek at vibrant marine life. The inclusion of a visit to Garajau Nature Reserve, a protected marine area, adds an educational touch and a chance to admire some stunning geological formations. Snorkeling in Triggerfish Bay is another highlight, especially since the crew offers basic lessons for beginners. Lastly, the possibility of glimpsing dolphins, whales, and turtles makes this trip exciting for wildlife fans.

On the flip side, a notable consideration is the mixed reviews about the overall experience. Some travelers have expressed disappointment about unfulfilled wildlife sightings and logistical issues. The boat’s small size might also be a concern during rough seas or if you prefer more space. If you’re looking for a seamless, high-reliability wildlife tour, these points are worth keeping in mind.

This experience is ideal for travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides, want a snapshot of Madeira’s marine environment without intense activity, and are okay with some unpredictability regarding wildlife sightings. It suits families, casual explorers, and anyone eager for a relaxed yet visually engaging adventure on the water.

Key Points

• Stunning viewpoints: The glass bottom offers excellent views of the cliffs and marine life.
• Educational component: The crew provides snorkeling lessons, making it accessible for beginners.
• Wildlife sightings: Dolphins, whales, and turtles may be seen, but are not guaranteed.
• Marine protected area: The Garajau Nature Reserve is a highlight, with impressive geology.
• Short and affordable: The 45-minute boat ride offers good value for its price.
• Mixed reviews: Expect some variability in the experience and sightings.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

The Beluga Submarine tour begins at the Funchal Marina, where you’ll meet at the designated Quiosque/Office, marked clearly with a big sign. The ride itself lasts around 45 minutes, heading eastward toward the Garajau Nature Reserve, Madeira’s only marine protected area on the south side of the island. The boat, called the Beluga Submarine, is Madeira’s sole glass-bottom vessel, promising a unique perspective on the ocean’s depths.

First Stop: Garajau Nature Reserve

As you approach the reserve, the boat enters the park at the tip of Garajau headland. Here, the glass bottom allows you to marvel at the impressive 100-foot (30-meter) cliff that drops into the ocean. The geology is striking, with rugged formations and an abundance of fish feeding along the cliff face. The experience of viewing these underwater features from the comfort of the boat is genuinely remarkable, especially since the water clarity is good.

One reviewer noted how “the stunning views through the glass bottom” made this part of the trip memorable. It’s a peaceful encounter with nature, and even if you’re not a fan of snorkeling, this visual experience alone can be quite rewarding.

Triggerfish Bay and Snorkeling

Next, the boat moves into Triggerfish Bay, a shallower area where the waters are calm and clear. Here, you’ll find multiple species of fish swimming close to the boat. This is a prime spot to swim or snorkel, with the crew offering basic lessons for those new to snorkeling—an appreciated touch for beginners.

However, some travelers, like one who mentioned their experience, found the snorkeling short and the facilities less than ideal, citing no dedicated changing areas and no on-board toilets. It’s a reminder to come prepared with your own towel and gear, and perhaps plan to change beforehand.

Searching for Marine Wildlife

After your time in Triggerfish Bay, the boat ventures into deeper waters, where the crew hopes to spot dolphins, whales, and turtles. While the chance of sightings isn’t guaranteed—one reviewer noted that “the whales and dolphins promised in the program did not happen”—the opportunity remains a big draw.

The crew provides full explanations about the wildlife seen, which adds an educational layer to the trip. Just keep in mind that, like many wildlife tours, success depends on luck and timing. It’s best approached with realistic expectations but an open mind.

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Practical Details and What to Expect

Duration and Group Size

The entire experience lasts about 45 minutes, making it a quick but engaging activity. The boat is relatively small, which means it can feel cozy, especially during choppier seas. Some travelers felt that larger waves could make the boat get quite wet, so packing a waterproof jacket or planning accordingly might be wise.

Pricing and Value

At $41 per person, this tour offers a budget-friendly way to see Madeira’s marine environment. Given that it includes glass-bottom views, snorkeling opportunities, and wildlife explanations, many may find it a good value. However, the short duration and uncertain wildlife sightings mean it’s more about enjoying the ride and scenery than guaranteed wildlife encounters.

Meeting Point and Facilities

The meeting point is conveniently located next to Funchal Marina. Be prepared since there are no toilets onboard, so use facilities beforehand. Also, bring essentials like swimsuit, towel, camera, and sunscreen, as these are not provided.

Language and Booking

The tour is offered in English and Portuguese, making it accessible for most visitors. You can reserve and pay later, providing flexibility if plans change. Cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What the Reviews Reveal

While the majority of reviews are mixed, they highlight certain themes. Several travelers appreciated the stunning views of the cliffs and marine life through the glass bottom, describing it as “memorable” and “impressive.” Others, however, expressed disappointment, especially regarding wildlife sightings. One noted, “We were supposed to see dolphins and whales, but it didn’t happen,” reflecting the unpredictable nature of wildlife tours.

The boat’s small size receives mixed reactions—some find it intimate and charming, while others worry about getting wet in rough seas. The snorkel experience is generally seen as short and somewhat limited, with no dedicated changing facilities, which can be inconvenient.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For travelers seeking a low-cost, scenic, and educational marine tour, the Beluga Glass-Bottom Boat offers a decent introduction to Madeira’s waters. The stunning geological views and the possibility of spotting wildlife make it a worthwhile option, especially if you’re flexible with wildlife sightings. It’s best suited for those who enjoy casual excursions rather than intense wildlife safaris or those craving a longer, more immersive experience.

However, if you’re particularly eager to see dolphins or whales, or desire a more spacious boat with better facilities, you might want to explore alternative tours that offer longer durations or larger vessels. The boat ride’s affordability and the chance to see the coastline from a new perspective make it a memorable part of any Madeira holiday.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The entire boat experience lasts approximately 45 minutes, making it a quick but engaging activity.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes glass-bottom views, a visit to Garajau Nature Reserve, the opportunity to snorkel or swim, and wildlife explanations.

Can I see dolphins or whales?
Yes, there’s a chance to see dolphins, whales, and turtles, but sightings are not guaranteed. The crew provides commentary on wildlife when observed.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
While the crew offers basic snorkeling lessons, you should bring your own towel, swimwear, camera, and sunscreen since these are not provided.

Is there a restroom onboard?
No, there are no toilets onboard, so use facilities before the trip.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable swimwear and bring sunscreen. A waterproof jacket is recommended if the weather looks choppy.

Where do I meet the tour?
Meet at the Quiosque/Office located at Cais 8, next to Funchal’s Marina, with clear signage indicating the glass-bottom boat.

Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in your travel plans.

To sum it up, the Beluga Submarine Glass-Bottom Boat Tour offers a cost-effective way to enjoy Madeira’s coastal scenery and marine life. It’s best suited for travelers who value visual experiences and relaxed sightseeing rather than guaranteed wildlife sightings or luxury amenities. If you’re looking for a short, scenic adventure with educational value, this tour might be a good pick—just keep expectations in check.

You can check availability for your dates here: