Madeira’s stunning coastline provides the backdrop for an unforgettable whale and dolphin watching adventure. Hop aboard a fast-paced RIB boat and let expert crew members guide you to captivating encounters with these magnificent marine creatures in their natural habitat. With an impressive 4.9-star rating, this 2-hour tour promises breathtaking views and exhilarating moments. But what makes this experience truly unique, and why should adventure-seekers book it right away?
Key Points
- Exciting 2-hour RIB boat tour departing from Calheta, Madeira, offering up-close encounters with whales and dolphins in their natural habitat.
- Prices start from $60.07 per person, with early booking recommended for this popular whale and dolphin watching experience.
- Expert crew and spotters ensure an informative and thrilling journey, with the chance to see pilot whales and swimming alongside dolphins.
- Scenic views of Madeira’s coastline and a fast-paced boat ride add to the overall adventure for nature enthusiasts.
- Comfortable clothing, sun protection, and camera are recommended, with restrictions on luggage, large bags, and drones.
Tour Overview
The tour offers an exciting whale and dolphin watching experience in the waters off the island of Madeira.
Guests will embark on a 2-hour RIB boat tour departing from Calheta. The tour is priced from $60.07 per person and is likely to sell out, so early booking is recommended.
The fast-paced and exhilarating boat ride provides the opportunity to view magnificent whales and dolphins in their natural habitat. Expert crew and spotters guide the tour, ensuring an informative and memorable experience.
The tour’s availability and language options make it accessible to a wide range of travelers.
Hope to spot more marine life? These other whale watching options in Madeira are worth considering
Highlights of the Experience
Guests can expect an exhilarating and up-close encounter with marine life on this whale and dolphin watching tour. Expert guides and experienced spotters will lead the way, helping to locate and observe magnificent whales and dolphins in their natural habitat. The fast-paced RIB boat ride will provide scenic views of Madeira’s coastline, while the thrill of the journey adds to the overall experience. From close encounters with pilot whales to swimming alongside dolphins, this tour offers an unforgettable adventure for nature enthusiasts.
| What You’ll See | What You’ll Do | What You’ll Feel |
|—————–|—————|——————|
| Whales | Boat Ride | Excitement |
| Dolphins | Spotting | Wonder |
| Coastal Views | Observing | Awe |
Meeting Point and Itinerary
Participants meet at the H2O Madeira – Whale & Dolphin Watching office, located on Level 0 of the Marina of Calheta, approximately 20 minutes prior to the tour’s scheduled departure.
The tour begins and ends at this starting location.
The itinerary includes:
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Boarding the high-speed RIB boat for an exhilarating marine adventure.
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Searching for majestic whales and dolphins in their natural habitat around the island of Madeira.
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Returning to the marina after the 2-hour tour, with plenty of time for photos and reflecting on the experience.
What to Bring and Restrictions
Comfortable clothing, a lightweight jacket, and sun protection like sunglasses and sunscreen are recommended for the whale and dolphin watching tour.
Guests should pack water and bring a camera to capture the scenic views and marine life.
Luggage, large bags, and pets aren’t allowed on the tour. Drones are also prohibited.
The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, those with back or mobility issues, or individuals with heart problems.
The crew will provide further guidance to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants.
More Great Tours NearbyCustomer Feedback and Reviews
Based on the 221 reviews, the whale and dolphin watching tour has earned an impressive overall rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars.
Customers have raved about their experiences, highlighting:
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Exciting close encounters with pilot whales and dolphins, as noted by Wendy from the UK.
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The awesome experience of seeing migrating dolphins, as described by Dana from France.
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The thrill of spotting a sperm whale and swimming with dolphins, as shared by Lizzie from the UK.
The overwhelmingly positive feedback underscores the tour’s ability to deliver unforgettable marine encounters in the waters off Madeira.
Want to see more dolphins? We've reviewed these other marine encounters in Madeira
Booking and Availability
How easily can one book this whale and dolphin watching tour? The tour is likely to sell out, so it’s best to reserve your spot in advance. Booking can be done directly through the tour operator’s website. Availability and starting times are limited, so check the calendar to find an option that works for your schedule. To make a reservation, simply select your preferred date and time, provide the necessary information, and complete the booking process. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the departure, providing flexibility for unforeseen changes in plans.
| Availability | Weekdays | Weekends |
| — | — | — |
| Morning | ✓ | ✓ |
| Afternoon | ✓ | ✓ |
| Evening | ✘ | ✘ |
| Night | ✘ | ✘ |
Getting to Calheta, Madeira
Calheta, the starting point for the whale and dolphin watching tour, is situated on the southern coast of the beautiful Madeira Island.
There are a few convenient ways to reach the marina in Calheta:
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By car: The marina has a parking house, making it easy to park and access the tour starting point.
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By bus: Several bus lines connect Calheta to other parts of the island, allowing for a stress-free arrival.
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By taxi: Taxis are readily available and can provide a direct ride to the H2O Madeira office at the marina.
Safety and Precautions
Although safety is a top priority on the whale and dolphin watching tour, participants can rest assured that the experienced crew takes all necessary precautions.
The RIB boats are well-maintained and equipped with life jackets. Guests are briefed on safety protocols before departure.
Certain restrictions apply to ensure everyone’s well-being – pregnant women, those with back or mobility issues, and people with heart problems are advised not to participate.
Bringing large bags or luggage, as well as pets and drones, isn’t permitted.
With these measures in place, guests can focus on the exhilarating experience of spotting whales and dolphins in their natural habitat.
The Sum Up
This thrilling RIB boat tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the wonders of Madeira’s marine life up close. With expert crew guidance, guests can expect breathtaking encounters with whales, dolphins, and stunning coastal vistas. Boasting an impressive rating, this tour is a must-try for nature enthusiasts seeking an exhilarating and unforgettable adventure. Secure your spot early to avoid disappointment.
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