Funchal: Dolphin and Whale Watching Cruise

Madeira’s waters are teeming with incredible marine life, and the Funchal Dolphin and Whale Watching Cruise offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness these magnificent creatures up close. Guided by expert marine biologists, this 2-hour adventure aboard the state-of-the-art Sea Safari promises an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts. With comfortable seating, scenic views, and a satisfaction guarantee, the tour invites visitors to embark on a journey of discovery, where they’ll have the chance to spot a variety of cetaceans in their natural habitat.

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Key Points

Enjoy a 2-hour dolphin and whale watching cruise in Funchal, Madeira, aboard the Sea Safari vessel with a capacity of 18 guests and a marine biologist guide.
The cruise is priced from $54.61 per person, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance due to high demand.
Witness the natural habitat of dolphins, whales, birds, and turtles, with a guarantee of sightings and a rebooking or refund option if no sightings occur.
The Sea Safari vessel features comfortable double cushioned seats, powerful engines, and life vests for safety and a 360-degree viewing experience.
The tour is highly rated by previous customers, with the guides praised for their knowledge and expertise, and the overall experience organized and respectful of marine wildlife.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Dolphin and Whale Watching Cruise is a 2-hour tour in Funchal that offers guests the chance to witness these magnificent marine creatures in their natural habitat.

Priced from $54.61 per person, the tour is likely to sell out, so guests are advised to book early. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, guests can reserve their spot and pay later, providing flexibility.

The cruise takes place aboard the Sea Safari, a vessel rebuilt in 2024 with powerful engines for greater distance coverage and accommodates up to 18 guests, a captain, and a marine biologist guide.

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Itinerary and Experience

Starting at the Magic Dolphin in Funchal, the guided tour takes guests on a sightseeing adventure, offering scenic views and the opportunity to spot an array of marine life.

The highlight-packed experience includes:

A highlight-packed experience featuring learning about cetaceans, spotting marine life, and exploring Madeira’s captivating coastline.

Learning about cetaceans from a certified marine biologist
Admiring dolphins, whales, birds, and turtles in their natural habitat
Exploring Madeira’s captivating coastline from the ocean
Optional speedboat and extended marine life viewing tours

The cruise provides a chance to get up close with the region’s diverse wildlife while navigating the beautiful waters surrounding the island.

Boat and Safety Features

The Sea Safari vessel, rebuilt in 2024, boasts two powerful 250hp engines that grant it greater distance coverage to explore Madeira’s coastline. This 18-passenger boat, with a captain and marine biologist guide, offers a comfortable and safe adventure. Guests are provided with life vests, though the cruise is not suitable for those with back problems, heart issues, children under 6, or pregnant women.

| Features | Details |

|———-|———|

| Capacity | 18 guests, 1 captain, 1 marine biologist guide |

| Safety | Life vests provided |

| Restrictions | Not for those with back/heart issues, children under 6, or pregnant women |

| Comfort | Double cushioned seats for 360° views |

| Vessel | Sea Safari, rebuilt in 2024 with two 250hp engines |

Wildlife Encounter Guarantee

Sightings of dolphins or whales are guaranteed on this cruise, ensuring an unforgettable wildlife encounter.

The cruise crew uses powerful binoculars to spot marine life, and if no sightings occur, guests can rebook the tour for only €10 per person. This wildlife encounter guarantee offers peace of mind and an opportunity to witness the majestic creatures in their natural habitat:

Probability of seeing dolphins or whales during the 2-hour tour
Experienced crew dedicated to finding and observing the marine animals
Refund option if no sightings take place
Chance to try again at a discounted rate

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Customer Reviews and Feedback

With an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 692 reviews, this dolphin and whale watching cruise has received highly positive feedback from customers.

Guests praise the knowledgeable guides, who earn a 4.9 rating. The comfortable seating and transportation also earn high marks at 4.8 and 4.6 respectively for value.

Guests praise the knowledgeable guides, who earn a 4.9 rating. The comfortable seating and transportation also earn high marks at 4.8 and 4.6 respectively for value.

Customers consistently highlight the well-organized nature of the tour and the crew’s respectful treatment of marine wildlife.

The combination of a comfortable adventure, expert guidance, and guaranteed wildlife sightings make this cruise a hit with travelers to Funchal.

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What to Bring and Prepare

Guests preparing for the dolphin and whale watching cruise should pack a few essential items to ensure a comfortable and memorable experience.

The tour operator recommends bringing:

Sun protection: sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
Light, comfortable clothing suitable for the weather
A light jacket or sweater as it can be cooler on the water
Camera or smartphone to capture the stunning marine life and scenery

Beyond these basics, the crew provides life jackets and ensures the vessel is well-equipped for a safe and enjoyable journey.

With these essentials, guests can focus on the incredible wildlife sightings and breathtaking coastal views.

Tips for an Unforgettable Experience

To make the most of the dolphin and whale watching cruise, guests should arrive at the departure point a few minutes early to ensure a smooth check-in and boarding process.

Bring a camera and binoculars to capture the stunning marine wildlife up close. Dress in comfortable, layered clothing and wear non-slip shoes, as the boat may encounter choppy waters.

Stay hydrated and apply sunscreen, as the open-air cruise can be sun-exposed. Listen attentively to the marine biologist’s informative commentary to learn fascinating facts about the local cetacean population.

With these simple tips, guests are sure to have an unforgettable experience.

Exploring Madeira’s Marine Wonders

As the boat glides across the azure waters, guests embark on a captivating journey to explore Madeira’s vibrant marine ecosystem.

The adventure promises:

Close encounters with majestic whales and playful dolphins in their natural habitat
Opportunities to spot other marine life, including turtles and diverse seabirds
Insights from a knowledgeable marine biologist guide, providing fascinating details about the local cetacean population
Breathtaking views of Madeira’s rugged coastline, showcasing the island’s natural beauty from a unique vantage point.

This immersive experience allows travelers to connect with Madeira’s remarkable ocean world and appreciate the importance of marine conservation.

The Sum Up

The Funchal Dolphin and Whale Watching Cruise offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the beauty of Madeira’s marine life up close. Guided by expert marine biologists, guests can expect a thrilling and educational experience aboard the state-of-the-art Sea Safari. With a satisfaction guarantee and excellent customer reviews, this tour is a must-do for nature enthusiasts visiting the island. Don’t miss the chance to explore Madeira’s underwater wonders.