Funchal: Dolphin and Whale Watching Sailing Trip

Funchal, the vibrant capital of Madeira, offers an exceptional opportunity for nature enthusiasts. A 3-hour dolphin and whale watching sailing trip departs from the Funchal Marina, allowing visitors to explore the island’s stunning coastline. Priced affordably at just $48.96 per person, this excursion promises an unforgettable experience on the open waters. With a knowledgeable crew and complimentary drinks, travelers can anticipate breathtaking views and the chance to encounter the ocean’s majestic inhabitants.

Key Points

• This 3-hour sailing trip from Funchal Marina offers the chance to see dolphins, whales, and sea turtles along the Madeiran coastline.
• The excursion includes a stop at Cabo Girão, Europe’s highest sea cliff, and complimentary drinks with scenic coastal views.
• Snorkeling gear is provided for underwater exploration, and the trip is guided by experienced captains and crew.
• The tour is priced from $48.96 per person and has an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 based on over 1,100 reviews.
• The experience is not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments, and certain restrictions apply, such as no smoking and limited luggage.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This sailing trip offers visitors a chance to spot dolphins, whales, and sea turtles up close in the waters around Funchal, Madeira.

Priced from $48.96 per person, the 3-hour excursion departs from the Funchal Marina. Likely to sell out, the tour includes free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option.

Priced from $48.96 per person, the 3-hour excursion departs from the Funchal Marina with free cancellation and a reserve now, pay later option.

Passengers can enjoy complimentary drinks onboard while taking in scenic views of the Madeiran coastline.

With knowledgeable guides, this dolphin and whale watching trip provides great value, earning 4.6 out of 5 stars from over 1,100 reviews.

Itinerary and Highlights

The sailing trip departs from the Funchal Marina, where passengers can search for dolphins, whales, and sea turtles up to 3 miles from the coast.

After the search, the boat stops at Cabo Girão, the highest sea cliff in Europe at 1,903 feet. Passengers can enjoy a complimentary drink on board while taking in the scenic views of the Madeiran coastline.

The trip includes snorkeling gear, allowing travelers to explore the underwater world.

In case of bad weather, an alternative day is offered or a full refund is provided.

Included Services

The sailing trip includes a round-trip cruise, along with a guide, captain, and crew to enhance the experience. Guests will receive snorkeling gear to explore the underwater marvels near Cabo Girão, the highest sea cliff in Europe. Plus, a complimentary drink is served onboard, allowing travelers to sit back and enjoy the scenic Madeiran coastline. The trip also includes hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a seamless experience from start to finish.

| Included Services |

| — | — | — |

| Round-trip Sailboat Cruise | Guide, Captain, and Crew | Snorkeling Gear |

| Complimentary Drink | Hotel Pickup and Drop-off | – |

Important Information and Restrictions

Although the dolphin and whale watching sailing trip is an exciting adventure, it may not be suitable for individuals with mobility impairments.

Guests are advised to wear comfortable shoes and bring essential items like sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. Smoking is prohibited, except for electronic cigarettes.

In case of inclement weather, the tour operator offers an alternative day or a full refund. Oversize luggage isn’t allowed on the sailboat.

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Customer Reviews and Ratings

Travelers have overwhelmingly praised the Dolphin and Whale Watching Sailing Trip, with an impressive overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 based on over 1,100 reviews.

Reviewers highlight the friendly and informative crew, praising the scenic views and enjoyable experience despite not always seeing wildlife.

Customers appreciate the great value, with one reviewer noting it’s the "best value with knowledgeable guides."

Another traveler from the UK said they "saw wildlife and enjoyed swimming."

Exploring the Madeiran Coastline

As the sailing trip departs from Funchal Marina, passengers embark on a captivating journey to explore the breathtaking Madeiran coastline.

They’ll witness the dramatic cliffs of Cabo Girão, Europe’s highest sea cliff towering 1,903 feet above the waves. The crew skillfully navigates the sailboat along the rugged shoreline, providing opportunities to spot dolphins, whales, and sea turtles in their natural habitat.

Passengers can even don snorkeling gear and enjoy the vibrant marine life.

Throughout the tour, travelers enjoy scenic vistas of the island’s lush greenery and picturesque villages along the coast.

Encountering Marine Wildlife

While scanning the open waters, passengers eagerly search for signs of marine life. The crew expertly navigates the sailboat, spotting pods of playful dolphins leaping out of the waves.

Suddenly, the telltale spout of a whale appears in the distance, captivating onlookers. As the boat draws closer, the majestic creature surfaces, offering a breathtaking display.

Passengers also spot loggerhead sea turtles gliding gracefully beneath the clear, blue surface. The thrill of these close wildlife encounters leaves a lasting impression, making the sailing trip a truly memorable experience.

Snorkeling at Cabo Girão

After the exhilarating wildlife sightings, the sailing trip takes a serene turn as passengers don their snorkeling gear for a dip in the waters off Cabo Girão.

This breathtaking sea cliff, the highest in Europe, provides a stunning backdrop for the snorkeling adventure. Guests enjoy the crystal-clear waters, catching glimpses of vibrant marine life.

The experience offers a chance to appreciate the natural beauty both above and below the surface. Returning to the sailboat, passengers are treated to scenic views of the Madeiran coastline, rounding out an unforgettable day on the water.

The Sum Up

This dolphin and whale watching sailing trip offers an exceptional opportunity to explore the stunning Madeiran coastline and encounter marine wildlife. With a knowledgeable crew, complimentary drinks, and snorkeling gear, the 3-hour excursion promises an unforgettable adventure. Priced at just $48.96 per person, it’s an affordable way to experience the breathtaking beauty of Funchal from the ocean.

You can check availability for your dates here: