Funchal: RIB Whale Watching Cruise and Optional Dolphin Swim

Embark on an exhilarating whale watching adventure off the coast of Madeira. This Funchal RIB Cruise promises a 99% chance of spotting dolphins and whales, with small group sizes for a personalized experience. Enjoy a safety briefing, refreshments, and a photo stop at the stunning Cabo Girao Cliff. For an extra thrill, opt for the Dolphin Swim and get up close with these magnificent creatures. Prepare to be captivated by the beauty of Madeira’s marine life and create lasting memories.

Key Points

• RIB Whale Watching Cruise in Funchal lasts 2.5 hours and is priced from £43.72 per person with a 99% chance of spotting at least one cetacean species.
• Optional Dolphin Swim experience is available for an additional €20, subject to local animal protection laws.
• Small-sized group tours provide an intimate experience, and the itinerary includes a photo stop at Cabo Girao Cliff.
• Meeting point options are XpointMadeira and Funchal, and all necessary safety equipment and refreshments are included during the tour.
• Guests are advised to arrive at least 15 minutes prior to departure and to wear appropriate clothing for the weather conditions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour offers a RIB Whale Watching Cruise with an optional Dolphin Swim experience. Priced from £43.72 per person, the 2.5-hour excursion is likely to sell out, so early booking is recommended.

Guests can reserve now and pay later to secure their spot. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, travelers have the flexibility to plan their trip.

The tour provides a small-group setting for an intimate experience along Madeira’s coastline, with a high chance of spotting at least one cetacean species.

The Dolphin Swim option is available for an additional €20, subject to local animal protection laws.

Experience and Itinerary

Small-sized group tours provide an intimate experience for guests, allowing them to fully enjoy the whale watching adventure.

With a 99% chance of spotting at least one cetacean species, the itinerary includes a safety briefing, a boat cruise along Madeira’s stunning coastline, and the chance to watch for dolphins and whales.

Guests can also opt for a €20 swim with dolphins, subject to local animal protection laws.

The experience culminates in a photo stop at the breathtaking Cabo Girao Cliff, ensuring lasting memories of this unforgettable tour.

Meeting Point and Logistics

Two starting location options are available for guests to choose from: XpointMadeira and Funchal.

The meeting point may vary depending on the booked option. The tour includes all necessary safety equipment, applicable fees, taxes, and fuel surcharges. Refreshing drinks and snacks are provided throughout the experience.

Guests should arrive at the designated meeting point at least 15 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time to ensure a smooth boarding process.

Depending on the selected option, the meeting point location will be clearly communicated to ensure a seamless arrival and start to the whale watching cruise.

Customer Reviews and Feedback

The whale watching cruise has received an excellent rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars based on 91 reviews.

Customers have consistently praised the fantastic guides, comfortable small group size, and informative experiences.

Some key highlights from the reviews include:

1. "The guides were incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about the wildlife."

2. "The small group size made the cruise feel intimate and personalized."

3. "We were able to see whales and dolphins up close, which was an unforgettable experience."

4. "The only suggestion would be to improve signage for the boarding process."

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Important Information and Recommendations

To ensure a comfortable and successful whale watching experience, visitors are recommended to bring appropriate clothing, including a windbreaker, sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, and a jacket.

Checking the weather conditions before the trip is also advised.

A private tour option is available for groups up to 18 passengers, which may be more suitable for those seeking a more personalized experience.

Snorkeling with dolphins requires prior booking as an add-on, as it’s subject to local animal protection laws.

These recommendations will help maximize the enjoyment and safety of the whale watching cruise.

Preparing for the Adventure

Before embarking on the whale watching cruise, visitors should ensure they’ve the necessary gear and preparations in place.

To make the most of the experience, consider the following:

Dress for the weather, pack sun protection, bring a camera, and stay hydrated to make the most of the whale watching experience.

1. Dress for the weather – Bring a windbreaker, sun hat, and warm layers to stay comfortable on the boat.

2. Pack sun protection – Apply sunscreen and wear sunglasses to shield your skin and eyes from the glare.

3. Bring a camera – Capture the stunning views and potential wildlife sightings to treasure the memories.

4. Stay hydrated – Bring a water bottle to keep yourself refreshed during the 2.5-hour adventure.

Exploring Madeira’s Marine Life

As the boat gently glides along Madeira’s picturesque coastline, passengers eagerly scan the horizon for any signs of the island’s captivating marine life. With a high chance of spotting at least one cetacean species, the excitement builds. Onboard, a comprehensive information table informs guests about the potential marine encounters:

| Species | Description | Likelihood |

| — | — | — |

| Whales | Majestic giants roaming the deep blue | Excellent |

| Dolphins | Playful and acrobatic creatures | Very High |

| Sea Turtles | Graceful reptiles gliding through the waves | Moderate |

| Seabirds | Soaring above the boat in search of prey | High |

The RIB whale watching cruise promises an immersive and unforgettable experience exploring Madeira’s diverse marine ecosystem.

Customizing Your Whale Watching Experience

What other ways can travelers customize their whale watching experience in Funchal? From private tours to specialized photography packages, there are several options to enhance the adventure:

1. Private Tour: For groups up to 18 people, a private tour allows for a more personalized experience with a flexible itinerary.

2. Photography Package: Capture the whales and dolphins in their natural habitat with a guided photography tour, complete with tips from the experts.

3. Dolphin Swim: Upgrade the experience by adding a swim with the playful dolphins, subject to local regulations.

4. Early Bird Special: Book the tour early to secure the best rates and availability.

The Sum Up

The Funchal RIB Whale Watching Cruise offers an exhilarating adventure to spot dolphins and whales along Madeira’s stunning coastline. With a 99% sighting rate, small group sizes, and an optional Dolphin Swim, it’s an unforgettable way to experience the island’s marine life. Whether you’re seeking thrills or a personalized encounter, this tour promises an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts.

You can check availability for your dates here: