From Funchal: West Bays Sailing Tour with Lunch

A Practical Look at the Funchal West Bays Sailing Tour with Lunch

If you’re dreaming of a day out on the water in Madeira, this West Bays Sailing Tour with Lunch offers a compelling mix of scenery, wildlife, and relaxation. While I haven’t joined it myself, the reviews, details, and experience descriptions paint a picture of how enjoyable and memorable this trip could be for anyone wanting to see the island from a different perspective.

What really appeals to us are the chance to spot dolphins and whales in their natural environment and the opportunity to snorkel among colorful marine life. Plus, the delicious lunch included adds a nice touch of value, making it more than just a boat ride. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that this tour isn’t suited for those with mobility issues, and weather conditions can impact the experience — a common consideration for any ocean adventure.

This experience seems ideal for ocean enthusiasts, wildlife lovers, and those wanting a scenic, laid-back day on Madeira’s coast. If you’re after a combination of wildlife, stunning views, and a comfortable, guided outing, this tour could be a great fit.

Key Points

• Wildlife Watching: Excellent opportunity to see dolphins, whales, and sea turtles close up.
• Scenic Cruising: Sail along major bays like Ponta do Sol, Ribeira Brava, and Câmara de Lobos, taking in fantastic views.
• Snorkeling & Swimming: Dive into clear waters, with equipment provided, for a peek at Madeira’s vibrant underwater life.
• All-Inclusive: The tour includes a guided experience, lunch, drinks, and snorkeling gear, offering good value.
• Duration & Flexibility: About 5 hours long; check availability for specific start times.
• Weather Consideration: Bad weather can lead to cancellations or rescheduling.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Experiencing Madeira’s Coast from the Water

The highlight of this tour, no doubt, is the chance to see Madeira’s coast from a fresh angle. Starting from the Marina do Funchal, you’ll hop aboard a spacious sailing yacht and head out into the Atlantic. This isn’t a giant party boat — it’s a smaller, more intimate experience, which is reflected in consistent praise for the friendly crew and personalized service.

The actual route is quite well thought out. You’ll sail past major bays like Ponta do Sol and Ribeira Brava, both known for their stunning scenery. From reviews, it’s clear that many find these sights captivating, especially when combined with the chance to spot dolphins and whales. In fact, some guests have even seen whales swimming close to the boat, creating unforgettable moments.

Wildlife and Marine Life

One of the most celebrated aspects of this tour is the wildlife sightings. Many guests have described the experience as almost magical, with dolphins swimming right alongside the boat, sometimes quite close. A reviewer mentioned, “We even saw dolphins swim so close to the boat,” which is pretty special if you’re into marine life. Whale sightings are also possible, although, as with all wildlife, nature can’t be guaranteed.

The chance to see sea turtles is another bonus, and the guides work to make wildlife spotting a priority. The boat’s movement, combined with the scenic beauty of the coast, creates a peaceful yet exciting environment.

The Snorkeling Experience

After cruising along the coast, the tour makes a stop for swimming and snorkeling. You’ll have access to snorkeling gear, including visors, which are suitable for exploring the vivid underwater world. Guests have described the experience as “good fun,” with some remarking that they enjoyed “diving deep into the ocean to discover the underwater magical world.” For many, this adds a memorable dimension to the day, especially if you’re into marine exploration.

Lunch and Refreshments

The included lunch is often praised for its quality. While details are limited, reviews mention “good food” and “delicious lunch,” which, after a few hours at sea, hits the spot. Drinks are also part of the package, keeping everyone refreshed while soaking in the scenery. The fact that the experience includes drinks and snacks makes it feel quite complete, especially considering the price.

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What to Expect from the Itinerary

The day begins at Praça do Povo, where you’ll meet your guide in front of the kiosk. Arriving 30 minutes early is recommended so you can get settled and chat with your crew before setting sail. The boat itself is described as spacious, which helps with comfort on a 5-hour journey.

Once out at sea, the boat will cruise along the coast, with opportunities for wildlife watching—dolphins and whales often make appearances. The guides are known for their enthusiasm and knowledge, making the trip both fun and informative.

A key part of the cruise is the stop at Ponta do Sol Bay — a highlight for many guests because of its natural beauty and tranquil vibe. From there, you’ll pass Ribeira Brava, Calhau da Lapa, Fajã dos Padres, and Cabo Girão, all offering spectacular views from the water.

The lunch stop is usually at a scenic spot where you can relax, swim, and snorkel. The weather, of course, plays a part in how much you enjoy this portion, but generally, the water is clear and inviting.

The tour wraps up back at the starting point, with plenty of time to chat about the day or plan your next adventure.

Practical Details and Considerations

While the tour seems well-organized, here are some factors to keep in mind:

• The activity does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll need to get to Praça do Povo on your own.
• The tour runs for about 5 hours, so bringing comfortable shoes, swimwear, sunscreen, and a jacket is advisable.
• Shoes are not allowed onboard, which is typical for boats, but remember to wear sandals or flip-flops that are easy to remove.
• The tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments, likely due to boat access limitations.
• If you’re prone to seasickness, consider taking precautions, as the boat can get a bit choppy — some reviews mention this.
• In case of bad weather, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled, with a full refund offered.

Is This Tour Worth It?

When considering the value for money, $80 per person for a 5-hour adventure that includes wildlife spotting, snorkeling, a guided commentary, and a tasty lunch seems quite reasonable. The reviews consistently praise the crew’s friendliness and the overall experience, with many calling it a “fantastic day on the water” and “highly recommended.”

This is a solid choice if you want a relaxed, scenic, wildlife-rich experience that isn’t overly commercial or crowded. The small boat size helps create a more personal touch, making the trip feel less like a tour and more like a day spent with friends.

Who Would Really Enjoy This?

This tour is perfect for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts who want to see Madeira’s coast from the ocean. It’s also suitable for those who appreciate good food and a relaxed pace. If you’re traveling with children who are comfortable on boats and enjoy marine life, this could be a memorable family outing, but it’s not explicitly marketed as family-friendly.

Those interested in photography will appreciate the stunning coastal vistas and the chance to capture dolphins or whales in action. Keep in mind, if you’re looking for a luxury experience or a calm, smooth ride, this smaller vessel might be a bit choppier than larger, commercial cruises.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this West Bays Sailing Tour with Lunch offers a genuine, enjoyable way to experience Madeira’s stunning coastline. From the personalized service to the wildlife sightings and snorkeling opportunities, it ticks many boxes for a memorable day at sea.

While it has some limitations — like the lack of hotel transfers and possible weather cancellations — its highlights outweigh these concerns. It’s well-suited for travelers who want a balance of adventure, scenery, and relaxation without breaking the bank.

If you love being on the water, spotting marine life, and enjoying a good meal amid breathtaking scenery, this tour might just be what you’re looking for.

FAQs

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
No, snorkeling equipment is included in the tour. You’ll have visors and gear provided, so you can explore the underwater world without extra hassle.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the tour is generally suitable for those comfortable on a boat. Keep in mind that it’s a small vessel, so consider the age and comfort level of children before booking.

What should I wear on the tour?
Comfortable clothing, swimwear, and a towel are recommended. Don’t forget sunscreen, a jacket for wind or cooler weather, and comfortable shoes (which must be removed before boarding).

Will I see dolphins or whales?
Wildlife sightings depend on the day’s conditions, but many guests have reported seeing dolphins swimming close to the boat and occasionally whales. It’s a highlight for wildlife lovers.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts about 5 hours, starting in the late morning or early afternoon, depending on availability.

Are drinks included?
Yes, drinks are included along with lunch, making it a hassle-free experience.

Where do I meet for the tour?
Meet at Praça do Povo, in front of the Gavião Madeira kiosk, 30 minutes before the scheduled start time.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations are possible up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund or rescheduling, depending on the weather conditions.

Is there any transportation provided?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, so plan to get to the meeting point yourself.

All in all, this tour offers a balanced mix of scenery, wildlife, and relaxation. If you’re after a day on the ocean with good company and great views, it’s worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: