Funchal: Whale and Dolphin Watching Speed Boat Tour

Planning a trip to Madeira and looking to add something truly memorable to your itinerary? If you’re fascinated by marine life or just want a fun, adrenaline-filled way to see the coast from a different perspective, a whale and dolphin watching speed boat tour might be just what you need. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, I’ve gathered enough info to paint a clear picture of what you can expect, and honestly, it sounds pretty fantastic.

One of the biggest perks of this experience is the guaranteed animal sightings—something that offers peace of mind for wildlife enthusiasts and casual observers alike. Plus, the expert biologist guide and the small-group size ensure you’re not just along for the ride but actually learning something while having a good time. On the flip side, it’s a fast-paced adventure, so if you’re prone to seasickness or prefer a slower cruise, this might not be the best fit. It’s ideal for those who love a bit of adventure, are okay with the weather-dependent nature of outdoor marine activities, and want to make the most of Madeira’s stunning coastline.

If you’re into wildlife watching, enjoy a bit of speed and thrill, and appreciate knowledgeable guides, this tour could be a highlight of your Madeira stay. Just be prepared for variable weather, and keep in mind it’s not designed for those with mobility issues or pregnant women. But if you’re up for an energetic, engaging, and educational outing, this trip ticks a lot of boxes.

Key Points

• Small group size for a more personal experience
• Expert marine biologist guides ensure educational value and identification of species
• Speed boat ride adds adrenaline and gets you closer to the animals
• Guaranteed sightings or second trip free—great for peace of mind
• Duration of 2.5 hours fits well into a busy sightseeing day
• Cost at $68 offers good value considering the experience and guaranteed sightings

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

First off, the speed boat itself is a big draw. It’s a nimble, fast craft that allows for quick and close encounters with marine life, unlike larger, slower boats. This means you’ll likely get a more visceral experience—feeling the spray of the water, experiencing the movement, and getting closer to the animals. Many reviews highlight how exhilarating and fun the ride is, with comments like, “the boat ride itself was worth the price,” and “a rip-roaring speed boat ride” that’s suitable even for those concerned about seasickness, as the fast pace often lessens the side effects for some.

The guarantee of sightings is another appealing aspect. No one wants to spend hours on a boat only to come back empty-handed. This tour guarantees sightings, and if no whales or dolphins are seen, you’ll be offered a second trip at no extra charge. That’s a significant reassurance, especially if you’re eager to see these creatures in the wild.

The expert naturalist guide—usually a marine biologist—means you’re not just looking at animals but also understanding them. Reviewers frequently mention how informative and humorous the guides are, which makes the experience both fun and educational. This adds real value, especially if you’re keen to learn about the local marine species, like pilot whales or sperm whales.

Finally, the coastline views of Madeira are stunning. While the main goal is wildlife watching, the scenery along the rugged coast provides a beautiful backdrop, perfect for photos and simply enjoying the natural beauty of the island from a different angle.

The Itinerary: How the Day Unfolds

The tour starts at the Ventura Nature Emotions kiosk at pier 8 in Funchal Marina. This spot is straightforward to find and convenient for those staying in or near Funchal. Once onboard, the boat heads out into the Atlantic, with the first sights being the striking coast of Madeira. Expect to see dramatic cliffs, charming coves, and lush green landscapes lining the shoreline—an impressive visual treat while you search for marine life.

The main part of the trip involves actively searching for whales and dolphins. The guides will give a brief safety briefing and go over what to expect, including rules to ensure everyone’s safety and responsible wildlife viewing. Landlookouts also assist in spotting animals from shore, boosting the chances of sightings. This collaborative effort means you’re more likely to encounter cetaceans—sometimes up to four species in one trip.

Throughout the ride, you’ll be able to learn from your marine biologist guide, who will help identify species as they’re spotted. Reviews mention how knowledgeable and humorous these guides are, adding a layer of entertainment to the adventure. Many guests also appreciate how close the boat gets, with some even mentioning how pilot whales or dolphins swim right beside the vessel.

The tour ends back at the marina after about 2.5 hours, just enough time to feel the thrill without it dragging on. The short duration makes it a practical choice if you’re combining other activities or simply don’t want to spend the whole day on the water.

What to Expect: Practical Details

Marine wildlife sightings are the core of this experience. Reviewers consistently mention seeing dolphins in large pods, sometimes swimming right next to the boat, or encountering pilot whales and even sperm whales. The land-based lookouts and the high-speed boat approach mean your chances of a close-up are quite high.

Safety and comfort are well-covered. You’ll be provided with life jackets and insurance. The guides are experienced and attentive, and the tour operates in small groups—max 18 people—making it more intimate. Some reviews mentioned feeling very safe, even when splashed by the water or riding at high speed.

The boat ride itself is lively and fun, with many reviews emphasizing the adrenaline rush and the enjoyable, energetic pace. It’s a departure from the usual slow, large boat tours, so expect a bit of splash and movement. Bring a windbreaker and sunglasses to stay comfortable, and a camera to capture those incredible moments.

Cost and value are reasonable. At $68 per person, you’re paying for a well-organized, highly engaging wildlife experience with a strong chance of sightings. The second trip free policy adds extra assurance—if you don’t see whales or dolphins on your first go, you won’t be out of luck.

The Experience: Why It Works for Many Travelers

Many reviews highlight how the guides keep things fun, informative, and safe, making it clear that everyone from wildlife enthusiasts to families who enjoy a bit of adventure can find something to love here. The fact that you can see a variety of species in one trip, sometimes multiple dolphins and whales, makes it a worthwhile outing.

The small group size means less noise and more personalized attention, which many guests appreciate. The speed boat approach feels more dynamic, offering a sense of adventure that larger, slower cruises may lack.

While some reviewers mention that early in the year, wildlife sightings can be fewer, the overall consensus is that the experience is highly enjoyable regardless. The professionalism of the crew and guides shines through, and the guaranteed sightings provide an extra layer of confidence for those nervous about the unpredictability of spotting marine life.

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The Sum Up

This whale and dolphin watching speed boat tour in Madeira offers a fantastic blend of adventure, education, and natural beauty. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a quick, exciting trip that guarantees encounters with marine animals. The small group size, expert guides, and lively boat ride make it stand out from more traditional, slower whale-watching options.

The value for money is evident when you consider the guaranteed sightings, the knowledgeable guides, and the breathtaking coastal views. It’s suitable for those who enjoy active outings and are comfortable on a boat, ready to get close to the Atlantic’s wild inhabitants.

If you’re looking for an experience that mixes fun with education, providing plenty of photo opportunities and genuine wildlife encounters, this tour could very well be a highlight of your Madeira trip. Just remember to pack your windbreaker, sunglasses, and camera—and prepare for a memorable day on the water.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
This specific tour is more suited to adults or older children comfortable with boat rides. It’s not explicitly designed for families with very young kids or mobility issues, and it’s not recommended for pregnant women or those with back problems.

How long is the tour?
The activity lasts about 2.5 hours, which is enough to enjoy the excitement without feeling overwhelmed. It starts at a scheduled time that you should check in advance.

What should I bring?
Bring a windbreaker for the weather, sunglasses to protect your eyes from the sun and spray, a camera to capture the sights, and comfortable clothes suitable for being on a boat.

Are there any safety measures?
Yes, lifejackets are provided, and the crew is experienced. The tour includes a safety briefing before departure to ensure everyone knows what to do.

What if we don’t see any whales or dolphins?
The tour guarantees sightings, and if no animals are seen, you will be offered a second trip free of charge.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak Portuguese and English, so language should not be a barrier for most travelers.

In all, this tour offers a lively, educational, and memorable way to experience Madeira’s marine wonders. If you’re up for a bit of speed, adventure, and the chance to see whales and dolphins in their natural environment, it’s worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: