Madeira : Whales and Dolphins wooden boat excursion

If you’re heading to Madeira and are curious about what it’s like to see whales and dolphins in their natural environment, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve looked into this popular tour and can share an honest, detailed picture of what to expect, so you can decide if it fits your travel style.

What we really like about this experience is the focus on seeing marine life in its natural habitat, which means chances are good that you’ll spot some dolphins or whales. Plus, the friendly, experienced crew seems dedicated to making the journey memorable — plus, they offer a second trip at a discounted rate if you don’t see anything the first time.

A potential consideration is the duration and weather dependence. The trip lasts about three hours, which is manageable for most, but you’ll want to be prepared for the sea conditions and dress accordingly. This tour is especially suitable if you’re after a laid-back, nature-focused outing and appreciate the authenticity of a wooden boat experience.

Overall, if you’re into marine wildlife, enjoy scenic boat rides, and want a trip that offers a good shot at sightings with flexible options, this tour could be a great addition to your Madeira itinerary.

Key Points

• Focus on wildlife: The main goal is spotting whales and dolphins, making it ideal for nature lovers.
• Second trip offer: If no sightings occur, you can go again for just €10 per person.
• Experienced crew: They are friendly and knowledgeable, enhancing the overall experience.
• Value for money: At $45, it’s a reasonably priced outing, especially considering the potential for sightings.
• Comfortable and scenic: The wooden boat provides an authentic vibe, and the views are stunning.
• Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance with a full refund; pay later and keep plans open.

This tour is designed primarily for those eager to see whales and dolphins in their natural environment. It’s a three-hour journey, taking you out into the open waters off Funchal, where these creatures often swim and play. The boat itself is a traditional wooden vessel, which gives a charming, authentic feel compared to larger, modern cruise ships.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start Point: The meeting point is at Pier 8 in Funchal. When you arrive, you’ll find various kiosks, with the Bonita da Madeira kiosk in the middle serving as check-in. This straightforward setup means you don’t have to worry about complicated logistics or long waits.

The Main Journey: Once onboard, the crew will set sail, aiming for the best possible spots for sightings. The trip typically lasts three hours, giving you ample time to scan the waters and enjoy the scenic views of the Atlantic. The crew’s main goal is to spot whales and dolphins, and they’re usually quite skilled at tracking these animals.

Second Chance for Sightings: If you’re unlucky and don’t see anything on your first try, the company offers a second trip for just €10 per person. This generous policy shows their confidence in the likelihood of sightings and makes the experience accessible for everyone.

What You’ll Experience

Expect the crew to be friendly and professional, often sharing interesting facts about the marine creatures they’re searching for. They keep the atmosphere relaxed, making it an enjoyable outing whether you’re a seasoned wildlife enthusiast or just looking for a fun day at sea.

The welcome drink of Madeira wine kicks things off nicely, adding a local touch to the experience. As you cruise along, you might catch glimpses of playful dolphins leaping through the water or see the spouts of whales surfacing.

The Views and Atmosphere

The scenery from the boat is a highlight in itself. The traditional wooden vessel adds a nostalgic charm, and the open water offers spectacular perspectives of the coastline and Atlantic horizon. Be sure to bring a jacket, as it can get breezy out on the water, especially if the weather is cooler or windy.

From reviews, it’s clear that many travelers leave feeling satisfied, especially when they spot dolphins or whales. One reviewer, Norah, shared that “the sailboat is really an experience,” and they saw dolphins, even jumping into the water to enjoy a swim. That kind of hands-on enjoyment is a real perk.

Another guest, Maurel, described the crew as “very professional and friendly,” highlighting the importance of knowledgeable guides who enhance the outing with interesting commentary and safe navigation. The fact that sightings are common enough to earn high praise suggests this tour hits the mark for most participants.

However, it’s worth noting that marine life sightings are not guaranteed. The ocean is unpredictable, and sometimes the animals are shy or simply not present on the day. That’s why the second trip offer is so valuable — it provides a safety net and peace of mind.

The Cost and Value

At $45 per person, this tour offers reasonable value, especially considering the length and focus. The inclusion of a welcome Madeira wine makes it a bit more special, and the potential for a second trip at just €10 shows they’re invested in making sure you get your money’s worth.

Compared to other experiences like luxurious catamaran tours or multi-hour whale-watching expeditions, this wooden boat cruise strikes a nice balance between affordability and authenticity. It’s not a flashy, high-end experience, but that’s part of its charm — you’re out there with a crew that’s genuinely aiming to show you the best of Madeira’s marine life.

This experience is well-suited for travelers who love nature, wildlife, and relaxed boat rides. If you’re traveling with friends or solo and want an honest chance at spotting whales or dolphins, it’s a solid pick.

Those who appreciate a more traditional, nautical vibe will enjoy the wooden boat setting, and the flexible booking policy makes it easy to plan around weather or other activities.

It’s also great for anyone who wants to combine sightseeing with the chance to learn from knowledgeable guides, making the trip both fun and educational.

Final Thoughts

This Madeira whale and dolphin tour delivers on its promise of providing a memorable, wildlife-focused experience. The friendly crew, scenic voyage, and opportunity for multiple sightings make it worthwhile. While marine encounters depend on luck, the second trip option and the overall atmosphere keep the experience engaging and accessible.

If you’re after a laid-back, authentic boat trip that offers a good chance to see marine creatures and enjoy the sea, this tour ticks many boxes. It’s especially ideal for travelers who want to combine scenic views with a touch of adventure, without overspending or overcommitting.

For those who are genuinely interested in wildlife and ocean scenery, this tour can add a special highlight to your Madeira trip — a chance to see the Atlantic’s most playful and majestic inhabitants.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the info doesn’t specify, the three-hour duration and relaxed nature suggest it could be suitable for older children, especially those interested in wildlife. Always check with the provider if you’re considering younger kids.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring a swimsuit, towel, comfortable shoes, and a jacket — weather at sea can be breezy or cooler than on land.

Are there any transportation options included?
Transportation to and from the meeting point is not included unless you select the pickup option. You’ll receive details after booking.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility in case your plans change.

What if I don’t see any whales or dolphins?
You’re offered a second trip for just €10 per person, which improves your chances without extra cost.

How long does the boat trip last?
The trip lasts about three hours, depending on the schedule and weather conditions.

Is the boat accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, but it’s good to confirm in advance to ensure comfort.

Where do I meet the tour?
Check-in is at the Bonita da Madeira kiosk at Pier 8. The exact meeting point and check-in details are provided after booking.

What are the reviews like?
With a 4.4 out of 5 from 10 reviews, most travelers praise the knowledgeable guides, scenic views, and successful sightings, making it a reliable choice for wildlife enthusiasts.

This Madeira whale and dolphin tour is a straightforward, enjoyable way to connect with the ocean and its residents. It’s not about luxury or high-end amenities but about authenticity, fun, and maybe catching a glimpse of some truly incredible marine life.

You can check availability for your dates here: