Funchal on the island of Madeira stands out as a top spot for dolphin watching tours thanks to its clear Atlantic waters and abundant marine life. Whether you’re after a luxurious private experience or a quick, lively safari, Funchal offers options that suit all tastes. For example, the Private Dolphin and Whale Watching Tour in Madeira ([]) provides a personalized trip with a front-row seat to dolphins, whales, and sea turtles, all aboard a private yacht with refreshments and sparkling wine. Meanwhile, the Dolphin – Whale – Turtle – Bird Watching ([]) promises a high-speed adventure with guaranteed sightings, perfect for those eager to cover large distances in a short time.
Most tours on this list are designed to maximize wildlife encounters, with options ranging from half-day excursions to full-day adventures that include land and sea explorations. Many emphasize their small group sizes and expert guides, giving you a more intimate and educational experience. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious private cruise or a fast-paced safari, these tours showcase Madeira’s lively marine environment—making each trip memorable.
1. Private Dolphin and Whale Watching Tour in Madeira
At number 1, the Private Dolphin and Whale Watching Tour in Madeira offers a bespoke experience on a private motor yacht for up to five people. This 2.5-hour trip is tailored to your schedule, with departures throughout the day, making it flexible for your plans. The boat is well-equipped with snorkel gear, refreshments, and a shower, adding a touch of luxury to your adventure. Skippers are attentive, and the chances of spotting dolphins, whales, or even sea turtles are high—several reviews mention being amazed by how quickly they encountered marine life. This trip is perfect for families or small groups seeking privacy and comfort. The personalized service and exclusive experience come at a higher price, but many consider it well worth it for a truly tailored day on the water.
Bottom Line: If you want a private, relaxed experience with the flexibility to snorkel and enjoy champagne while watching marine life, this tour is the top choice.
2. Dolphin – Whale – Turtle – Bird Watching
Coming in at number 2, this high-speed sea safari ([]) is ideal for those eager to see as much marine activity as possible in a short time. The purpose-built boat with 500 HP engines can zip across the water, reaching areas where dolphins, whales, and even turtles often gather. The tour lasts around 2 hours, and the small group size (just 18 people) ensures personalized attention. Guides provide insights into the wildlife and environment, making it both fun and educational. If no marine life is spotted, the company offers a free next trip, which adds great value. Guests have loved this tour for its speed and the chance to see multiple species in one outing.
Bottom Line: If your priority is covering a lot of water quickly and enjoying a lively, guided wildlife search, this safari is a great pick.
3. Guaranteed Whale or Dolphin Watching Tour – Funchal
Number 3 on our list is the Guaranteed Whale or Dolphin Watching Tour. This 2-hour trip is designed for those who want high confidence of seeing marine life, boasting a 99% sighting guarantee. The small-group speedboat takes you along the coast, with guides sharing insights about the local cetaceans. Many reviews confirm the reliability, with guests noting encounters with pilot whales, bottlenose dolphins, and even sea turtles. This tour is accessible and offers excellent value at around $58 per person, appealing to travelers who prioritize wildlife sightings above all else. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers who want a straightforward yet rewarding experience.
Bottom Line: For those who want a high chance of marine life viewing and a quick, efficient trip, this tour delivers.
4. Magic Dolphin Celebrity
Position 4 features the Magic Dolphin Celebrity, a 3-hour adventure combining land exploration and sea cruising. Starting with a Jeep tour around Madeira’s mountainous eastern or western regions, you’ll see stunning landscapes before heading out on a catamaran. The boat, limited to just 25 passengers, offers plenty of space to relax while searching for whales and dolphins. Reviews praise the intimate atmosphere and knowledgeable guides, with some guests enjoying a swim in the Atlantic during summer months. The tour’s strength lies in its combination of land and sea, perfect for travelers who want to experience Madeira’s terrain and marine life in one day.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want a bit of everything, from scenic land drives to wildlife spotting on a spacious catamaran.
5. Wines Tasting Experience and Skywalk with Dolphin Watching
At number 5, this full-day vineyard and wildlife tour ([]) combines Madeira’s rich wine culture with breathtaking views from Girao Cape and a dolphin-watching cruise. It’s perfect for those wanting a relaxed, cultural experience paired with marine adventure. The tour includes visits to local vineyards and a scenic skywalk, along with a boat trip that often results in dolphin sightings. Guests appreciate the small group size and expert guides, making it a well-rounded day. The trip offers good value, especially for travelers interested in both land and sea activities.
Bottom Line: Ideal for wine lovers who also want a chance to see dolphins, fitting a lot into one day.
6. Funchal: Whale Watching and Swimming with Dolphins Cruise
Number 6 is a family-friendly option with the opportunity to swim with dolphins. This 2.5-hour cruise combines whale watching with a chance to jump into the water and interact with marine life, guided by a marine biologist. Reviewers highlight the friendly crew and the chance for kids to get close to dolphins, making this a hit with families. The tour guarantees you’ll see dolphins and whales, or you’ll get another trip free. The focus on interaction rather than just observation makes this tour particularly engaging.
Bottom Line: Perfect for families and wildlife enthusiasts eager to get in the water with dolphins.
7. Guarantee Wild Dolphin & Whale Watching by RIB
Number 7 offers the thrill of a small-group RIB boat ride along Madeira’s coast, with a guarantee of wildlife sightings or a free second trip. The boat’s design allows for close encounters with dolphins and whales, with options for snorkeling if desired. Guests rave about the personalized service and the intimate experience that small boats provide. Some reviews mention the exciting ride and the chance to see pilot whales and dolphins in their natural environment. It’s suitable for travelers who enjoy adventure and want a high likelihood of sightings.
Bottom Line: For thrill-seekers who want a small-group, close-up wildlife experience with a backup plan, this tour hits the mark.
8. Madeira: Whales and Dolphins Wooden Boat Excursion
Position 8 highlights the charm of classic wooden boats, with a 3-hour trip focusing on whale and dolphin sightings. The slower pace and traditional vessel add a nostalgic touch, appealing to those who appreciate a more laid-back vibe. Reviews mention dolphin sightings and the opportunity to jump into the water for a swim. It’s ideal for travelers seeking an authentic maritime experience with fewer crowds and a more personal connection to Madeira’s ocean.
Bottom Line: Best suited for traditional boat lovers and those wanting a relaxing, less commercial experience.
9. Whale and Dolphin Watching Tour in Madeira
Number 9 scores highly with its highly rated reviews (over 1,000), and its flexible options for departure times. The 2.5-hour trip combines marine watching with the chance to swim or snorkel and to learn more about the cetaceans from knowledgeable crew. Guests love the personalized experience on this smaller boat, with some mentioning encounters with pilot whales and Bryde’s whales. The tour balances value with a high success rate of sightings.
Bottom Line: If you want a flexible, well-reviewed trip with water activities and marine education, this option is excellent.
10. Funchal: Hop-on Hop-off Bus & Whale & Dolphin boat Excursion
Number 10 offers a multi-in-one day experience, combining a hop-on hop-off bus tour with a whale and dolphin cruise. This is perfect for travelers wanting to explore Funchal at their own pace while adding a marine adventure. The bus route covers key landmarks, and the boat trip provides wildlife sightings, often with stops for swimming. It’s particularly good for those who want to maximize sightseeing and marine encounters in one day.
Bottom Line: Best for flexible travelers who want to combine land exploration and marine wildlife in one ticket.
11. Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour and Catamaran Whale & Dolphin Watching
This 5-hour ticket offers the freedom to explore Funchal’s highlights with the hop-on hop-off bus, plus an optional whale and dolphin cruise. Guests can visit attractions like the Old Town, Mercado dos Lavradores, and Miradouro de São Vicente, then hop onto the catamaran for marine wildlife spotting. It’s ideal for independent travelers who want a full day blending sightseeing and wildlife. The reviews praise the flexibility and the chance to see dolphins in a relaxed setting.
Bottom Line: For those who prefer exploring at their pace and still want marine wildlife, this combo tour is a smart choice.
12. Madeira Dolphin and Whale Watching on an Ecological Catamaran
Number 12 specializes in eco-friendly travel with its sustainable catamaran experience. The 3-hour cruise offers comfortable viewing from decks or trampoline nets, emphasizing marine ecology. Many guests mention seeing dolphins and whales, with the crew highlighting Madeira’s ocean conservation efforts. The boat’s relaxed vibe appeals to nature lovers and eco-conscious travelers. Reviews often highlight the professionalism and smooth ride, making it a dependable choice for wildlife viewing.
Bottom Line: Best for environmentally minded travelers wanting a responsible and enjoyable marine adventure.
13. Funchal: Sunset over water by RIB boat + optional Dolphin/Whale
Closing our list at number 13 is a sunset RIB boat trip, combining the magic of Madeira’s evening light with the chance to see marine life. The small group experience allows for an intimate outing along the south coast, with optional dolphin or whale watching. Many reviews mention the stunning sunset views and the peaceful atmosphere, perfect for romantic evenings or relaxing end to your day.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a scenic, tranquil experience with a touch of wildlife.
How to Choose the Right Dolphin Watching Tour in Funchal
Selecting the best tour depends on what kind of experience you’re after. If privacy and luxury are your priorities, the Private Dolphin and Whale Watching Tour offers exclusivity. For those eager to cover more water quickly, the Dolphin – Whale – Turtle – Bird Watching is perfect. Budget travelers or families might consider the Whale and Dolphin Watching, which balances affordability with high success rates.
Think about your time constraints—full-day options like the Wines Tasting Experience and Skywalk suit those wanting a mix of land and sea adventures, while quick trips like the Guaranteed Whale or Dolphin Watching are great for a brief but reliable wildlife encounter.
Also, consider your interest in eco-tourism—the Ecological Catamaran emphasizes sustainable travel, appealing to environmentally conscious travelers. And if you’re traveling with children or prefer a more interactive experience, the Swimming with Dolphins offers a memorable chance to get in the water.
In summary, Funchal provides a diverse array of dolphin watching tours suited for different tastes, budgets, and schedules. The private options promise a luxurious, tailored experience, while the speed safaris and eco-friendly cruises satisfy adventurers and conservation-minded travelers alike. For a truly rewarding trip, book early—these tours fill up quickly, especially in peak season. Whether you want to relax with champagne or chase the thrill of spotting pilot whales, Madeira’s waters are waiting.
