Dolphins and Whales Watching Tour by RIB boat in Funchal

If you’re headed to Madeira and looking for a way to connect with the island’s incredible marine life, this Dolphins and Whales Watching Tour by RIB boat could be just what you need. We’ve seen this tour pop up as a favorite among travelers — and with good reason. It offers a lively, up-close look at the creatures that make Madeira’s waters so unique, all while enjoying some of the best coastal views on the island.

What instantly stands out with this experience are the high chances of wildlife sightings and the small, intimate group setting. The ride promises an exhilarating 2.5 hours along Madeira’s southern coast, with the possibility of seeing dolphins, whales, and even turtles in their natural habitat. Plus, there’s an option to swim with the dolphins if conditions permit, which sounds like a real highlight for animal lovers.

A potential consideration is the reliance on weather conditions — a big factor in deciding whether the trip can go ahead or not. It’s also worth noting that parking fees and snacks aren’t included, so you’ll want to plan for those extras if you’re making a day of it.

This tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate wildlife, enjoy boat rides, and want to see Madeira from a different perspective — closer to its marine environment. It’s especially appealing if you’re after a small-group, personalized experience rather than a crowded boat.

Key Points

• Wildlife Encounters: Very likely to see dolphins, whales, and sometimes turtles, with a high chance based on the tour’s reputation.
• Small Group: Limited to 18 travelers, making it more personal and flexible.
• Flexible Options: Possibility to swim with dolphins for an extra fee, depending on wildlife activity.
• Spectacular Views: Includes stops at Funchal Bay, Cabo Girão, and a passing by a historic fishing village.
• Duration and Price: About 2.5 hours for $62.26 per person, offering good value for a wildlife-focused adventure.
• Weather Dependency: Confirmations depend on good weather, and cancellations are possible if conditions aren’t suitable.

An Honest Breakdown of the Experience

The Itinerary and Stops

The tour kicks off from the Marina do Funchal, giving you a chance to see the city from a new angle even before you set off. As the boat departs, you’ll be treated to impressive views of Funchal’s skyline and coastline. It’s a lively start that sets the tone for the adventure ahead, especially if you enjoy seeing a place from the water.

The primary goal is wildlife spotting, and the boat’s route is flexible — this means your captain might take you in any direction based on where the animals are active. This unpredictability is part of the charm, as the crew is experienced in tracking marine life. It’s not just about ticking boxes but about the thrill of the search.

Midway through, you’ll likely enjoy a panoramic view of Cabo Girão, one of the world’s highest sea cliffs. The tour might swap this stop with another highlight depending on where the wildlife takes you, but the cliff’s dramatic drop and sweeping views are a consistent feature.

On the way back, the boat passes by a historic fishing village, offering a glimpse into local life and adding a bit of cultural context to your marine adventure. This pass-by isn’t the main focus, but it provides a quiet, scenic moment after the excitement of wildlife spotting.

Wildlife and Marine Encounters

The real draw here is the chance to see dolphins, whales, and turtles in their natural environment. The review from Peter highlights a trip that was both educational and fun, with a special mention of seeing dolphins at the northern tip of the island. That extra effort to reach more remote parts of Madeira shows a commitment to giving travelers a genuine wildlife experience.

The possibility of swimming with dolphins is an exciting add-on, though it’s not guaranteed. The cost of €20 per person is only charged if you manage to enter the water, and only if conditions allow — so it’s a nice bonus if it works out, but not something to count on.

The Boat and Group Size

The RIB boat itself is designed for adventure — fast, nimble, and providing excellent visibility. Being limited to 18 travelers makes the experience much more personal than large cruise ship excursions. Guides and crew are generally knowledgeable, making the trip both fun and educational.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For $62.26, you’re paying for the boat trip, all necessary safety equipment, and taxes — a fair price for this type of wildlife experience. However, snacks and parking are extra, so bring some water or a small snack if you like. You’ll want to plan ahead if you’re relying on public transportation, as the meeting point is near public transit options.

The Bottom Line on Value

Considering what’s included and the chance to see wildlife in a natural setting, this tour offers good value. It’s not a long or expensive trip, but it delivers a memorable, immersive experience. The chance to get close to dolphins and whales, coupled with stunning coastal views, makes it a worthwhile addition to your Madeira itinerary.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re the kind of traveler who loves nature and wildlife, this trip is right up your alley. It’s suitable for those who are comfortable on a boat for a few hours and enjoy a small, relaxed group setting. Families with older children might particularly enjoy it, especially if they’re interested in marine animals.

It’s also a great choice if you’re after a more personalized experience, away from large crowds. Just keep in mind that weather can influence the trip’s success, so flexibility and patience are key.

Final Thoughts

This Dolphins and Whales Watching Tour on a RIB boat in Funchal offers a lively, nature-filled escape along Madeira’s coast. With excellent odds of spotting marine life, a small-group setting, and stunning views of the island’s cliffs and villages, it’s a solid pick for wildlife fans and adventure seekers alike.

While it’s not a guaranteed wildlife safari, the experience’s intimacy and the chance to see animals in the wild make it a memorable outing. Plus, the option to swim with dolphins adds an extra layer of excitement, should wildlife cooperate. It’s a straightforward, enjoyable way to connect with Madeira’s marine environment without breaking the bank.

If you’re looking for a fun, nature-focused trip with a good chance of wildlife sightings and beautiful scenery, this tour could be just right. Just remember to check the weather forecast beforehand and be prepared for a possible cancellation if conditions aren’t suitable.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The trip lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the coastal views and wildlife spotting.

What’s included in the price?
The ticket covers the boat trip, all necessary safety gear, and taxes. Snacks, parking fees, and the dolphin swim add-on are extra.

Can I swim with the dolphins?
Yes, there’s an option to swim with dolphins for €20 per person, but this is only possible if wildlife and conditions permit. The fee is paid on-site in cash.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 18 travelers, making it more intimate and allowing for better interaction with guides.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While no specific age restrictions are mentioned, the experience is generally suitable for those comfortable on a boat and interested in wildlife.

What happens in bad weather?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at XpointMadeiraFunchal Marina and concludes back at the same spot.

How do I book in advance?
Most travelers book about 10 days ahead, and you can reserve your spot online via the linked provider.

If you’re keen on a lively, wildlife-centered adventure with a good dose of stunning scenery, this RIB boat tour is worth considering on your Madeira trip. Just keep an eye on the weather, and go prepared for an exciting day out on the water.