From Funchal: Whales and Dolphin Adventure Tour

Thinking about adding a marine adventure to your Madeira trip? This whale and dolphin watching tour from Funchal offers a quick, engaging glimpse into the ocean’s most fascinating creatures. It’s a popular choice for travelers wanting an exciting, nature-focused experience without taking up the whole day.

One thing we really appreciate about this tour is its speedboat format, which allows you to cover more ground in just two hours — increasing your chances of seeing whales and dolphins. Plus, the small group size (max 12) keeps things cozy and personal, unlike larger catamaran trips. That intimacy means you’ll get plenty of time to observe wildlife up close and enjoy the scenery without feeling crowded.

However, a potential downside is that wildlife sightings aren’t guaranteed — despite the high 99% chance of seeing marine mammals, nature can be unpredictable. Also, no food is included, so you’ll want to plan for snacks or a quick stop at the café. This tour suits those who love adventure, wildlife, and are comfortable with the slight risks that come with outdoor boat trips.

If you’re someone who values knowledgeable guides, close wildlife encounters, and a fast-paced, energetic ride, then this experience could be just right. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a more intimate and adrenaline-filled marine adventure during their Madeira stay.

Key Points

• Speedboat advantage: Cover more area quickly, increasing wildlife sighting chances.
• Small groups: Max 12 people, making it more personal and less crowded.
• Wildlife focus: High likelihood (99%) of seeing whales or dolphins, but sightings depend on animal behavior and sea conditions.
• Additional activities: Possible to enter the water with certain dolphins if conditions allow.
• Inclusive equipment: Snorkeling gear is provided, but no food—grab a snack beforehand.
• Weather-dependent: Tours only run in good sea conditions; weather can cause cancellations or rescheduling.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What You Can Expect on the Tour

Starting Point and Convenience

The tour departs from the new marina in Funchal, specifically from Blue Safari Madeira at door 4 in front of the sea. The location is easy to find, with parking nearby at the Almirante Reis lot. The provided video guide makes it even simpler to find your way. Arriving about 20 minutes early is recommended to get geared up and ready for departure.

The Boat Experience

You’ll be stepping onto a custom-made speedboat, which promises a lively and fun ride. Its powerful engines let you zip around Madeira’s coast, maximizing your chances of spotting whales and dolphins. The small group size (up to 12 travelers) ensures a more personal experience, giving everyone ample opportunity to enjoy the marine wildlife without the crowds common on larger vessels.

Marine Wildlife Spotting

With approximately a 99% chance of sightings, the tour aims to show you a variety of cetaceans. Reviewers mention seeing dolphins swimming close and even some whale sightings, including sperm whales and pilot whales, although these are not guaranteed every trip. One reviewer shared that they were lucky enough to spot six sperm whales, which they called “amazing.”

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Swimming Possibilities

Depending on animal behavior and sea conditions, there may be an exciting chance to enter the water with dolphins, particularly common and spotted dolphins. This is not always guaranteed but adds a special touch when it does happen. The experience of being in the water with wild dolphins — holding onto a rope attached to the boat while they swim nearby — is described as absolutely incredible by those who’ve been lucky enough to do it.

The Scenic Journey

Beyond wildlife, this tour offers a chance to marvel at the crystal-clear waters around Madeira and the rugged coastline. The ride itself is energetic and fun, perfect for those who want a bit of adrenaline as they explore the Atlantic.

Duration and Cost

The tour lasts for about 2 hours, which is a great length for a quick but satisfying marine adventure. At $56 per person, it’s a competitive price considering the inclusions, especially the chance to see marine mammals in the wild and enjoy a guided, intimate boat ride.

The Guides and Reviews

Guides play a significant role in shaping the experience. From reviews, it’s clear that knowledgeable marine biologists and skilled skippers make a real difference. Many travelers praise the guides for their friendly attitude, depth of knowledge, and enthusiasm. One reviewer mentioned how their guide shared numerous fascinating stories and facts, making the trip not just exciting but also educational.

Other reviews highlight the passion for marine life and the respect for animals that guides adhere to, creating a more ethical and responsible wildlife watching experience. Whether spotting dolphins swimming alongside the boat or catching a glimpse of whales breaching the surface, the guides’ expertise helps maximize your chances of a memorable encounter.

Authentic Experiences

Multiple travelers expressed how seeing dolphins swim close and even swimming with them made this trip unforgettable. For example, one reviewer called it a “piece of magic,” especially the part where they got to enter the water with dolphins in groups of four for a few minutes.

Flexibility and Customer Care

If the weather isn’t suitable or animals aren’t spotted, the tour provider offers free rescheduling or vouchers valid for two years. This flexibility is reassuring, especially given the ocean’s unpredictable nature.

The Practicalities

What’s Included

• Use of snorkeling equipment (mask & snorkel), allowing you to get even closer to underwater life if conditions permit.

What’s Not Included

• No food onboard, but there’s a café nearby where you can purchase snacks or drinks.

Meeting Point & Accessibility

The departure point is well-marked and easy to access. Arriving 20 minutes early ensures smooth check-in and equipment setup. The tour operates in English and Portuguese, with knowledgeable guides who cater to international travelers.

Weather and Cancellation Policies

Since the tour is weather-dependent, poor sea conditions can lead to cancellations or rescheduling. The provider’s full refund policy or rescheduling options provide some peace of mind if the weather isn’t cooperating.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This adventure is perfect for travelers who want a quick yet immersive wildlife experience. If you love marine mammals, enjoy an energetic boat ride, and value small-group intimacy, you’ll find this tour very satisfying. It’s also suitable for those who appreciate guided education about marine life and want a responsible, ethical wildlife experience.

However, if you’re pregnant or traveling with children under 10, keep in mind this tour isn’t suitable for them. It’s also good to note that sea sickness could be an issue for some, given the speed and waves.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, providing a compact yet exciting marine adventure.

What is the chance of seeing whales or dolphins?
The chance is very high — 99% — but as with all wildlife trips, sightings depend on animal activity and sea conditions.

Is swimming with dolphins included?
If conditions and animal behavior permit, you might have the chance to enter the water with dolphins, especially common or spotted dolphins. This is a special option but not guaranteed.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a jacket. No meals are provided, so consider grabbing a snack beforehand.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund or reschedule if weather conditions affect the trip.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 10 years or pregnant women, mainly due to the nature of the boat ride.

Where does the tour depart from?
From the new marina in Funchal, specifically from Blue Safari Madeira at door 4, with parking nearby at Almirante Reis.

Final Thoughts

This Whales and Dolphins Adventure from Funchal offers an exciting peek into the Atlantic’s marine world, with the bonus of a small, intimate boat ride that maximizes wildlife sightings. It’s a practical choice for curious travelers eager to see whales and dolphins in their natural habitat — especially if they’re comfortable with the unpredictability of wildlife encounters.

The tour’s small group size, knowledgeable guides, and the chance to swim with dolphins when possible make it stand out among Madeira’s marine experiences. While it’s weather-dependent and no food is included, the overall value and genuine love for marine life shine through.

If you’re after a fun, fast-paced adventure that balances education with wildlife excitement, this tour fits the bill. Just remember to stay flexible, bring your camera, and soak up the ocean’s beauty during your time on the water.

Enjoy your marine adventure in Madeira — whether or not you spot a whale, it’s bound to be a memorable part of your trip!

You can check availability for your dates here: