Funchal: Exclusive tour on a traditional Xavelha boat

Thinking about exploring Madeira from a different angle? This Xavelha boat tour offers an authentic taste of the island’s seafaring roots, all nestled in a cozy, small-group setting. It’s a chance to step back in time, enjoy incredible scenery, and connect with local culture in a way that larger cruises just can’t match.

What we really love about this experience is its charm and intimacy. The historic boat, built in 1936, isn’t just a vehicle—it’s a floating piece of Madeira’s past, lovingly cared for and full of stories. Plus, the guide’s storytelling adds a personal touch that makes the journey feel like a shared adventure, not just a sightseeing trip. The opportunity to snorkel at Cabo Girao and enjoy a Madeira wine toast makes it even more memorable.

One thing to consider is that this tour isn’t suited for everyone. If you’re prone to seasickness, have mobility challenges, or low stamina, this might not be the best fit. Also, since it’s a small, intimate boat, the group size is limited to just 8 participants, which is perfect for a personal experience but might feel a bit tight if you prefer larger groups.

This tour appeals most to curious travelers who love stories, appreciate authentic experiences, and want a peaceful, scenic cruise with a touch of local history. Families with older children or those looking for a relaxed, culturally rich outing will find this particularly appealing.

Key Points

• Authentic Madeira Experience: A historic boat built in 1936, offering a genuine glimpse into local maritime culture.
• Intimate Group Setting: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a cozy atmosphere.
• Storytelling & Culture: Guides share legends, curiosities, and local anecdotes, enriching your understanding of Madeira.
• Scenic & Relaxing: Stunning views of cliffs, bays, and the coastline from the sea, with a refreshing stop for swimming.
• Value for Money: At $59, it combines cultural richness, scenery, and a brief adventure in one package.
• Family-Friendly (with considerations): Suitable for older children who can handle a boat trip, but not recommended for those with mobility issues or seasickness.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why This Tour Stands Out

If you’re after a trip that’s more than just a boat ride—something that captures Madeira’s spirit—this Xavelha boat experience is a winner. It’s not a mass-produced cruise, but rather a heartfelt journey into the island’s maritime past, led by friendly guides eager to share local lore and traditions. We loved the way this tour balances history, scenery, and small-group intimacy, creating a relaxed yet engaging vibe.

What to Expect During the Tour

The adventure begins at the Funchal Marina, where you’ll hop aboard one of Madeira’s iconic Xavelha boats. These boats, built in 1936, aren’t just visually appealing—they’re a working piece of Madeira’s fishing history. The boat is colorful, well-maintained, and clearly cared for, which adds to the overall charm.

As you set sail, the guide will take you along the south coast toward Cabo Girao, one of the highest sea cliffs in the world. Along the way, you’ll hear stories and legends about local traditions and maritime life, making the journey more meaningful. The small group size of just 8 participants ensures you can ask questions and enjoy a more personal experience.

The Highlights of the Trip

Câmara de Lobos is your first major stop, where the boat cruise offers a relaxed 50-minute ride along the coast. The scenery here is stunning—bays, cliffs, and green slopes that only sea views can reveal. The atmosphere on board is friendly, and the guides are attentive, sharing interesting facts about the landscape and local history.

Cabo Girao snorkeling is the next highlight—an opportunity to cool off and admire the underwater world. The short 20-minute stop allows you to dip into crystal clear waters, which reviews rave about for their cleanliness and the variety of fish spotted. Remember to bring your swimsuit, goggles, and towel for this part.

The tour culminates with a Madeira wine toast on the boat, a simple but memorable gesture that adds a celebratory note to the experience. Plus, you’ll get the chance to snap a photo on the fame buoy, immortalizing your adventure.

The Real Value in This Experience

At just $59 per person, this tour offers a lot. You’re paying for the authenticity of sailing aboard a historic boat, the expert storytelling, and the opportunity for a quick swim in pristine waters. The reviews highlight the knowledgeable, friendly guides and the stunning coastline views as major pluses, making it clear that many find this experience worth every penny.

Many reviewers also mention how relaxing and enjoyable the ride is, especially with the calm seas and the intimate group size. For those looking to connect more deeply with Madeira’s cultural roots, the stories and the traditional boat add a layer of authenticity you won’t find on larger, more commercial excursions.

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The Itinerary In Detail

Starting Point: Funchal Marina

Your day kicks off at the Funchal Marina, a vibrant hub bustling with boats and local activity. It’s a convenient spot to meet your guide, who will welcome you aboard the Xavelha. The boat itself is a visual treat—brightly painted and lovingly maintained, a true symbol of Madeira’s maritime heritage.

Câmara de Lobos Cruise (50 minutes)

Once underway, the boat glides past the colorful fishing village of Câmara de Lobos. This stretch of coast is known for its bays and rugged cliffs, making it perfect for photography and soaking in scenic views. The guide will share stories about local traditions, fishing, and the boats themselves—adding color and context to the sights.

Snorkeling at Cabo Girao (20 minutes)

The highlight for many is the stop at Cabo Girao, where you can jump into the crystal clear waters. If you’re lucky, you’ll see schools of fish and perhaps even spot some of the marine life highlighted in reviews. The short duration means you won’t be in the water long, but enough to enjoy the refreshing contrast to the warm sun and sea breeze.

Return to Funchal

After the swim, the boat heads back toward the marina, giving everyone a chance to relax, enjoy a Madeira wine toast, and snap photos on the buoy. The trip wraps up after about 2 hours in total, leaving you with a sense of connection to Madeira’s maritime soul.

What Travelers Say

The glowing reviews speak volumes about what makes this tour special. Travelers consistently mention the knowledge and friendliness of the guides, describing them as attentive, engaging, and full of interesting anecdotes. Multiple reviews highlight the stunning scenery—from cliffs to coastline—and say that the snorkeling stop is a real highlight, especially for those who enjoy a dip in clear waters.

One traveler from Portugal shared, “Sailing between Câmara de Lobos and Cabo Girao was simply stunning. The onboard team was friendly and attentive, and the experience felt authentic and memorable.” A French visitor praised the small, charming boat and the “very nice guide,” emphasizing the intimate nature of the trip.

Even families with young children found the experience enjoyable, noting that the boat was comfortable, and the swimming opportunity was a hit. One review described their trip as “a piece of Madeira’s history and culture, wrapped in a relaxing little adventure.”

Practical Details & Tips

Price: At $59 per person, the cost is quite reasonable for a culturally rich, scenic experience. It’s a good value considering the storytelling, the swim stop, and the personal touch of a small group.

Duration: The tour lasts 2 hours, making it manageable even for those with tight schedules or small children. Check availability for specific starting times, but generally, you’ll find options throughout the day.

Group Size: Limited to 8 participants, providing a feeling of exclusivity and personal attention. Perfect for those who dislike crowded tours.

What to Bring: Pack a hat, swimwear, towel, goggles, and sunscreen—things that will make your experience more comfortable and enjoyable.

Not Suitable For: Those with mobility challenges, prone to seasickness, or low physical stamina. The boat is small and the trip is relatively gentle, but it’s not designed for everyone.

Additional Notes: No littering is allowed, so please be respectful of the environment. The guides speak both English and Portuguese, making the tour accessible to most visitors.

The Sum Up

This Funchal Xavelha boat tour offers a charming, authentic look at Madeira’s maritime traditions. It’s perfect for travelers who want a small-group, storytelling-rich experience that combines scenic beauty with cultural depth. The opportunity to snorkel in clear waters and enjoy a Madeira wine toast makes it a well-rounded outing, especially given its reasonable price.

If your idea of a meaningful trip involves connecting with local history, enjoying stunning coastal views, and having a relaxed, intimate adventure, this tour is likely to hit the mark. It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate a quieter, more personal experience rather than a large cruise with crowds.

While it’s not ideal for those with mobility or seasickness concerns, it’s a standout option for anyone who wants to feel the soul of Madeira from the sea, aboard a boat that’s as full of stories as it is full of color.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour has generally positive reviews from families with young children, it’s best suited for older kids who can handle a boat trip and swimming. The boat isn’t specifically marketed as family-friendly, and considerations like seasickness or mobility should be taken into account.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is about 2 hours, including sailing, snorkeling, and the wine toast. It’s a quick but meaningful outing.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Funchal Marina, a central and easily accessible location. The guide will meet you there for the departure.

What’s included in the price?
For $59 per person, you get the boat trip, storytelling, snorkeling stop, Madeira wine toast, and a chance to photograph on the buoy. A guide is on board to assist and share stories.

Is the boat comfortable and well-maintained?
Yes, reviews describe the boat as colorful, lovingly cared for, and full of character, adding to the authenticity of the experience.

What should I bring?
Bring hat, swimwear, towel, goggles, and sunscreen. The water conditions are typically suitable for swimming, but it’s good to come prepared.

If you’re after a unique, culturally enriching experience that combines scenic views, local history, and a touch of adventure, this Xavelha boat tour could be just what you’re looking for. It’s a refreshing way to see Madeira’s coast and touch its maritime soul—highly recommended for those wanting something memorable, personal, and truly special.

You can check availability for your dates here: