Funchal: Guarantee Wild Dolphin&Whale Watching by RIB

If you’re dreaming of spotting dolphins and whales in their natural environment around Madeira, this small-group RIB tour might catch your eye. While we haven’t been on this particular trip ourselves, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions paint a pretty compelling picture. It’s an experience that combines adventure, nature, and some truly beautiful scenery.

What stands out about this tour? First, the intimate experience with marine wildlife on a small boat—no crowded catamarans here. Second, the high success rate for sightings—an impressive 99% according to the info, which makes it feel pretty reliable. But, like any wildlife tour, there’s an element of luck involved, and it’s worth knowing that no sighting, no matter how likely, isn’t a guarantee.

A potential consideration? If you’re eager to swim with dolphins, keep in mind that this is an add-on, and the water swim is subject to animal behavior and legal restrictions. It’s a quick, 1-2 minute experience per person, so don’t expect a lengthy aquatic encounter. This tour is best suited for those who enjoy a mix of excitement and patience, and who appreciate being close to nature without overly large crowds.

This trip seems like a good fit for travelers who value a relaxed, personal experience out at sea, with a decent chance of seeing dolphins or whales, and who don’t mind a bit of wind and spray. It’s especially appealing if you’re traveling in a small group, prefer a more flexible approach, and are interested in the added option of snorkeling with dolphins.

Key Points

• Small-group experience enhances wildlife sightings and comfort
• High success rate of cetacean sightings increases your chances of a memorable encounter
• Optional snorkeling offers a chance to get closer to dolphins in their natural habitat
• Flexible booking options include private tours for groups or families
• Weather considerations are important—bring windproof gear and sunscreen
• Free re-sighting offer if no animals are seen on the first trip, which adds reassurance

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The core appeal of this tour, offered by Madeira Divepoint – Xpoint Madeira, is the chance to see dolphins, whales, and even turtles in their natural environment. It’s a 2.5-hour adventure that leaves from Funchal’s harbor, taking you along the beautiful south coast of Madeira to spot marine life. The tour includes safety equipment and an informative briefing—crucial for a smooth, enjoyable outing.

The Itinerary and What to Expect

The trip kicks off at one of two possible meeting points, depending on your booking choice. After a brief safety briefing and donning life jackets, you’ll head out to sea on a speedy RIB boat, which promises a fun and fast-paced ride. The emphasis here is on small-group interaction, meaning you’re close to the water and your guide, which enhances the chances of seeing wildlife and makes the trip more personal.

The boat cruise takes you along Madeira’s coastline—an area known for its scenic beauty. As you slice through the waves, your crew keeps a keen eye out for cetaceans, with an impressive 99% sighting success rate. If the weather or sea conditions are good, you might even spot pilot whales, Atlantic spotted dolphins, or common dolphins.

Wildlife Watching and the Possibility of Snorkeling

Most trips last at least 2.5 hours, and during that time, your guides will do their best to find dolphins, whales, or even turtles. The reviews echo this high success rate—many travelers have reported seeing dolphins, with some even mentioning pilot whales. One traveler noted, “We saw pilot whales but nothing else this time,” which reminds us that wildlife can be unpredictable, but the effort is worthwhile.

For those who booked the “Swim with Dolphins” add-on, if dolphins are behaving in a certain way and local laws allow, you might get a chance to don a mask and snorkel and paddle alongside these friendly creatures for about a minute or two. This quick encounter is designed to be respectful of the animals, with strict legal restrictions limiting which species you can swim with.

The Scenic Stops and Extra Highlights

A notable part of the tour is the scenic drive past the Cabo Girao Cliff, one of the world’s highest sea cliffs, offering breathtaking views and photo opportunities. It’s a nice way to combine wildlife watching with sightseeing—making this a well-rounded experience.

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The Return and Re-sighting Guarantee

After approximately 2.5 hours on the water, your boat will head back to Funchal. If, by chance, no marine animals are spotted during your trip, the company offers a complimentary re-sighting trip within a year—a reassuring policy that underscores their confidence in wildlife success.

Pricing and Value

At $59 per person, this tour offers a solid value, especially considering the small-group setup and the promise of wildlife sightings. The optional snorkeling upgrade costs $20 per person, charged only if you actually get to swim with dolphins—so you’re not paying extra unless it happens, which is fair.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is well-suited for those who value personalized, smaller-scale adventures and are keen on a good shot at seeing dolphins and whales. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy a quick, exciting trip out at sea with beautiful coastal views, and who are prepared for the weather—likely wind and sun protection are necessary. It’s also flexible enough for private groups, making it a great option for families or friends traveling together.

Practical Details and Tips

• Duration: 2.5 hours, with specific start times based on availability.
• Group size: Small groups, making the experience more intimate.
• Pricing: $59 per person, with snorkeling as an optional extra.
• Weather prep: Bring windbreaker, sun hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen—sea breezes can get chilly, especially in winter.
• Booking: Easy to reserve with a flexible “reserve now & pay later” option.
• Cancellation: Free if canceled 24 hours in advance.

Authentic Traveler Reviews

From recent reviews, it’s clear that most travelers had a great time. One said, “The speedboat was awesome and such a fun way to see the island,” mentioning the chance to see pilot whales. They appreciated the friendly guides and great communication, which made the trip more enjoyable. Another traveler called it “a sensational experience,” praising the top-notch service and personable staff. These comments reinforce the idea that this tour is not just about wildlife but also about a well-organized, fun outing.

Summary

This dolphin and whale watching tour from Funchal offers a small-group, high-success experience at a reasonable price. It combines the thrill of being out on the open ocean with the chance to observe majestic marine animals in their natural habitat. The option to snorkel with dolphins adds a magical touch, though it’s subject to animal behavior and legal considerations.

If you’re someone who appreciates personalized tours, scenic coastal views, and the excitement of marine wildlife, this experience is worth considering. The flexible re-sighting guarantee provides some peace of mind, making it a relatively safe bet for wildlife lovers.

For travelers craving a fun, active day out at sea, with beautiful scenery and the possibility of spotting dolphins or whales, this trip hits many marks. Just remember to come prepared for the weather and to have an open mind—wildlife encounters can always surprise you.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
Your ticket covers the boat trip, all necessary safety equipment, and any applicable fees, taxes, and fuel surcharges. The extras, like snorkeling, are paid separately if you choose.

How long does the trip last?
The standard trip lasts about 2.5 hours, which is enough time to enjoy the ride and wildlife spotting without feeling rushed.

Can I book a private tour?
Yes, private groups are available, and you can bring up to 18 passengers for a more exclusive experience.

What should I bring?
Bring a windbreaker, sun hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen—being out at sea means you’ll need protection from wind and sun.

What if we don’t see any animals?
If no cetaceans are spotted during your trip, you are eligible for a free re-sighting trip within a year, subject to availability.

Is snorkeling with dolphins guaranteed?
No, it depends on animal behavior and legal restrictions. If the conditions are right, you might get a brief swim, but it’s not guaranteed.

What are the best times to go?
While specific times aren’t mentioned, good weather and sea conditions are ideal. Check the schedule and weather forecast before booking.

This tour offers a balanced mix of adventure, nature, and scenic beauty—perfect for those who want a memorable marine day out without the crowds.

You can check availability for your dates here: