Funchal: KAYAK Rental or Guided tour with snorkeling

If you’re dreaming of a water-based activity that combines exercise, stunning scenery, and eco-conscious travel, the Funchal Kayak Rental or Guided Tour with Snorkeling from Madeira Divepoint is worth considering. While I haven’t personally paddled these waters, I’ve gathered enough details to give you a clear picture of what to expect and whether it fits your vibe.

What really caught my eye is that this activity is described as fully carbon neutral—likely one of the greenest things you can do in Madeira. Plus, the small group sizes mean you’ll get more personalized attention and better quality. On the flip side, it’s a relatively short experience at 1.5 hours, so if you’re craving something more extensive, you might want to look elsewhere. Still, for those who love a quick, scenic break on the water, this could be perfect.

This tour definitely appeals to anyone who enjoys being outside, appreciates environmental responsibility, and isn’t shy about a bit of paddling and snorkeling. It’s suitable for physically capable travelers who can swim and handle light to moderate activity. If that sounds like you, keep reading—I’ll break down everything you need to know.

Key Points

• Eco-Friendly Focus: Fully carbon neutral, making it a responsible way to enjoy Madeira’s coast.
• Small Groups for Quality: Limited to 6 participants, ensuring more personal guidance.
• Flexible Options: Guided tour or rental, with the choice to explore at your own pace.
• Includes Snorkeling Gear: Perfect for adding some underwater fun to your paddling.
• Short and Sweet: About 1.5 hours long, ideal for a quick but memorable outing.
• Beautiful Coastal Views: Expect stunning scenery, especially around Funchal’s coastline and a small deserted bay.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What You Can Expect from the Tour

The experience kicks off at Madeira Divepoint, located inside the Pestana Carlton hotel. This makes for an easy meeting point, especially if you’re staying nearby. After a quick safety briefing, you’ll be fitted with a lifejacket—mandatory by law—and given the option to wear a wetsuit for warmth, especially if the water feels chilly.

You’ll then hop into a kayak, with the guide leading the way on a crystal-clear Atlantic Ocean adventure. If you choose a guided tour, your guide will show you around, pointing out sights and ensuring your safety. If you prefer to rent and paddle at your own pace, you’ll set a maximum distance limit, giving you freedom while keeping you within safe boundaries.

One of the perks is the opportunity to stop for snorkeling or swimming. The tour includes snorkel gear, so you’ll be able to take a brief break from paddling and enjoy the underwater world. The water is likely to be inviting, with plenty of marine life to observe.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: Madeira Divepoint

Your adventure begins at the Dive&Snorkel center tucked inside the Pestana Carlton hotel. This location is convenient, especially if you’re staying nearby or visiting Funchal. The equipment—kayaks and paddleboards—are pre-prepared, which means you might need to swim a little to reach the mooring, where your gear is kept. This short swim is a small trade-off for the ease of setup.

Safety Briefing

Before hitting the water, a brief safety talk ensures you’re comfortable with the equipment and aware of the rules. Wearing your lifejacket is required during the activity, adding a layer of safety that most travelers seem to appreciate.

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Kayaking Along Funchal’s Coastline

Once on the water, the guide will lead you along the coastline, highlighting notable spots and offering insights into the local scenery. The route is designed to stay within a set boundary, so you can relax knowing you’re in safe waters. The views are what make this experience special—think rugged cliffs, lush greenery, and the sparkling blue ocean.

Snorkeling and Swimming Break

If you’re interested, you can hop out for some snorkeling or simply enjoy swimming around. The snorkel gear is provided, allowing you to explore the marine environment around the small bay they have access to. This is a great chance to cool off and get a different perspective of Madeira’s underwater life.

Return to Shore

After about 1.5 hours, it’s time to head back. The return involves a short swim back to the mooring, then paddling to the starting point. The activity ends right back where it began, making logistics straightforward.

What do the Reviews Say?

While the overall rating is a modest 3.8 out of 5 from 10 reviews, some comments highlight the stunning views and enjoyable nature of the activity. Travelers appreciated the small group setting, which felt more personal and allowed for better guidance. One reviewer mentioned, “We loved the way the guide showed us around, and the water was so clear—we could see fish swimming beneath us,” emphasizing how the underwater segments add to the experience.

However, a few reviews hint at minor drawbacks. Since the equipment is prepared beforehand and requires swimming to reach the mooring, some might find this part slightly challenging if they are less confident swimmers. Also, the short duration might leave those craving a longer adventure wanting more, but for many, the quick activity hits the spot.

The price point—$28 per person—is quite reasonable considering the inclusion of equipment and the guided element. It’s a good value for a fun, eco-conscious activity that blends paddling and snorkeling with excellent scenery.

The Practical Details

Duration and Timing

The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours, with start times available throughout the day (availability varies). Make sure to check specific schedules when booking. The activity is flexible, and you can choose guided or rental-only options depending on your confidence level and preferences.

Group Size and Atmosphere

Limited to 6 participants, this smaller size means more personalized attention from your guide. It’s ideal if you prefer a quieter, more intimate experience rather than large tour groups.

What to Bring

• Sun hat and sunscreen
• Swimwear underneath your clothes
• Towel
• Water to stay hydrated

Important Considerations

Participants should be comfortable swimming and able to paddle a kayak. The activity isn’t suitable for non-swimmers, and safety is emphasized with mandatory lifejacket use. You will also need to swim a short distance to reach the equipment, so confidence in water is helpful.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who loves outdoor activities, enjoys being on the water, and appreciates environmental responsibility, you’ll find this tour very appealing. It’s perfect for those looking for a quick, scenic escape from city life, or travelers wanting a gentle introduction to Madeira’s coastline.

While not designed specifically for families with very young children or non-swimmers, capable teens and older kids who can swim and paddle are likely to enjoy it. The focus on small groups and guided support makes it a safe and friendly option for adventurous travelers.

Final Thoughts

This paddle-and-snorkel experience in Funchal offers a solid combination of scenic beauty, gentle exercise, and eco-conscious travel. The small group setting and inclusive gear make it accessible and personal, while the short duration keeps it manageable even for busy days. The highlight is undoubtedly the views—crystal-clear waters and rugged coastlines that make for memorable photos and moments.

If you’re after a relaxing, responsibly-minded activity that gives you a taste of Madeira’s coastal charm, this could be just what you need. It’s a simple adventure, but one that feels special thanks to its stunning environment and small-group intimacy.

FAQ

Is this activity suitable for non-swimmers?
No, participants must be able to swim since the equipment is prepared at a mooring, requiring a short swim to reach it. Confidence in water is important.

Can I do this tour by myself?
Yes, you can rent the kayak and explore at your own pace if you choose the rental-only option. The guide will set a maximum distance for safety.

What should I bring?
Bring a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, and water. It’s also a good idea to wear sunscreen for sun protection.

How long does the activity last?
Approximately 1.5 hours, including briefing, paddling, snorkeling, and returning to shore.

Is the equipment provided?
Yes, all necessary equipment, including kayak, paddle, lifejacket, and snorkeling gear, is included.

Are there any additional costs?
Parking fees (if applicable) and food or drinks are not included. Facilities other than the activity are also not part of the package.

In the end, this activity offers a balanced slice of Madeira’s natural beauty, paired with a responsible approach. Whether you’re after a peaceful paddle, underwater exploration, or simply a scenic outing, it’s a worthwhile choice—especially if you value small groups and eco-friendly travel.

You can check availability for your dates here: