Living Sea Boat Trip in Madeira from Funchal

If you’re considering a boat trip along Madeira’s southwest coast, this Living Sea cruise from Funchal could turn out to be a highlight of your trip. We haven’t been on it ourselves, but after digging into the details and reviews, we can tell you it’s a well-loved experience that offers a refreshing mix of scenic beauty, wildlife spotting, and good food—all in a relatively short, manageable four hours.

What really draws people in is the chance to enjoy quiet, uncrowded spots like Cais da Lapa for swimming, and the possibility of seeing dolphins, whales, or even sea turtles during your cruise. Plus, the homemade lunch paired with local wine feels like a genuine touch that elevates the whole experience. On the downside, the trip involves about an hour of boat time from shore to the whale-watching area, so seasickness pills might be worth considering if you’re prone to motion sickness. This trip suits travelers who love relaxed outings, appreciate good scenery, and want a taste of the ocean without a long or complicated tour.

Key Points

• Scenic coastlines and iconic sights like Cabo Girão make this trip visually appealing
• The small group size (up to 52 guests) ensures good space and attentive service
• Wildlife sightings (dolphins, whales, turtles) add an exciting element
• The homemade lunch and regional wine provide a true local dining experience
• Duration is just around four hours, making it a manageable outing
• Possible seasickness due to the hour-long boat ride from Funchal

A Deep Dive into the Living Sea Boat Trip

What to Expect from the Itinerary

The day kicks off bright and early at 9:30 am, with pickup options available, which is a real convenience if you prefer not to worry about logistics. From the port, you’ll hop aboard the Living Sea, a vessel designed for comfort and a good view. The boat itself is not overly large—maxing out at 52 travelers—which means you’ll avoid the crowded feel that some larger tours have.

The first stop is often Cabo Girão, a dramatic cliff that towers 580 meters above the sea. It’s one of Madeira’s most recognizable landmarks, and from the boat, you’ll get a fantastic perspective of this natural wonder. The cruise allows you to relax on deck, feel the breeze, and enjoy the sweeping views of lush, green coastlines—something that photographs just can’t fully capture.

Next up is Cais da Lapa, a secluded spot where boats from no other companies stop. Here, the crew will set up for a swim in the clear, inviting waters. This is a real highlight—imagine cooling off in a peaceful cove, with nobody else around, only the sounds of the sea and perhaps some curious fish swimming nearby. It’s a perfect break from sightseeing and a good chance to unwind.

The Food and Drink

One of the most appreciated aspects of this trip is the homemade lunch. The crew prepares traditional dishes on board, making it feel more like sharing a meal with friends than a typical tour buffet. You’ll wash this down with wine from the Alentejo region, a nice regional touch that pairs well with the laid-back vibe. The review from Caroline sums it up well: “Lunch was homemade and really good.” It’s simple but satisfying, and it turns the cruise into a little floating feast.

Wildlife and Scenic Encounters

While the main focus is the coastline, there’s a good chance you’ll see some marine life. The review highlights sightings of pilot whales, turtles, and flying fish. Dolphins are a common sight, and the chance to see these playful creatures adds a special element to the day. The ocean around Madeira is rich in life, and this trip offers a good chance to witness it in its natural habitat.

The Return Journey

After enjoying your swim, lunch, and perhaps some wine, the boat will head back down the coast. The ride back is an opportunity to relax, take in the scenery, and maybe spot some more wildlife. If you’re lucky, you might see dolphins or turtles alongside the boat, which can make for some memorable photos.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The small group size ensures an intimate experience, so you’re not just another face in a crowd. The attention to detail, from homemade dishes to regional wines, helps create a genuine, local atmosphere. The opportunity to swim in untouched spots like Cais da Lapa, away from the usual tour crowds, is a real plus for those looking for tranquility and authentic encounters with the sea.

The length of four hours is just right—long enough to see a variety of sights and enjoy good food, but not so long that it becomes exhausting. Plus, the early start means you can fit this into a busy Funchal itinerary without it feeling like a whole day commitment.

Considering the Price

At around $63.72 per person, this experience offers good value. You’re not just paying for the boat ride; you’re getting the opportunity to swim, see wildlife, enjoy regional wine and homemade dishes, and soak in some of Madeira’s most spectacular coastlines. It’s a well-rounded package that balances scenery, relaxation, and a touch of adventure.

Potential Drawbacks

The main consideration is the boat ride itself—about an hour each way from Funchal to the whale-watching zone. If you’re prone to seasickness, it’s wise to take precautions. The trip relies heavily on good weather; if seas are rough or conditions poor, the tour might be canceled or rescheduled. The full refund policy provides some peace of mind if weather turns unfavorable.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This boat trip is best suited for travelers who enjoy laid-back outings with scenic views, good food, and wildlife. It’s ideal for those who appreciate smaller groups and authentic local touches like homemade meals and regional wine. If you’re looking for a relaxing day at sea with chances for swimming and wildlife sightings, this tour will likely tick all your boxes.

It’s also a good choice for those who want a balanced mix of sightseeing, leisure, and food, without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. However, if you’re seeking a more energetic or adventure-heavy trip, you might want to look at other options.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This Living Sea boat trip offers a tranquil, scenic escape that’s perfect for those who want to experience Madeira from the water in a comfortable, intimate setting. The chance to see dolphins, turtles, and whales, combined with a homemade lunch and regional wine, makes it feel authentic and rewarding.

While the boat ride from Funchal requires some patience, most travelers find the experience well worth it. The small group size, relaxed pace, and focus on genuine encounters set this tour apart from more commercialized options. It’s especially suited for travelers craving a peaceful, scenic day with the added bonus of wildlife and local flavors.

In short, if you’re after a relaxing, scenic, and wildlife-filled day on the water, this tour will serve you well. Just keep seasickness in mind, and you’ll likely come away with wonderful memories of Madeira’s stunning coast.

FAQs

How long is the boat trip?
The entire experience lasts about four hours, including time for swimming, lunch, and enjoying the scenery.

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, pickup options are available, which makes getting to the port convenient.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and perhaps seasickness pills if you’re prone to motion sickness. Comfortable clothing is recommended.

Will I see wildlife?
There’s a good chance to see dolphins, whales (like pilot whales), and sea turtles, as noted in reviews. Wildlife sightings are common but not guaranteed.

Is the lunch included?
Yes, the crew prepares a homemade lunch onboard, paired with regional wine, adding a nice personal touch.

What is the group size?
The tour accommodates up to 52 guests, ensuring you’ll have space and attentive service.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour relies on good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can children participate?
Most travelers can participate, but specific details aren’t provided. The trip’s relaxed pace makes it suitable for most ages, but always check with the provider if you have concerns about young children or specific needs.

This boat trip in Madeira strikes a lovely balance between scenic relaxation, wildlife encounters, and regional flavors. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful day at sea or a chance to spot marine life, it’s worth considering as part of your Madeira itinerary.