Our 7 Best Catamaran Dolphin Cruises in Portugal

1.Ecological Catamaran Dolphin Whale Watching

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 8,204 reviews · 3 hours · from $41Our pick

Cruise from Funchal Marina aboard Magic Dolphin, Madeira’s purpose-built hybrid-electric whale-watching catamaran. Land-based spotters help locate dolphins and whales, while certified English and Portuguese guides explain the wildlife. Enjoy two decks, large viewing nets, toilets, shaded seating, and coastal views toward Cabo Girão and Câmara de Lobos.

“I was with a group of 8 women and we really enjoyed the trip. The boat was very clean the staff was very good and knowledgeable. We saw sperm whales and other ones and the captain did a great shop explaining and showing us. The sea was a little bit rough but the had water on board. The staff was so helpful. Very good.”

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2.Dolphin and Whale Watching Catamaran Cruise

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 5,697 reviews · 3 hours · from $41

Set out from Funchal Marina on a three-hour Seaborn catamaran cruise with an English or Portuguese-speaking crew. Search for dolphins, whales, turtles, and flying fish, then stop beneath Cabo Girão for a seasonal swim. The spacious boat has shaded seating, sun decks, front nets, and a bar. Sightings are never guaranteed.

“A truly great time had. A comfortable amount of people onboard the Catamaran. Seats under the canopy, seats in the sun, two large areas to sit or lay on the netting area, large areas to sit with your legs hanging over the edge to really enjoy the ocean. We felt lucky to have seen a few whales, which made our trip so worth while. We stopped & were all permitted to climb down the ladder, jump/dive into the sea at a specific location - below cliffs on the opposite side of Funchal. Drinks & snacks were available. Crew were all very friendly, knowledgeable & helpful. A wonder family friendly experience.”

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3.Funchal Bay: Dolphin & Whale Watch Luxury Catamaran Cruise

★★★★★★★★★★4.2 · 2,684 reviews · 3 hours · from $47

Board the Atlantic Pearl at Funchal’s New Marina for a three-hour cruise with Portuguese and English-speaking guides. Watch for dolphins and whales, then stop beneath the 580-meter Cabo Girão cliffs for swimming and snorkeling. Expect a smaller boat, covered seating, outdoor hammocks, onboard toilets, music, and drinks for purchase.

“Both staff were absolutely quality, good laugh and a great tour! Saw pilot whales and dolphins at first spot and had a great swim in the beautiful waters! All the best with the new baby captain!”

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4.Madeira Dolphin and Whale Watching on a Ecological Catamaran

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 1,957 reviews · 3 hours (approx.) · from $42

Cruise from Funchal aboard Magic Dolphin’s 2022 hybrid-electric catamaran for about three hours. Shore-based spotters guide the captain toward dolphins and whales, while certified guides explain Madeira’s sea life. Expect coastal views of Cabo Girão, Câmara de Lobos, Reid’s Hotel, and Madeira Airport. Bring layers and waterproof clothing for wind and spray.

“Close to the cruise port or 10e in a taxi. Whilst the sea journey was very choppy, to see Bottle nose Dolphins and Pilot whales was an amazing experience. I highly recommend this company, great communication and a fabulous tour. Highly recommended.”

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5.Dolphin and Whale Watching by Luxury Catamaran

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 1,709 reviews · 3 hours · from $47

Join Magic Dolphin Atividades Maritimas for a three-hour catamaran trip from Funchal Marina. Watch for dolphins, pilot whales, turtles, seabirds, and other marine life while guides explain Madeira’s ocean ecology. You’ll also sail beneath Cabo Girão, with time to swim on most tours. Indoor seating, sun beds, restrooms, and a welcome drink are included.

“Amazing staff! I loved the boat trip and we also saw the dolphins. Just amazing day to celebrate my birthday! I definitely recommend it!❤️”

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6.Dolphins & Caves – Catamaran

★★★★★★★★★★4.9 · 1,512 reviews · 2.5 hours · from $58Top rated

Set out from Marina de Lagos on a 2.5-hour catamaran trip with a marine biologist, looking for dolphins and other cetaceans. Guides such as Diogo, Nadia, Nadja, and Larissa share facts in Portuguese and English. Afterward, stop in a quiet bay for swimming, jumping, and the boat’s inflatable slide, with fruit and a cookie included.

“It was an unforgettable experience! We were taken out in a fantastic, comfortable boat and the trip was explained by our guide. When we reached a point further out, we immediately began to see dolphins and were treated to about 40 mins of watching many of the beautiful created swimming and leaping about, with the captain gently turning the boat so everyone could get a better view. We were told all about the creatures and then we sailed back towards Lagos. When we dropped anchor, we had a snack and the chance for fun swimming; then a chance bonus; another vessel needed rescue so we headed back along the coast…”

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7.Dolphin and Whale Watching Catamaran Cruise from Funchal

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 645 reviews · 3 hours (approx.) · from $48

Join VMT Madeira Catamaran for a 3-hour cruise from Funchal Marina along Madeira’s south coast. The crew searches for dolphins, whales, and other marine life, then may stop for a swim below 580-meter Cabo Girão when conditions allow. A bar, toilets, and a free repeat trip if no cetaceans appear add practical value.

“Amazing boat trip on a lovely Catamaran. The crew were very friendly and informative and we saw a lot of Dolphins! Amazing experience which I would highly recommend.”

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