5 Funchal Dolphin Watching Tours Worth Flying For

1.Madeira Dolphin and Whale Watching on a Ecological Catamaran

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

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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2.VipDolphins Luxury Whale Watching

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 1,709 reviews · 3 hours (approx.) · from $95Top rated

Sail from Funchal Marina on a modern catamaran limited to 17 passengers. The crew, sometimes including Sheila, Liv, Maggie, Francisco, or Nico, serves drinks, local snacks, and desserts while you search for dolphins and whales. Afterward, swim and snorkel below Cabo Girao with towels and equipment provided.

“This was an amazing trip. The crew were super friendly and helpful - we had Maggie, Francisco and Nico our captain. They couldn't do enough for the guests and when we saw whales and dolphins they gave us loads of interesting information about the species, their habits, and their habitat. A small boat with a small number of guests was perfect to see things and not feel left out. Would highly recommend!!!”

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3.Whale and Dolphin Watching Tour in Madeira

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 1,192 reviews · 2 hours 30 minutes (approx.) · from $83

Sail from Calheta Marina aboard Miranda for about 2.5 hours with a small group, watching for dolphins and whales along Madeira’s southwest coast. Swim and snorkel in a sheltered bay, enjoy drinks, towels, and sea views, and hear local insight from crew such as Emanuel, Beatriz, Bruno, or Thiago. Sunset departures include swimming and sparkling wine, but not whale watching.

“It was great. We didn’t see any dolphins/whales though, but honestly it didn’t matter. The crew were both lovely, attentive etc, and was very comfortable. Very relaxing too, drove around for 2.5 hours, had a couple of drinks, saw Madeira from a different perspective and got to swim —Surprisingly warm!! Would definitely book again, thank you so much!!”

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4.Private Dolphin and Whale Watching Tour in Madeira

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 539 reviews · 2 hours 30 minutes (approx.)

Set out from Calheta Marina on a private 2.5-hour yacht for up to five people. The crew searches for dolphins and whales, shares island and marine-life facts, and stops for snorkeling when conditions allow. Towels, drinks, sparkling wine, a shower, toilet, and cabin are included. Sunset departures focus on swimming and scenery, not whale watching.

“Amazing experience! Everyone that works at On Tales is so helpful and friendly. Fantastic communication. They arranged transport, provided towels and drinks on the day. The crew were great and gave us lots of information about Maderia and the wildlife that we saw. We also enjoyed the snorkelling 🤿 Was so nice to receive the photos the next day that the crew had taken for us.”

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5.Dolphin – Whale – Turtle – Bird Watching

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 350 reviews · 2 hours (approx.) · from $60

Join Magic Dolphin in Funchal for a two-hour sea safari aboard a 500-horsepower RIB limited to 18 people. Two guides, including marine biologists such as Clara and Natasha, search for dolphins, whales, turtles, and seabirds before returning along Madeira’s coast and Câmara de Lobos. Wildlife sightings are promised, with a repeat-trip policy if nothing appears.

“My teen daughter and I absolutely loved this! One of the best experiences we’ve ever had. Our guides were kind and very knowledgeable. We spotted Bottlenose dolphins, Common dolphins, and Pilot whales. The speedboat was so much fun!”

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