PORTUGAL

The 15 Best Whale and Dolphin Watching Tours in Portugal

33 tours  ·  from $41 a head

Every trip has one free morning too few. These 15 whale and dolphin watching tours in Portugal justify the slot, priced and timed so you can decide in minutes and get back to the fun part.

From Funchal: Ecological Catamaran Dolphin Whale Watching - What happens during the three-hour cruise
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From Funchal: Ecological Catamaran Dolphin Whale Watching

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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Funchal: Dolphin and Whale Watching Catamaran Cruise - Searching for dolphins, whales, and turtles
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Funchal: Dolphin and Whale Watching Catamaran Cruise

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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From Ponta Delgada: Whale and Dolphin Watching Trip - Catamaran or Zodiac: choose the ride that fits you
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From Ponta Delgada: Whale and Dolphin Watching Trip

3.From Ponta Delgada: Whale and Dolphin Watching Trip

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 · 4,109 reviews · 3 hours · from $82

Sail from Ponta Delgada with a marine biologist or nature guide to look for whales, dolphins, turtles, and seabirds. Choose a catamaran or Zodiac boat at booking. The three-hour outing includes a safety briefing, wildlife commentary, and a second tour if no animals are seen. Spring is best for migrating baleen whales, while dolphins and sperm whales appear year-round.

“it was a dream come true, we saw a group of 4 sperm whales and couple others and the rare thing we also saw striped dolphins”

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Funchal Bay: Dolphin & Whale Watch Luxury Catamaran Cruise - The first 45 minutes: open-water wildlife watching
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Funchal Bay: Dolphin & Whale Watch Luxury Catamaran Cruise

4.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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All Inclusive Whale and Dolphin Watching Luxury Tour - The first 45 minutes: searching the Atlantic
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All Inclusive Whale and Dolphin Watching Luxury Tour

5.All Inclusive Whale and Dolphin Watching Luxury Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.9 · 2,573 reviews · 3 hours · from $93

From Funchal’s new marina, you’ll sail on a spacious catamaran with a small group, guided in English, Portuguese, or Spanish. Look for dolphins, whales, and turtles, then swim below Cabo Girão, Madeira’s 586-meter sea cliff. Liv and David are among the crew members praised for warm service, with snacks, towels, snorkels, and drinks included.

“The crew were incredibly considerate and helpful. The small group size made the experience feel personal and well-managed, with clear environmental awareness throughout. It was a genuinely customer-focused experience from start to finish. Thank you so much for doing your job so well.”

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Madeira Dolphin and Whale Watching on a Ecological Catamaran - Quiet viewing with hybrid-electric engines
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Madeira Dolphin and Whale Watching on a Ecological Catamaran

6.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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Funchal: Dolphin and Whale Watching by Luxury Catamaran - Watching dolphins and whales in Madeira’s waters
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Funchal: Dolphin and Whale Watching by Luxury Catamaran

7.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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VipDolphins Luxury Whale Watching - Leaving Praça do Povo in Funchal
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VipDolphins Luxury Whale Watching

8.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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Funchal: Dolphin and Whale Watching Sunset Sailing Tour - Searching for dolphins and whales up to three miles offshore
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Funchal: Dolphin and Whale Watching Sunset Sailing Tour

9.Dolphin and Whale Watching Sunset Sailing Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 · 1,642 reviews · from $63

Join Gaviao Madeira in Funchal for a three-hour sunset sailing trip with up to 20 people. Guides such as Bruno, Roberto, Marco, and José search for dolphins, whales, and sea turtles, then stop near Cabo Girão for swimming and snorkeling. Drinks, equipment, coastal views, and a return to the marina are included.

“Worth it even if you don't see the creatures :) With the right weather the trip is exciting, and the views simply stunning. Our guide, Bruno, is funny and knowledgabe so made you feel at ease and safe. We stopped for a swim in the ocean (amazing) and there was an open bar with local specialties. Couldn't recommend more :D”

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From Funchal: Madeira Dolphin and Whale Watching Tour - Why the catamaran setup improves the ride
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From Funchal: Madeira Dolphin and Whale Watching Tour

10.Madeira Dolphin and Whale Watching Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.2 · 1,444 reviews · 3 hours · from $47

Cruise Madeira’s south coast from Funchal on a spacious catamaran, looking for dolphins, whales, and turtles with live commentary in English or Portuguese. In summer, stop beneath Cabo Girão for swimming and snorkeling. The boat has shade, sunbathing nets, toilets, and a bar. If no dolphins or whales appear, you receive a free second trip.

“I’ve done this trip twice. The first time I went, unfortunately the weather wasn’t great and we didn’t see any animals. But VMT gave me a second trip for free and this time we were so lucky! We’ve got to see dolphins twice and we saw a big group of pilot whales. It was absolutely amazing, everybody was speechless. VMT is also very respective of nature and the rules around watching these animals. Big plus from me too!”

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Funchal: Dolphin and Whale Watching Sailing Trip - Searching the Atlantic for dolphins and whales
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Funchal: Dolphin and Whale Watching Sailing Trip

11.Dolphin and Whale Watching Sailing Trip

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 · 1,325 reviews · 3 hours · from $47

Sail from Funchal Marina with Gaviao Madeira for three hours of wildlife watching near Cabo Girão. Guides including Bruno, Joseph, and other crew members share facts about dolphins and whales, then stop for swimming and snorkeling. Small groups, complimentary drinks, and a relaxed yacht make this a pleasant alternative to a crowded catamaran.

“We didn't see any whales or dolphins, but felt we were taken good care of as the guide was friendly and helpful, so we had a good time. It was fun swimming in the ocean with this spectacular scenery.”

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From Funchal: Whale and Dolphin Watching - A fast boat with only 18 seats
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From Funchal: Whale and Dolphin Watching

12.Whale and Dolphin Watching

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 · 1,313 reviews · 2.5 hours · from $56

From Funchal, join a marine biologist and captain on a 2.5-hour search for wild whales and dolphins. Small semi-rigid boats carry up to 18 people, while land-based spotters help locate animals. Expect a fast, wet ride, useful wildlife facts, and possible swimming time when conditions allow.

“We can fully recommend the tour. We’ve seen the dolphins and had a real fun when sailing by speedboat. Staff members where really nice and helpful, the captain was fun and told us much about the species that we saw.”

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From Funchal: Whales and Dolphin Adventure Tour - Leaving Funchal Marina for open water
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From Funchal: Whales and Dolphin Adventure Tour

13.Whales and Dolphin Adventure Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 · 1,235 reviews · 2 hours · from $58

Set out from Funchal’s new marina on a two-hour RIB speedboat trip with a small group of up to 18 people. Guides such as marine biologist Camila explain the animals and support research. You may see dolphins, pilot whales, sperm whales, turtles, or flying fish. Swimming is possible only with suitable dolphins and safe sea conditions.

“LOVED that I was on a smaller boat. I could see the entire ocean on all sides. No need to rush to the other side of the boat to be able to see. Our guide Camila was very knowledgeable and took AMAZING photos! You can purchase the photos at the end if you want but can of course take as many as you wish with your own phone. We saw a large pod of bottle nose dolphins with two babies and a group of pilot dolphins. Bring a rain coat! Because of the small size of the boat and crashing through the waves, I would have been soaked all way…”

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Whale and Dolphin Watching in Calheta, Madeira Island - How the land spotter helps find wildlife
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Whale and Dolphin Watching in Calheta, Madeira Island

14.Whale and Dolphin Watching in Calheta, Madeira Island

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 1,228 reviews · 2 hours (approx.) · from $72

You’ll search Madeira’s Atlantic waters from a small RIB boat with H2O Madeira’s land-based spotter and onboard crew. Expect about two hours, live marine-life commentary, coastal views, and a maximum of 12 people. Dolphins are common, while whale sightings depend on weather, season, and luck.

“Experienced Staff, knowledgable with the marine species and the conservation of the ocean, friendly and professional.”

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Whale and Dolphin Watching Tour in Madeira - What the 2.5-hour cruise feels like
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Whale and Dolphin Watching Tour in Madeira

15.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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New in Whale and Dolphin Watching Tours in Portugal

Whale and Dolphin Watching Tour at Terceira IslandFrom $7139 reviews
★ 5.0Watching whales and dolphins on Terceira IslandFrom $78150 reviews
★ 5.0Observation of Dolphins and Whales with Marine Biologist in ArrábidaFrom $66224 reviews
★ 5.0Arrábida Dolphin and Whale Watching tour with biologistFrom $66248 reviews
★ 4.8Dolphin and Whales Watching with Biologist GuideFrom $64197 reviews
★ 4.9Arrábida Dolphin and Whale Watching with BiologistFrom $64310 reviews
★ 4.8Whale and Dolphin Watching in a Zodiac BoatFrom $82230 reviews
★ 4.6Half-Day Dolphin and Whale Watching TourFrom $70219 reviews
★ 4.7Whale & Dolphin Watching | Best Wildlife TourFrom $8255 reviews
★ 5.0Dolphin – Whale – Turtle – Bird WatchingFrom $60350 reviews
★ 4.8Pico Island: Azores Whale & Dolphin Watching on Zodiac BoatFrom $53408 reviews
★ 4.5Madeira Dolphin & Whale Watching TourFrom $58461 reviews

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Dolphin Watching Cruises131Swim with Dolphins30Whale and Dolphin Watching Tours109Sunset Dolphin Cruises54Private Dolphin Watching Charters39Kayak Dolphin Tours22
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Where to see dolphins

Pick a coast, a boat or a swim.

From the deck

Dolphin CruisesWhales and DolphinsSunset SailingsCatamaransRIBs and Speedboats

In the water

Wild SwimsSnorkel TripsDolphin HouseWild EncountersKayak Trips

Smaller boats

Private ChartersSmall GroupsLuxury HullsUnder SailWith a Biologist

Other ways

Dolphins and ManateesEco TripsAquariumsTrips with LunchHalf-Day Trips