Dolphin and Whale Watching Eco Catamaran Cruise Madeira

Dolphin and whale watching off Funchal

Madeira sits in deep Atlantic water close to shore, which is why a dolphin and whale watching tour from Funchal has such a good record of encounters. Common, bottlenose and spotted dolphins live here through the year, and larger species such as short-finned pilot whales, sperm whales and Bryde's whales pass through at different seasons. Spotters on land scan the sea and guide the boat, so less time is spent searching and more time watching.

The cruise lasts about three hours and is a shared trip. The crew keeps a respectful distance and lets the animals decide how close to come. Wildlife is wild and no one can promise a sighting, but encounters are frequent, and your guide explains the dolphins, turtles and seabirds you may see. That makes it an easy answer if you are asking whether a whale watching cruise in Madeira is worth it.

The eco catamaran and life on board

The boat is a purpose-built catamaran with hybrid-electric engines. When animals appear, the electric drive takes over so the cruise carries on almost silently and without exhaust, which is kinder to the wildlife and far more pleasant for you. Every guest can use the whole vessel: the upper deck with wide views, the large net area close to the water, and comfortable indoor and outdoor seating.

Toilets are on board, the catamaran is stable at sea and the crew is certified, with an English-speaking guide to explain what you see. Food and drinks are not included in your booking, although a selection is on sale on board, and snorkelling equipment is not provided. Bring a windbreaker, because it can be breezy offshore, and sun protection for the open decks.

Cabo Girão and the south coast on the way back

On the return leg the catamaran follows the coast past some of the best-known sights of Madeira's south side. Cabo Girão is one of the highest sea cliffs in Europe, and from the water its scale is far clearer than from the viewpoint above. Close by is the bay of Câmara de Lobos, a traditional fishing village where the wooden boats are painted in bright colours.

You also sail past the terraced hillsides and seafront hotels of Funchal, so the trip works as a scenic coastal cruise as well as a wildlife tour. In warm months the crew may offer a swim stop, depending on the weather and sea conditions, so pack swimwear and a towel just in case.

Funchal marina, times and how to get there

The cruise departs from the marina in Funchal, and the exact meeting point is confirmed in your booking voucher. Please arrive about 30 minutes before departure, because the boat leaves on time out of respect for all guests. There are morning and afternoon departures, and the booking panel shows the times open on your date.

Hotel pickup and transport to the marina are not included, but the marina is on the seafront and easy to reach by taxi from most Funchal hotels. Weather decides everything at sea: if conditions are unsafe the trip is cancelled and we contact you with your options.