The 6 Funchal Dolphin Tours People Actually Book

1.Madeira Dolphin and Whale Watching on a Ecological Catamaran

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

Cruise Madeira’s southern coast aboard Magic Dolphin’s 2022 hybrid-electric catamaran. Shore spotters guide the captain to dolphins and whales, while certified guides explain the species and ocean ecology. Allow 2.5 to 3 hours, bring warm layers and waterproof clothing, and expect possible spray.

“Got to see dolphins, sperm and pilot whales. Also opportunity to learn more about them and the area. Plenty of room on board with helpful staff making sure you got to see the wildlife.”

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2.Whale and Dolphin Watching Tour in Madeira

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

Set out from Calheta Marina aboard a comfortable yacht for about 2.5 hours of coastal views, wildlife spotting, and a swim stop. Captains such as Emanuel and crew members including Thiago explain Madeira’s sea life, provide snorkel gear and towels, and may share photos afterward. Sunset departures include swimming and sparkling wine, but no whale watching.

“Let me start with the positive, friendly staff and crew on board that’s trying to make a living in these difficult times. But the whole concept from start to end is a hoax. Viator is just a greedy provider exploiting small tour companies. We booked the whale tour🤣🤣and couldn’t get information about time because.... ohhh the weather? Wells the weather happened to be the same all day at sea, from early morning to dusk. A gentle breeze or even less than that... 2-3 second meter wind. Anyway was the morning 10 am trip not available because of weather conditions 🤔 No the truth is that it was most likely sold…”

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3.Private Dolphin and Whale Watching Tour in Madeira

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

From Calheta Marina, your private group of up to five cruises Madeira’s coast aboard a motor yacht, watching for dolphins and whales, swimming, and snorkeling. Emanuel, Luca, Chiara, and other crew members provide wildlife details, towels, drinks, photos, and a sunset option without whale watching.

“We had a great time on board. The whole crew took perfect care of us. Thank you very much for this experience.”

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4.Dolphin – Whale – Turtle – Bird Watching

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

Join Magic Dolphin from Funchal for a two-hour Atlantic safari aboard a 500-horsepower RIB limited to 18 people. Two guides, often including marine biologists such as Clara or Natasha, explain the wildlife, Madeira’s coast, and the fishing village of Câmara de Lobos.

“Very good tour. Smaller boat than the large catamaran tours so it's not crowded with lots of other people. Saw plenty of dolphins, whales and a turtle. Tour operators were very good, and would definitely recommend.”

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5.Madeira : Whales and Dolphins wooden boat excursion

★★★★★★★★★★4.1 · 247 reviews · 3 hours · from $41Best value

Set out from Funchal’s Pier 8 on Bonita da Madeira’s wooden boat for three hours of whale and dolphin watching. English-speaking guides, including Miguel, Oriana, and Ana, share local information, serve Madeira wine, and may stop near Cabo Girão for a swim.

“Spotted pilot whale on several occasions and was a great view indeed and quite peaceful and calm. An amazing experience.”

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6.Responsible Whales and/or Dolphins Watching Tour

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 237 reviews · 2 hours (approx.) · from $59

Set out from Funchal Marina on Blue Safari, a fast, small-group boat limited to 18 people. Marine biologists such as Fernanda or Camila explain Madeira’s whales and dolphins while the skipper searches the Atlantic. Expect about two hours at sea, strong wind, and a respectful wildlife approach.

“Muito boa e divertida a viagem. Com boas dicas e explicações. Pretendo voltar novamente e tentar outra experiência”

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