5 Funchal Whale Watching Tours Worth the Early Start

1.Madeira Dolphin and Whale Watching on a Ecological Catamaran

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

Join Magic Dolphin in Funchal for a 2.5 to 3-hour cruise aboard a 2022 eco-friendly catamaran. Land-based spotters help locate dolphins and whales, while certified guides explain the animals and Madeira’s coast. Look for pilot whales, bottlenose dolphins, sperm whales, and rough-toothed dolphins.

“Well organised trip. We were on a cruise ship and walked to where the Magic Dolphin kiosk and boat are. All staff were very professional, particularly the staff on board. We saw pilot whales and common seals. Take a waterproof, as you may get very wet from sea spray on the return journey. You can purchase snacks and drinks on board although we didn’t take this up.”

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2.VipDolphins Luxury Whale Watching

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

Sail from Funchal Marina aboard a modern catamaran limited to 17 people. The crew, including Sheila, Liv, Maggie, Francisco, and others, serves drinks and local snacks while helping you spot whales and dolphins. You’ll also stop to swim and snorkel below Cabo Girao.

“We loved our boat trip! The crew was very friendly and made the entire experience amazing. The boat was not overly packed, everyone got a comfy spot. All snacks and drinks are included on board. We spotted the pilot whales and bottlenose dolphins. We were able to get super close to them! We made a stop to swim, towels were provided and a small shower to wash off, a place to change after as well. Overall, highly recommend and well worth the price. Thank you for having us!”

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3.Whale and Dolphin Watching Tour in Madeira

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

Meet the On Tales team at Calheta Marina, then sail aboard Miranda with a maximum of 12 people. Crew members such as Emanuel, Beatriz, Bruno, and Thibault may share local sea knowledge, help you spot wildlife, and take you to a calm bay for swimming and snorkeling.

“Communication with the company was excellent. They also sorted out our transfer from Funchal to calgheta. Lovely clean boat. Attentive staff. Didn't see whales or dolphins due to weather but the trip was still excellent. Would recommend the company”

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4.Private Dolphin and Whale Watching Tour in Madeira

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

Sail privately from Calheta for 2.5 hours with space for up to five people. On Tales provides snorkeling gear, towels, drinks, sparkling wine, and a crew that may include Emanuel or Beatrice. Expect coastal views, a swim stop, and a chance to see dolphins or whales, but no wildlife guarantee.

“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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5.Dolphin – Whale – Turtle – Bird Watching

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

Set out from Funchal in a purpose-built 18-seat RIB with two guides, including marine biologists such as Clara or Natasha on some departures. In about two hours, you search for dolphins, whales, turtles, and seabirds, then cruise past Funchal Bay and Câmara de Lobos.

“Very good saw plenty wildlife and our guide Clara was lovely , friendly and knowledgeable.would recommend”

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