The warm waters around Funchal reveal an underwater wonderland that’s perfect for exploring year-round. This Madeiran capital serves as an ideal base for both novice and experienced scuba enthusiasts.
Two standout operations caught my attention: The intimate Porto Moniz Aquarium program offers a controlled environment that’s great for first-timers, while Azul Diving Madeira impresses with its professional certification courses and beginner-friendly options. I especially appreciate their private instruction approach – it’s exactly what nervous newcomers need.
These carefully vetted experiences offer the best way to witness Madeira’s rich marine ecosystem. Let’s look at the top-rated underwater adventures in Funchal.
Good To Know
- Azul Diving Madeira in Funchal offers a variety of scuba diving experiences, including a small-group dive at the Madeira Aquarium, an open water course, and a discover scuba diving option.
- The Porto Moniz Small-Group Madeira Aquarium Scuba Dive provides an immersive underwater experience with a 100% recommendation rate and includes transportation, equipment, and bottled water.
- The Scuba Diving Experience in Madeira, offered by Azul Diving Madeira, is led by professional instructors, provides necessary equipment, and has a 95% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence.
- The 3 Days Open Water Course Scuba Diving from Azul Diving Madeira covers essential skills, includes classroom sessions, confined water training, and four open water dives, as well as private transportation and lunch.
- The Discover Scuba Diving or Try Dive option from Azul Diving Madeira includes a private PADI-certified class and a shallow water dive, allowing participants to observe marine life around Funchal.
Porto Moniz Small-Group Madeira Aquarium Scuba Dive – Funchal
Typically, the Porto Moniz Small-Group Madeira Aquarium Scuba Dive in Funchal provides visitors with an immersive underwater experience. With 206 reviews and a 100% recommendation rate, this scuba diving tour is highly sought after. The experience includes the use of scuba equipment, bottled water, and transportation to and from the meeting point at the Madeira Aquarium.
The dive takes place near the public transportation-accessible Porto Moniz, with the meeting and end point being the same. Confirmation is provided at the time of booking, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start. However, the dive isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnant women, or those with heart conditions or serious medical concerns, as a moderate level of physical fitness is required.
The maximum group size is 4 travelers, and the price varies based on the group size. This small-group format ensures a personalized and intimate diving experience in the waters near the Madeira Aquarium.
Read our full review: Porto Moniz Small-Group Madeira Aquarium Scuba Dive – Funchal Review
Book now: Check availability
Scuba Diving Experience in Madeira
Situated in the heart of Funchal, Azul Diving Madeira offers an unparalleled scuba diving experience that has captivated 211 travelers, earning a 95% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence. This SSI and PADI dive center provides a professional instructor, all necessary scuba equipment, and a convenient meeting point at the Hotel Penha França Mar. The experience includes all fees and taxes, as well as pickup, ensuring a seamless adventure.
Participants can explore the stunning underwater world of Madeira, but those with medical conditions or who are pregnant should consult with the provider beforehand. Travelers must also refrain from flying for 12 hours after the dive. With a maximum of 4 travelers per group, this experience offers an intimate and personalized scuba diving journey. Lastly, the provider offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, providing flexibility for guests.
Read our full review: Scuba Diving Experience in Madeira Review
Book now: Check availability
3 Days Open Water Course Scuba Diving
Completing the 3-day Open Water Scuba Diving course with Azul Diving Madeira allows participants to explore the stunning underwater landscapes of Funchal, Portugal. This SSI and PADI-certified dive center provides all the necessary equipment and training for beginners to become certified divers.
The course takes place over three days, with classroom sessions, confined water training, and four open water dives. Participants will learn essential skills like equipment assembly, underwater communication, and safety procedures. By the end of the course, they’ll be able to plan and execute supervised dives up to 60 feet deep.
The program includes private transportation, hotel pickup, and a delicious lunch. With a maximum of 5 travelers, the experience offers personalized attention from experienced instructors. Recommended by 97% of past participants, this Open Water Scuba Diving course is an excellent way to discover the diverse marine life and stunning underwater vistas around Funchal.
Read our full review: 3 Days Open Water Course Scuba Diving Review
Book now: Check availability
Discover Scuba Diving or Try Dive
For those who aren’t quite ready for the full open water certification, the Discover Scuba Diving or Try Dive experience offered by Azul Diving Madeira provides an excellent introduction to the underwater world. After a private PADI-certified class to learn the basics of scuba diving, you will enjoy a brief shallow water dive to observe the vibrant marine life around Funchal. This course can even be used towards future PADI certification, making it a great stepping stone for aspiring divers.
With all necessary equipment provided and round-trip transfers included, the experience is both convenient and hassle-free. It’s important to note that the activity isn’t recommended for travelers with certain medical conditions, and the minimum age requirement isn’t specified. However, with 5 positive reviews and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, the Discover Scuba Diving or Try Dive is an excellent option for those looking to dip their toes into the world of scuba in Funchal.
Read our full review: Discover Scuba Diving or Try Dive Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
Funchal offers a range of scuba diving experiences for all levels, from beginner courses to guided dives at the Madeira Aquarium. Visitors can explore the island’s underwater world and discover its diverse marine life. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or trying it for the first time, Funchal provides the perfect setting for an unforgettable scuba diving adventure.