Funchal: Private Boat Tour w/Snorkel & Paddle up 11 people

Booking a boat tour in Madeira can feel a bit overwhelming with so many options, but a private cruise like this one stands out for its personalized touch and versatility. This 3.5-hour experience, offered by CRISTAL SEA MADEIRA, promises not just scenic views but also active water fun—snorkeling, paddleboarding, and swimming in crystal-clear waters—making it ideal for families and groups of friends alike.

What really excites us about this tour is its flexibility; it’s designed to cater to your needs, whether you’re after relaxation, adventure, or a bit of both. Plus, with knowledgeable skippers, stunning coastlines, and a chance to avoid crowded group tours, it feels like a true Madeira insider experience.

However, a possible consideration is the lack of onboard bathrooms, so if you’re sensitive to long hours on the water, plan accordingly. Still, this tour offers great value for those wanting a mix of sightseeing and water activities in a private setting—perfect for creating memorable moments with loved ones.

This experience suits travelers who crave authentic, active days on the water, those with a sense of adventure, and anyone looking for a private, flexible way to explore Madeira’s coast. It’s especially appealing for families or groups who want customization and a more intimate connection with the island’s stunning marine environment.

Good To Know

• Personalized Experience: Private group with a dedicated skipper ensures tailored tours and special attention.
• Variety of Activities: Snorkeling, paddleboarding, and swimming are included, offering diverse ways to enjoy the water.
• Stunning Scenery: Routes cover iconic spots like Cabo Girao, Funchal, and Camara de Lobos with breathtaking views.
• Flexible Itinerary: If weather conditions change, the route adapts to ensure the best experience.
• Comfort & Convenience: All water equipment, fruit, Bluetooth speaker, and insurance are included; bring your own snacks and drinks.
• Limited Group Size: Up to 11 people, creating an intimate, less crowded environment.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Deep Dive into the Madeira Private Boat Experience

Starting Point & Practical Details

The tour kicks off from Praça do Povo at Marina Funchal, specifically in front of the McDonald’s, marked by a boat with a blue top and white paddleboard. This location is easy to find and offers a relaxed start for your water adventure. The boat itself is well-equipped with a paddleboard, snorkel masks, noodles, and a Bluetooth speaker, enhancing the overall experience.

The tour duration is approximately 3.5 hours, making it manageable for most schedules while still offering plenty of time to enjoy the water and scenery. The maximum capacity is 11 people, ensuring a comfortable, exclusive feel—ideal for small groups wanting to avoid large tour crowds.

Route and Key Stops

The cruise begins with a scenic departure from Marina Funchal, giving you your first glimpse of the coast. The main route includes Funchal’s skyline, the rugged Cabo Girao coast, Calhau da Lapa, and Camara de Lobos. If weather conditions make the preferred side of Cabo Girao unsuitable, the skippers will adjust the route to ensure you still get the best possible views and experiences.

What Makes the Route Special

The panoramic vistas along the coast are what make this tour stand out. Reviewers like Lucas mentioned how the “clean waters and picturesque landscapes” create perfect photo opportunities, with both skippers being helpful and knowledgeable. They shared insights about marine life and local landmarks, adding depth to the trip.

The route also gives ample opportunity for water activity. Snorkeling is a key feature—masks, snorkels, and noodles are provided, and travelers are encouraged to inform beforehand how many want to snorkel so equipment can be prepared. Many guests, like Giovana, expressed how much they enjoyed simply floating in the clear waters and exploring beneath the surface.

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Water Activities & Comfort

Snorkeling: The inclusion of masks and snorkels means you’ll have a chance to see Madeira’s vibrant marine life up close. Reviewers consistently praised the helpfulness of guides in sharing tips and answering questions, which enhances this activity.

Paddleboarding: The paddleboard adds a fun and active element to the trip. According to Lucas, being able to try paddleboarding while surrounded by stunning scenery was a highlight, and the provided board was easy to use even for beginners.

Swimming: The crystal waters invite multiple swims. The trip is well-paced—never feeling rushed—allowing everyone to soak up the scenery and enjoy the water at their leisure.

The Skippers & Crew

Guests like Jurgen and Lucas praise the guides for their friendliness, helpfulness, and knowledge sharing. Kristina and Fabio, in particular, received compliments for their warm hospitality and attentive service, making the entire experience feel personal and relaxed. They answered questions about marine life and the coastline, adding an educational touch to the trip.

Food & Extras

A selection of fresh fruit is included, perfect for re-energizing after some water activity. You’re welcome to bring your own snacks and drinks, which makes this tour flexible for your preferences. The Bluetooth speaker adds to the chilled vibe onboard, allowing you to enjoy your favorite tunes while cruising.

Price & Value

While the exact cost isn’t listed here, considering the inclusion of all equipment, fruit, insurance, and the private nature of the tour, it offers good value for a personalized Madeira experience. The small group size, knowledgeable guides, and flexible route make it a worthwhile choice for travelers wanting an authentic and active day on the water.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This private boat experience is perfect if you’re visiting Madeira with family, friends, or a small group that values intimacy and customization. It suits those who enjoy water sports but also want scenic sightseeing without the rush of larger tours. If you’re looking for a relaxed yet active day with chances to snorkel and paddleboard, this is a great pick.

It’s not suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility issues, or travelers over 70, given the physical nature of some water activities and the boat ride itself.

Final Thoughts

This Madeira private boat tour offers a balanced mix of sightseeing, water fun, and personalized service. The highlights—stunning coastlines, friendly guides, and versatile activities—make it a standout for those wanting a genuine, intimate experience on the water.

It’s especially valuable for travelers who want flexibility, want to avoid crowded group tours, and enjoy active outdoor pursuits. The route’s adaptability based on weather conditions ensures you’ll get the best views and experiences possible, making it a dependable choice for an authentic Madeira day out.

If you’re after a memorable, flexible, and scenic adventure that combines relaxation with a touch of adrenaline, this tour ticks all those boxes.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The private boat experience lasts approximately 3.5 hours, providing enough time for sightseeing, swimming, and water activities.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Praça do Povo in Marina Funchal, in front of McDonald’s, and concludes back at the same point.

What is included in the price?
All fuel, crew, snorkeling masks and noodles, one paddleboard, fruit, a Bluetooth speaker, VAT, and full insurance are included. You can bring your own snacks and drinks.

Is there a limit on the group size?
Yes, the tour accommodates up to 11 people, which keeps it intimate and personalized.

Are water activities suitable for beginners?
Yes. Both snorkeling and paddleboarding are suitable for beginners, and guides are helpful and knowledgeable.

Is there any equipment I need to bring?
Bring sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a hat, and a jacket for wind or cooler weather.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are there any restrictions?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for pregnant women, individuals with mobility impairments, or those over 70 years old.

Is it possible to customize the route?
Yes. If weather conditions prevent visiting the preferred side of Cabo Girao, the route will be adjusted to maximize your experience.

This private Madeira boat tour offers a well-rounded mix of scenic beauty, water fun, and personalized service. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, it’s a flexible choice that delivers a memorable day on the water.

You can check if your dates are available here: