Funchal: Whale Watching and Swimming with Dolphins Cruise

If you’re heading to Madeira and love the idea of spotting whales and dolphins in their natural environment, this whale watching and dolphin swim tour might just be your perfect outing. While we haven’t personally been on this exact trip, the reviews and detailed descriptions paint a compelling picture of what to expect. Expect a lively adventure on the water, guided by knowledgeable marine biologists, with chances to see incredible marine creatures up close and even swim among them.

What draws us to this experience are its small-group format for intimacy, the expert guidance that enriches the trip with stories and insights, and the guarantee of cetacean sightings—which is a real plus for wildlife enthusiasts. The ability to swim with dolphins adds an unforgettable touch that elevates this from your typical boat tour. That said, one consideration is that if you’re especially keen on swimming, you might want to check in advance if the weather allows or if the presence of calves or other constraints might limit your chances. This tour suits travelers who are animal lovers, curious about marine life, or seeking a memorable day on the water.

Good To Know

• Expert-guided experience with marine biologists enriching your knowledge
• Small groups for a more personal, quieter adventure
• Guarantee of cetacean sightings or a free second trip
• Opportunities to swim with dolphins in their natural habitat
• Duration of 2.5 hours makes it an easy addition to your Madeira itinerary
• Limited hotel transport—you meet at a designated location in Funchal

This tour offers a compact but immersive experience that combines wildlife spotting with the thrill of swimming with marine mammals. It lasts roughly 2.5 hours, giving you ample time on the water without it feeling overly long, making it a great option for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a quick, authentic encounter with Madeira’s marine residents.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour begins with a safety briefing that lasts around 10 minutes. This is your chance to get familiar with the boat, safety procedures, and what to expect during the trip. You’re advised to wear comfortable shoes and clothing—think layers, because the sea breeze can be brisk even in summer.

Next, you’ll set out from Rota dos Cetáceos, the designated meeting point, aboard a semi-rigid boat—a fast vessel that’s capable of covering great distances in search of whales and dolphins. The small boat size (with options of 18 or 36 seats) ensures you’re not stuck in a crowded crowd, and the experience feels more intimate.

Wildlife Sightings and Marine Environment

Locally guided by marine biologists, you’ll head off the coast of Madeira with the goal of locating whales and dolphins. The guides are well-versed in the habits of cetaceans, and their explanations make the experience more meaningful. One reviewer highlighted that “the guides were very knowledgeable,” which adds a layer of depth for those interested in marine conservation or just curious about the creatures.

The tour guarantees seeing cetaceans—if you don’t spot whales or dolphins, you’re entitled to a second trip free. This is especially reassuring for wildlife tours where sightings aren’t always guaranteed. Reviewers praised the crew for their quick thinking when weather conditions or animal behavior changed unexpectedly, like when orcas were spotted instead of the initially planned species.

The Real Highlight: Swimming with Dolphins

One standout feature of this tour is the chance to jump into the sea and swim with dolphins and sometimes turtles, creating memories that last a lifetime. However, a reviewer pointed out that “as there was a calf present, we weren’t able to swim with the dolphins,” indicating that safety and animal welfare precautions are taken seriously. Still, the opportunity remains a major draw for many.

The Experience on the Water

Expect to be enchanted by the sights and sounds of dolphins approaching you, as they often play nearby. The guides will point out behaviors and explain how these intelligent mammals communicate, adding educational value to the fun. You’ll also enjoy the stunning ocean views around Madeira, with the coastline and cliffs forming a dramatic backdrop.

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Comfort and Practicalities

The tour provides life vests for safety, and because it’s a small-group experience, you can easily ask questions or get close-up views. That said, the tour doesn’t include hotel transfers, so you’ll need to make your own way to the meeting point in Funchal.

When considering the cost, this tour packs a lot of value: a small-group, guided experience with marine experts, guaranteed wildlife sightings, and the rare chance to swim with dolphins. The 2.5-hour duration makes it accessible for most travelers, fitting well into a day of sightseeing or relaxing activities.

The guarantee of seeing whales and dolphins means you’re not just paying for a boat ride—you’re investing in the hope of witnessing majestic creatures in their natural environment, with the safety net of a second trip if conditions aren’t perfect. This reassurance, combined with the personalized guidance from marine biologists, ensures you’re not just on a boat but on an educational adventure.

Price and Booking

You can reserve your spot with the flexibility to pay later, making it easier to fit into your Madeira plans. Cancellations are free if done up to 24 hours in advance, giving you peace of mind.

This tour is ideal for animal lovers, families, and curious travelers eager to see Madeira’s marine life up close. If you’re after stunning views, expert guides, and a chance to swim with dolphins, this experience offers a great blend of adventure and education.

It’s especially suited for those who value small groups for a more personal experience and don’t mind being on the water for a couple of hours. The fact that the tour guarantees sightings or offers a second trip makes it a smart choice for wildlife enthusiasts.

For travelers with an interest in marine environments and a wish to make meaningful memories with playful dolphins, this tour checks all the boxes. Just remember to bring comfortable clothes and a sense of adventure, and be prepared for unpredictable wildlife encounters that make each trip unique.

How long is the tour?
The total duration is approximately 2.5 hours, including safety briefing and the boat ride.

Where do I meet for the tour?
You meet at Store 35, Rota dos Cetáceos, in Funchal, the designated starting point.

Is hotel pick-up available?
No, hotel transfers are not included, so you’ll need to make your way to the meeting point.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes and clothes, and consider packing sunscreen and a hat for sun protection.

What if I don’t see any whales or dolphins?
You’re covered—if no cetaceans are spotted, you can take a second trip for free.

Can I swim with the dolphins?
Yes, there’s a good chance to swim with dolphins and turtles, but it depends on animal behavior and safety considerations, especially if calves are present.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak Portuguese, English, and French, ensuring clear communication for most travelers.

Are the boats suitable for children?
Yes, the boats are small but stable, and the experience is suitable for families with children who can handle a boat ride.

Is this experience suitable for people with limited mobility?
Since the activity involves being on a boat and swimming in open water, it may not be suitable for those with significant mobility issues—check with the provider if needed.

To sum it up, this whale watching and dolphin swim tour in Madeira offers a fantastic mix of wildlife sightings, expert guidance, and the thrill of getting close to playful marine mammals. Its small-group setting and wildlife guarantee make it a smart pick for those eager to connect with the ocean’s most endearing creatures, all while enjoying the breathtaking scenery of Madeira’s coast.

You can check if your dates are available here: