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Madeira Nature & adventure

Our most recommended Madeira Nature & adventure

Funchal: Dolphin and Whale Watching Catamaran Cruise

1. Funchal: Dolphin and Whale Watching Catamaran Cruise

Discover the natural beauty of Madeira coastline and look for marine life on this catamaran cruise from Funchal. Snorkel through schools of silver fish with high-quality snorkeling gear. Look for dolphins while sipping on a drink purchased from the onboard bar. See dolphins, whales, and turtles playing in their natural habitat. Throughout the year Madeira has different aquatic mammals journeying through its blue waters. Whether you come in summer or winter, the chances are high you’ll see one of these amazing creatures. Stop for a swim during the summer season or catch a glimpse of the world beneath the waves with the provided snorkeling equipment. Relax on deck with a refreshing drink from the onboard bar.

Madeira: Skywalk, Porto Moniz Volcanic Pools, and Fanal Tour

2. Madeira: Skywalk, Porto Moniz Volcanic Pools, and Fanal Tour

From Funchal we go to São Vicente in the North Coast, known for its vineyards, volcanic caves and Madeira table wine production, where we can see one of the most famous waterfall that by resembling a bride ́s veil got its name Véu da Noiva . Afterwards, we stop at the natural volcanic pools in Porto Moniz, one of the most visited places in Madeira, having the opportunity to swim in crystalline waters (entry not included) and enjoy the beautiful scenery around them. After this, we go uphill to Fanal, a place of rare beauty with centenary trees in the heart of the Laurissilva Forest (the largest in the world), which is one of the 7th Natural Wonders of Portugal. Continuing to Paúl da Serra, the biggest plateau of the island at nearly 1500 mts high with stunning views, we will have a lunch break (not included) in a typical Madeiran restaurant. To finish our tour, we drive to Cabo Girão, the highest Sea Cliff in Europe and the second in the World with 580 mts., better known for its suspended glass floor Viewpoint.

Funchal Bay: Dolphin & Whale Watch Luxury Catamaran Cruise

3. Funchal Bay: Dolphin & Whale Watch Luxury Catamaran Cruise

Spot the dolphins and whales that call Funchal Bay home on this catamaran cruise from Funchal. Snorkel in the crystal-clear waters under Cabo Girão and learn more about the majestic creatures from your expert crew. Arrive at New Marina - Funchal and board a luxury catamaran. Receive some safety information from the experienced crew. Choose to sit in the luxurious interior with comfortable seating and protection from the sun, and lounge chairs or outdoor hammocks. Afterward, sit back and relax as you sail towards the open sea. Although sightings of marine species can not be guaranteed, dolphins and whales are often found in the waters around Funchal. Keep an eye on the movements in the water whilst the crew answers any questions about the variety of species. Continue up to the high cliffs of Cabo Girão, which rise 580 meters above sea level. Anchor the boat at Cabo Girão and immerse yourself in the refreshing waters to explore underwater marine life with a snorkel. Then, sail at a leisurely pace around the Marina of Funchal, and marvel at the fantastic views of Madeira's landscapes. Return to Funchal New Marina for a quick landing process and continue to enjoy your day after the tour.

From Funchal: Best of Madeira's West Tour

4. From Funchal: Best of Madeira's West Tour

Escape the hustle and bustle of Funchal on a full-day scenic tour of the west of Madeira. Admire the unspoiled natural beauty of the area and visit the charming villages of Câmara de Lobos and Porto Moniz. Following pickup from selected hotels in Funchal, pass through the traditional fishing village of Câmara de Lobos. Continue to Cabo Girão Skywalk, Europe's highest cliff skywalk at 589m. Next, head towards the Ribeira Brava and go north through the deep and narrow valleys of Serra D'Água. Upon arrival at Encumeada, enjoy an incredible view of the south and north coast of the island. Cross a mountain pass, and witness the rugged beauty of the north coast, where Atlantic rollers deposit white surf on the cliffs. Traverse Madeira's highest plateau, and enjoy more spectacular panoramas. Continue to São Vicente on Madeira’s north coast. Visit the beautiful village of Porto Moniz and take 1 hour for lunch, as well as time to admire the volcanic swimming pools. Finish your tour at Paul da Serra to see one of the biggest natural reserves in the world.

From Funchal: Dolphin and Whale Watching Catamaran Cruise

5. From Funchal: Dolphin and Whale Watching Catamaran Cruise

Go green with the #1 dolphin and whale watching experience in Madeira Island! Cruise on our brand new purpose-built eco-friendly catamaran and enjoy a comfortable cruise along the south coast of Madeira Island. Watch out for wonderful whales and dolphins jumping and splashing nearby. When sea life arrives our electric engines engage for silent emission free cruising which helps keep the cetaceans very happy! On this tour we will sail a few miles out of Funchal looking for all kinds of wildlife such as dolphins, whales, turtles and endemic birds. We often spot these animals jumping and splashing nearby and it’s always a great sight that never gets old!! Our certified guides will provide you with informative commentary and fun facts about the cetaceans and different species that you may find on your trip and in Madeira Island. On our way back, we sail close to the coast passing by many points of interest such Cabo Girão where you will enjoy stunning views of one of the highest sea cliffs in the world! Camara de Lobos Bay – a traditional fishing village; the world famous Reid’s Hotel where Winston Churchill used to stay during his visits to Madeira Island and much more! You will be able to sit back and take in the beautiful views of the south coast of Madeira Island. Magic Dolphin Eco is the only purpose built catamaran for dolphin and whale watching in Madeira Island. It was carefully developed to assure our passengers a safe, comfortable and unforgettable cruise! It is the only ecological catamaran with hybrid-electric engines for dolphin and whale watching, making it the best experience not only for our guests, but also for our beloved cetaceans! Bar service (2x) with drinks and snacks available; Toilets (2x) on deck wheelchair accessible; Two decks for better sightseeing; Fantastic upper deck providing 360° panoramic views! Great bridge deck shade area; Large nets and sea life observation area; Seating for everyone inside and out; Fast Catamaran – up to 20 knots; Modern safety construction 2022; Stable and comfortable cruising. We are one of very few companies to work with professional sealife spotters on land, providing the best possible chances of seeing them in their natural habitat and high quality observation! We are all about responsible dolphin and whale watching, and love sharing our knowledge with you! Join us and observe sealife the right way, in the wild! Note: The cetaceans in Madeira are wild and free, and it is simply not possible to guarantee their sighting. We observe cetaceans every day, however not always every trip. We will always do our best to find them, however if you are unlucky we will do our best to make you happy! Note: Please arrive to our office in Funchal Marina 30 minutes before departure. If you miss the boat, you will be refused a refund. Note: Cancelations/ Booking Changes must be made 24h prior to departure time.

All Inclusive Whale and Dolphin Watching Luxury Tour

6. All Inclusive Whale and Dolphin Watching Luxury Tour

Your 3-hour luxury catamaran tour begins at the docks of the new marina of Funchal. Board the catamaran and enjoy a glass of sparkling wine before setting off. Sail into the ocean to find dolphins, whales, and turtles. Spot these creatures in their natural habitat. After sailing around spotting dolphins, whales and turtles enjoy a 30 minute stop next to Cabo Girão, the 1920 foot (586m) seaside cliff. Here you have a change o go swimming in the crystal clear waters. After a quick swim, you will get back on the boat where you can relax and enjoy the views of the coast of Funchal as you head back to the marina.

From Funchal: Madeira Dolphin and Whale Watching Tour

7. From Funchal: Madeira Dolphin and Whale Watching Tour

Climb aboard a comfortable catamaran for a relaxing trip along Madeira's south coast from the Marina do Funchal. Look for dolphins and whales (and even turtles) playing in the cold waters of the sea. Be on the lookout for dolphins and whales as you tour Madeira's south coast on a catamaran cruise. During the summer months, stop to swim below the cliffs of Cabo Girão, one of the highest sea cliffs in the world. A qualified crew will provide detailed information in various languages about the species of cetaceans (dolphins and whales) you see. Also get historical and technical information for a truly unique experience. In the event, you don’t spot any whales or dolphins you will be offered a complimentary second trip. However, if you only see dolphins but not whales, no refund will be offered.

From Funchal: Swimming with Dolphins in Madeira Island

8. From Funchal: Swimming with Dolphins in Madeira Island

Swim with dolphins in their natural habitat in the crystal-clear waters of Madeira Island. Enjoy the support and guidance of on-hand instructors who will teach you how to approach and interact with the dolphins. Board your boat and head towards the area with a 99% chance of seeing dolphins. Get the opportunity to swim with two species of dolphins: common dolphins and spotted dolphins. As you enter the water, remain safely connected to the boat at all times. Get comfortable in the water and approach the dolphins with the support of your instructor. Once you're ready, begin to swim with the dolphins in front, below, and next to you and admire these beautiful mammals up close, and in their natural habitat. 

Hike Madeira: Pico Arieiro to Pico Ruivo

9. Hike Madeira: Pico Arieiro to Pico Ruivo

The sun rises over your hotel as you set out on your walking tour adventure. Leaving from the comforts of your room in Funchal on the Madeira Islands, we'll drive you up to the third highest peak in Madeira - the magnificent Pico Arieiro. You'll sip coffee or a drink on your way up to the base of the peak, looking out at all the stunning beauty this place has to offer. As we head from sea level up to the base at 5,964ft (1818m), you'll pass beautiful flora and fauna. Finally, we'll begin our mighty walk up the mighty Pico Arieiro up to the highest point on the island, the Pico Ruivo peak at 6107 ft (1862m). Finally, we'll walk down to Teixeira where you'll be comfortably transferred back to your hotel. And of course, no day of hiking is complete without a drink at a traditional bar, so we'll make sure to stop at one with a spectacular view to enjoy the closing of your day!

Funchal: Whale and Dolphin Watching Speed Boat Tour

10. Funchal: Whale and Dolphin Watching Speed Boat Tour

Start with a short briefing from your biologist guide, which will provide information on the various types of wildlife you will search for on the tour. Set out in a speed boat with a capacity for 12 people. Admire the beautiful coastline of the island of Madeira while searching for various marine species. With a skilled crew, embark on a search for various species of dolphin and whales which are found in the waters surrounding the island. You are guaranteed to catch sightings of cetaceans while on the tour. If any species are not found, you will be offered a second trip for free.

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What people are saying about Madeira

Overall rating

4.7 / 5

based on 4,572 reviews

Great experience! We were able to see common dolphins and even some rare beaked whales, which our guide and marine biologist was able to tell us all about. I really recommend this company as they really value nature and wildlife and respecting it fully, which is so important for sustainability. Lovely views, comfortable on the boat, with great coffee too!

Great jeep safari tour! We got to see a lot of places we would never reach by car or public transport. Plenty of time to enjoy the viewpoints and take pictures. Wonderfull driver and a lot of explanations about the fauna and flora of the island.

Very good first experience, mixing road, levadas, tails and single tracks Very good bikes Jimmy knows the techique very well and shares it

Very beautiful landscape. Viewpoints were very impressive. Really nice island

We had Gil as a guide, he was able to tell us a lot in German.