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Madeira Snorkeling

Our most recommended Madeira Snorkeling

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.

Funchal Bay: Dolphin & Whale Watch Luxury Catamaran Cruise

2. 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.

All Inclusive Whale and Dolphin Watching Luxury Tour

3. 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.

Madeira: Half-Day Coasteering Tour

4. Madeira: Half-Day Coasteering Tour

"Coasteering" is a sports activity that allows one to progress along the coast, whether along a beach or a cliff. Along the way, you can make use of swimming, diving, snorkeling, climbing, traveling through caves or tunnels, and jumping into the water. Madeira has excellent conditions for this sport due to its lava and rocks shores, allowing visitors to swim in the crystal clear warm water. The waters form pristine views, with the mountain flowing almost into the sea. These activities take place on the southeast coast of Madeira, specifically in Baia d’Abra (Caniçal), a natural park of breathtaking beauty. The jumps, which are all optional, are between 1 and 10 meters high. Coasteering can be done by families, groups, or individuals of all ages, providing they can swim. Throughout the whole route, participants will be led by guides and instructors who will assist everyone in terms of safety techniques and all procedures.

From Funchal: Swimming with Dolphins in Madeira Island

5. 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. 

Madeira: Garajau Nature Reserve Kayak and Snorkel Tour

6. Madeira: Garajau Nature Reserve Kayak and Snorkel Tour

Start the day at the harbor where you will learn everything you need to know about kayaking before heading to the nature reserve. Upon arrival at Garajau, enjoy a 40-minute paddle toward Lazareto. Stop for a break on the beautiful pebble beach and take in the views of the surrounding rock features from times gone by. Afterward, discover Madeira's native marine life as you snorkel through crystal-clear waters. In the event of poor weather conditions, you will have the opportunity to explore the sea from the safety of your kayak instead. Finish the day with a spot of cliff diving before heading back to your hotel for the evening.

Madeira: Scuba Diving Experience

7. Madeira: Scuba Diving Experience

Your scuba diving adventure will begin with a short theory lesson about the practice of diving before doing a trial dive in the shallow waters of the swimming pool.  Once you feel comfortable and know how to handle the equipment, you’ll be ready for the real deal. Your diving instructor will take you for an exhilarating dive out in the sea to explore the spectacular underwater world of Funchal's Marine Park. The dive itself will last about 45 minutes at a maximum depth of 12 meters. At the end of the tour, you’ll receive a certificate of participation to make your next underwater adventure an absolute breeze.

Funchal: Scuba Diving Experience for Beginners

8. Funchal: Scuba Diving Experience for Beginners

Learn the basics of scuba diving from a PADI instructor and discover one of Funchal’s reefs. Practice your new skills in a pool to get comfortable, before embarking on your first dive around a shallow reef, where you can enjoy the vibrant colors and amazing variety of the Atlantic marine life. Start the experience at the Madeira Divepoint, which boasts its own private reef. Following an introduction and safety briefing, practice breathing and floating in a pool to get familiar with the equipment. To finish, head out to the reef to explore an incredible underwater world. Come face to face with colorful fish and striking coral as you enjoy the thrill of your first dive.

Funchal: Dolphin and Whale Watching Sunset Sailing Tour

9. Funchal: Dolphin and Whale Watching Sunset Sailing Tour

Get the chance to see dolphins, whales, and sea turtles on this relaxing sailing trip up to 3 miles from the coast. With some luck, you will see lots of native wildlife in its natural environment. Swim, snorkel or sit back and admire the views, and enjoy a complimentary adult beverage. Your journey begins at the marina in Funchal, where you will board the sailing yacht with a group of up to 20 people. There will be a stop to go swimming and snorkeling at Cabo Girão. Here, you can see the highest sea cliff in Europe, which towers 1,903 feet (580 meters) above the sea. If you don't want to swim, you can simply admire the beautiful coastal landscapes from the boat. You will be offered one complimentary drink on board and be able to admire the beautiful sunset over the sea.

Madeira: Half-Day Kayak and Snorkeling Tour

10. Madeira: Half-Day Kayak and Snorkeling Tour

Experience the best of the Underwater Nature Reserve of Garajau on this half-day snorkel and kayak tour. After a quick safety briefing and introduction to kayaking, head to the Lido Galomar beach complex, where your activity begins. Enjoy a relaxing kayak journey to a private beach that is only accessible by sea. Upon arrival at the beach, take some time to snorkel and swim in the crystal-clear waters of the park. Keep an eye out for the park's native sea animals. On the way back to the beach, kayak through some beautiful small caves before getting dropped off back at your hotel.

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What people are saying about Madeira

Overall rating

4.7 / 5

based on 180 reviews

On the day of the trip the weather was quite foggy and we were afraid we will not see anything. Our fears were unfounded, as the dolphins were perfectly visible and we had a lot of fun trying to spot them above the sea. Whales we couldn't find unfortunately but still we were satisfied with our experience.

It was very exciting, we saw whales and also some dolphins playing, so it was a successful trip. Our skipper and guide were friendly, they told us some interesting things about the Funchal bay and they made us feel safe all the time out there on the water. Highly recommend this excursion.

semplicità di orenotazione e conferma rapida ed esatta

So much fun! We didnt get to see any whales but we saw a few dolphins and it was so magical being out on the ocean. Really recommend!

One of the best experiences I’ve had on holidays, highly recommend for anyone who loves water sports

Superbly beautiful it's a very interesting story