Funchal: Guarantee Wild Dolphin&Whale Watching by RIB

Imagine hopping aboard a small, fast RIB boat, feeling the wind in your hair as you sail along the spectacular southern coastline of Madeira. For about $59 per person, this 2.5-hour trip promises the chance to spot dolphins, whales, and even turtles, in their natural habitat. The trip is designed for small groups, which means you get a more personal experience and closer encounters with these magnificent creatures.

What we particularly love about this tour is the intimate nature of the small boat—it allows for better wildlife viewing and a more relaxed atmosphere. Plus, the option to snorkel with dolphins adds an adventurous twist that makes this experience stand out.

One potential consideration is that wildlife sightings depend on nature, so patience is key. Although the tour boasts a 99% success rate in sightings, there’s always a bit of luck involved. This tour suits travelers who are keen on authentic wildlife encounters and don’t mind a splash of sea spray and wind. Families, solo travelers, or groups of friends who enjoy a bit of adventure and nature will find this trip a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Small-group experience for more personal wildlife encounters
• High success rate of spotting dolphins, whales, and turtles
• Optional snorkeling with dolphins for added excitement
• Flexible booking with free second trips if no sightings occur
• Great value for a memorable, nature-focused adventure
• Ideal for nature lovers and those wanting an active, authentic experience

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Close Look at the Experience

Starting Points and Itinerary

The tour begins at two convenient meeting points in Funchal, with the exact location depending on your booking. After a safety briefing and donning lifejackets, you’re off to explore Madeira’s coastline. The boat takes you on a scenic cruise past notable sights like the Cabo Girao Cliff, offering fantastic views and a chance to appreciate Madeira’s rugged beauty from the water.

The core of the trip is spent searching for wild dolphins, whales, and even turtles, which are occasionally spotted along the way. The search for wildlife isn’t guaranteed—nature is unpredictable—but with a 99% success rate, your chances are quite high. If you’re lucky, the guides will position you for the best possible sightings, offering a close-up experience with these gentle marine mammals.

Wildlife Watching and the Search for Cetaceans

The main attraction is, of course, the wildlife. The guides are praised for being friendly, knowledgeable, and respectful of the animals’ space. Guests have reported seeing pilot whales, common dolphins, Atlantic spotted dolphins, and more. The respectful approach and sensitive observation make this tour appealing for travelers concerned about wildlife welfare.

According to reviews, the guides communicate well, sharing insights about the animals and keeping the group engaged. Some travelers noted that patience is key, as sightings can depend on the weather, the season, and luck. Still, the high success rate and enthusiastic guides make it a rewarding endeavor.

Snorkeling with Dolphins – An Optional Adventure

One of the tour’s highlights is the “Swim with Dolphins” add-on. If conditions are right—meaning the dolphins are behaving naturally and comply with animal protection laws—you might get a brief snorkel experience. The guides will provide masks and snorkels, and the short duration (about 1-2 minutes per person) means it’s more about the thrill of being close to the animals than an extended swim.

This option is only available for certain dolphin species, like Common or Atlantic Spotted Dolphins, and is charged on-site only if it’s possible to enter the water. Several reviews mention that not everyone gets to swim, but everyone appreciates the chance to see dolphins up close from the boat.

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The Scenic Final Stop – Cabo Girao

On the way back, the boat cruises past Cabo Girao, one of the world’s tallest sea cliffs, providing stunning panoramic views. Even if wildlife sightings are elusive, this scenic stop makes the trip worthwhile, offering plenty of photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate Madeira’s rugged coastline.

Flexibility and Guarantees

What truly stands out is the guarantee of a second trip free of charge if no cetaceans are spotted on your tour. This policy reflects the confidence of the operators and gives peace of mind, knowing that you’ll have at least one more shot at sightings if luck isn’t on your side the first time.

Practical Details

The duration of 2.5 hours strikes a good balance, offering enough time to see wildlife without fatigue. The small group size ensures that everyone gets a good view and that guides can adapt to conditions. The price of $59 is reasonable considering the potential for sightings and the personal nature of the trip.

What to Pack and Consider

Make sure to bring sun protection—hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen—and a windbreaker or waterproof jacket, especially if you’re visiting during cooler months or if the weather forecast predicts wind. It’s also worth noting that parking isn’t included, so plan your transport accordingly.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts who enjoy a more personalized and active experience. It’s ideal for travelers wanting to see dolphins, whales, and turtles in their natural environment. Families and groups of friends will appreciate the small-group setting and scenic cruise. If you’re looking for a hopeful wildlife sighting with the possibility of a snorkeling adventure, this trip delivers.

Final Thoughts

This dolphin and whale watching tour in Madeira offers a balanced mix of adventure, scenery, and wildlife discovery. The small-group size and high success rate of sightings make it a great value for those wanting a personal, authentic experience on the water. The optional snorkeling adds a fun, memorable element, especially for those who love to get a bit closer to nature.

While the success of wildlife sightings depends on the weather and luck, the friendly guides and respectful approach ensure that every trip feels genuine and enjoyable. The scenic cruise past Cabo Girao and the chance to see Madeira from a different perspective makes this an activity that combines wildlife, scenery, and adventure—perfect for travelers who want more than just a boat ride.

If you’re prepared for the unpredictable nature of wild animals and looking for an authentic encounter with Madeira’s marine life, this tour is a sound choice. It combines value for money with a personal touch, making it a memorable highlight of your trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of this tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours, giving you ample time to enjoy wildlife spotting and scenic views without feeling rushed.

How many people are in each group?
The experience is designed for small groups, which means fewer than 20 passengers, ensuring a more intimate and personalized experience.

Can I snorkel with the dolphins?
Yes, snorkeling is available as an add-on if the dolphins are behaving naturally and legal regulations permit. It’s a short experience, about 1-2 minutes per person.

What if no wildlife is seen during my trip?
The company offers a free second trip within a year if no cetaceans are spotted, giving you a second chance to see the creatures in their natural habitat.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the family-friendly nature of the trip, small boat size, and focus on wildlife viewing suggest it’s suitable for children, provided they are comfortable on a boat.

Do I need to bring anything?
Yes, pack sunscreen, sunglasses, a sun hat, and a windbreaker or waterproof jacket. Prepare for possible windy conditions at sea.

This dolphin and whale watching tour in Madeira combines the joy of wildlife encounters with scenic sailing, offering an authentic, memorable experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. With friendly guides, stunning views, and the promise of close-up encounters, it’s a trip that will leave you with stories to tell long after you’ve returned home.

You can check availability for your dates here: