Funchal, the capital of Madeira, offers some of the most rewarding sailing experiences in Portugal. Its rugged coastline, clear Atlantic waters, and abundant marine life make it a prime spot for boating adventures. Whether you’re in search of close encounters with dolphins and whales or want to enjoy a luxurious sunset cruise, Funchal has options to suit every taste. We’re especially fond of the Seaborn Catamaran trips, which combine wildlife viewing with stunning coastal scenery—perfect for anyone who loves being out on the water with a crew that knows where to spot dolphins, turtles, and even whales in the summer months.
While Funchal’s vibrant port area makes sailing trips easy to access, the variety of options means travelers can choose everything from relaxed wildlife cruises to exclusive New Year’s Eve celebrations onboard a luxury catamaran. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the five best sailing experiences in Funchal, helping you pick the right trip based on your interests, budget, and sense of adventure.
1. Seaborn Catamaran trips

At number one on our list is the Seaborn Catamaran trips, which combine a relaxed pace with excellent wildlife spotting. This approximately 3-hour cruise is perfect if you want to see Madeira’s coastline from a different perspective while searching for dolphins, turtles, and whales—especially in the summer months. The crew knows the waters well and takes you to the best spots, so you don’t have to worry about spotting marine life on your own.
The boat itself is a comfortable catamaran with an onboard bar offering drinks as you cruise along. The trip is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts who appreciate a laid-back atmosphere and the chance to take in incredible views you wouldn’t see from land. The reviews consistently praise the friendly crew, the opportunity to see dolphins and whales, and the chance to snorkel if conditions allow. One reviewer said, “Loved to see some different dolphin species! The crew made sure to inform the passengers about what species were sighted during the trip.” For $40.64 per person, it offers excellent value for the experience and scenery.
Bottom Line: If you’re looking for a friendly, well-organized wildlife cruise with no sailing experience necessary, this is a top choice.
2. Funchal: New Year’s Eve – Luxury Catamaran with food & drink

At number two, the Luxury New Year’s Eve Catamaran offers an exclusive way to ring in the new year. This 2.5-hour evening cruise provides a private, intimate setting aboard a sleek catamaran with premium service, fine foods, and drinks. It’s designed for travelers seeking a special celebration away from the crowds, with a strategic anchorage point offering spectacular views of Funchal Bay’s fireworks.
The small group setting ensures personalized attention from the crew, which makes the experience feel very special. Guests rave about the tranquility and the high-quality service, with some noting it’s a memorable way to enjoy the city’s fireworks display from the water. Priced at $352 per person, this tour is clearly a splurge, but it’s a once-in-a-lifetime way to celebrate a new year in Madeira.
Bottom Line: Perfect for couples or small groups wanting a luxurious, private celebration with stunning bay views.
3. Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour and Catamaran Whale & Dolphin Watching

Number three on our list offers a flexible way to explore Funchal. The Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour combined with a whale and dolphin cruise gives you a 1-day pass to see the city’s highlights at your own pace, plus a chance to go out on the water for wildlife viewing.
The bus stops include popular sites like the Funchal Market, the Old Town, and Pico dos Barcelos, and you can hop off whenever something catches your eye. The cruise itself is a highlight, with the chance to spot pilot whales, dolphins, and other marine life. Reviewers mention that this combination is ideal for independent travelers wanting a mix of land and sea experiences without feeling rushed. The ticket costs $54.55 per person and offers a good overall value, especially if you enjoy exploring at your own pace.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want the flexibility to explore Funchal’s sights and enjoy a wildlife cruise without multiple bookings.
4. Madeira Dolphin and Whale Watching on an Ecological Catamaran

Coming in at number four is the Madeira Dolphin and Whale Watching Ecological Catamaran. This trip is highly rated with over 1,700 reviews and offers a deep dive into Madeira’s vibrant marine ecology. It’s a 3-hour cruise departing from Funchal Marina, with options for morning or afternoon departures.
What makes this experience stand out is its focus on ecological awareness and naturalist-guided sightings. The boat is equipped with trampoline nets and spacious decks for optimal viewing, and the crew actively share insights about the marine environment. Expect to see pilot whales, dolphins, and perhaps other creatures depending on the season. Many guests praise the professionalism of the staff and the chance to get close to marine life without disturbing it. A reviewer noted, “Saw dolphins and whales, and the staff made an effort to advise us on what we could see.” It costs $40.35 per person, making it excellent value for a fully guided wildlife experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for eco-conscious travelers who want an educational, animal-friendly cruise with a comfortable boat and knowledgeable crew.
5. Sailing Tour with BBC

Our final pick is the Sailing Tour with BBC, which offers a 4-hour journey aboard a classic 43-foot sailboat designed by Bruce Roberts. This tour appeals to those seeking a more traditional sailing experience with a touch of luxury. The boat features two masts, offering an authentic sailing atmosphere and a chance to learn basic sailing techniques if interested.
Guests enjoy relaxing onboard, soaking up the sun, and sharing a barbecue prepared during the trip. The tour emphasizes social responsibility, with part of the proceeds supporting local causes, adding a feel-good element. While reviews are positive, some mention that it’s suited for those comfortable with a more active sailing experience and who appreciate a social, community-focused vibe. Pricing is around $101 per person, which reflects the high quality and personalized experience.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers wanting a traditional sailing adventure with a social twist and the chance to learn about sailing from an experienced crew.
How to Choose the Right Sailing Experience in Funchal
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, interests, and how active you want your day to be. For wildlife lovers, the Seaborn Catamaran trips and the Ecological Dolphin and Whale Watching are excellent choices, each offering good value and chances to see marine life up close. If you’re celebrating a special occasion, the Luxury New Year’s Eve Cruise promises an unforgettable night with privacy and comfort. For those who prefer a mix of sightseeing and wildlife, the Hop-on Hop-off combines flexibility with adventure. Lastly, if you’re after a traditional sailing experience with a social element, the Sailing Tour with BBC offers a laid-back, community atmosphere.
To get the most out of your trip, plan your tour around the best weather months—late spring to early fall generally offers calmer seas and better wildlife sightings. Book early, especially for special occasions or popular trips, to secure your preferred date.
Funchal’s waters are waiting. Whether you want a family-friendly wildlife cruise, a luxurious celebration, or an authentic sailing adventure, the options above give you a range of memorable ways to experience Madeira from the water. Pick the one that fits your style, and set sail for a fantastic maritime adventure.