Funchal: Half and Full Day Private Sailboat Tour

Funchal: Half and Full Day Private Sailboat Tour — An Authentic Sea Adventure

When you’re visiting Madeira, one of the best ways to see the island’s stunning coastline is from the deck of a sailboat. For a truly intimate experience, the Half and Full Day Private Sailboat Tour offers an opportunity to explore the south coast with a small, private group—up to six people—aboard a beautiful vessel. Priced at $739 per group, this tour provides a personalized touch that big group tours simply can’t match.

This experience typically lasts between 4 to 6 hours, with flexible start times depending on availability. You’ll enjoy panoramic views of Funchal’s skyline, private bays, and access to secluded beaches accessible only by sea. Keep an eye out for dolphins and whales, and take a refreshing dip or snorkel in the Atlantic’s mild waters.

There are two aspects we especially appreciate: First, the personalized service makes it feel like sailing with friends rather than strangers, and second, the opportunity to spot dolphins—an activity that turns children and adults into wide-eyed kids. However, a small consideration is that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included—so you’ll need to get yourself to the marina. This tour suits travelers who love authentic, relaxed experiences and have a sense of adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Private Experience: Tailored to small groups for an intimate day at sea.
• Wildlife Viewing: Frequent dolphin and whale sightings enrich the trip.
• Snorkeling & Sunbathing: Calm Atlantic waters are perfect for swimming and relaxing.
• Included Amenities: Snacks, drinks, snorkeling gear, towels, and Wi-Fi add convenience.
• Flexible Duration: Choose between 4 and 6 hours based on your schedule.
• No Hotel Pickup: Participants should arrange transportation to the marina.

Exploring the Madeira Coast from the Water

The first thing you’ll notice about this tour is how much it emphasizes personalized service—something that many travelers crave when seeking a more genuine experience. The boat, marked clearly by a big white flag with “Happy Hour Madeira,” is easy to find at the Marina do Funchal. The captain and crew are described as great hosts—friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to make sure everyone has a memorable time.

Onboard, you’ll be treated to a welcome drink and light snacks—a simple yet thoughtful touch that sets a relaxed mood. The vessel itself is described as beautiful, with Doreen, one of the satisfied travelers, noting her experience as “Great Hosts, beautiful ship.” The relaxed atmosphere combined with quality service makes this a perfect outing for couples, families, or small groups of friends.

Itinerary Breakdown

The tour takes you along both east and west sections of Madeira’s south coast, giving you a well-rounded view of the scenery. The boat’s ability to access private beaches is a real highlight—these spots are typically impossible to reach from land, making the experience quite special. Whether you’re relaxing on deck, sunbathing, or snorkeling, you’ll get to see a variety of bays and coastline that showcase Madeira’s natural beauty.

Wildlife Watching

One of the big draws—mentioned repeatedly in reviews—is the incredible chance to spot dolphins and whales. These sightings happen frequently, and the tour guides are praised for their knowledge and enthusiasm, making wildlife watching all the more exciting. Watching these intelligent creatures play nearby is a highlight that keeps travelers captivated.

More Great Tours Nearby

Snorkeling & Beach Access

Another aspect that makes this tour stand out is the opportunity to snorkel in the Atlantic. The waters are described as year-round mild, meaning you’ll likely be swimming or relaxing in the sun, depending on weather conditions. The inclusion of snorkeling gear, paddles, and towels means you’re well-equipped for a refreshing break in the water.

Food and Drinks

The open bar—featuring water, juices, beer, and wine—is a welcome addition, especially after a swim or a hot day on deck. For those wanting a more gourmet experience, a special menu prepared by AKUA Chef is available for an extra fee, which might be worth considering if you want a more upscale dining option during your boat trip.

The Experience in Detail: What You Can Expect

Starting at the Marina do Funchal, you’ll easily spot the blue sailboat with the prominent white flag. The crew is described as attentive and friendly, ready to welcome you aboard with a sense of adventure.

Once onboard, the first hour or two is spent cruising along the coast, offering beautiful panoramic views of Funchal, with the city’s colorful rooftops and lush hills providing a stunning backdrop. You’ll pass by private beaches that are only accessible by boat, a secretive perk that adds an element of exclusivity.

As your boat meanders west and east, the guides often point out interesting landmarks, local wildlife, and hidden bays. The dolphin and whale sightings are generally frequent, with guides eager to share their knowledge and passion for marine life. This part of the tour creates a sense of wonder, especially when pods of dolphins leap alongside the boat.

Midway or near the end, you’ll anchor at some of the more secluded beaches or bays, giving you a chance to swim, snorkel, or simply soak up the sun. The snorkeling equipment provided will help you explore the undersea world, giving you a different perspective of Madeira’s coastline.

The tour typically wraps up back at the marina after a relaxing 4 to 6 hours at sea, leaving you with unforgettable memories of the Atlantic waters and the stunning landscape.

Authenticity and Value for Money

Considering the price of $739 for up to 6 people, this experience offers solid value for those wanting a private, tailored day on the water. Unlike larger group excursions, this private tour ensures a calmer, more flexible experience—you can customize your time, and the crew is dedicated to your comfort.

The inclusion of snacks, drinks, snorkeling gear, towels, and Wi-Fi further enhances value, removing the need to pack these essentials. The fact that the tour includes wildlife encounters and access to private beaches means you’re getting more than just a boat ride; it’s a chance to see Madeira from a truly unique perspective.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private sailboat experience is ideal for small groups or families who appreciate a more personal touch. If you’re seeking a relaxed, intimate adventure with opportunities to see dolphins, snorkel in calm waters, and enjoy scenic coastlines, this tour checks all those boxes. It’s perfect for travelers who want to avoid crowded boat trips and prefer a more authentic, tailored experience.

However, if you’re concerned about hotel pickup, remember that transportation to the marina isn’t included. Also, it’s not suitable for people with back problems or over 70 years old, due to the nature of boat movement.

The Sum Up: Why Choose This Private Sailboat Tour?

In a nutshell, this half-day private sailboat experience offers a rare chance to enjoy Madeira’s coast with outstanding personalized service, wildlife sightings, and access to hidden beaches. The combination of stunning scenery, dolphin watching, and water activities makes it a memorable highlight of any Madeira trip.

It’s best suited for travelers who value authenticity over crowds, and who want the flexibility to customize their day at sea. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a peaceful getaway from land-based sightseeing, you’ll find this tour offers a genuine connection to Madeira’s natural beauty.

The positive reviews attest to the knowledgeable guides and beautiful ship, promising an experience that’s as enjoyable as it is scenic. For those who love the sea, wildlife, and a touch of luxury, this private sailboat tour is a fantastic choice.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
Yes, especially if your kids enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and wildlife spotting. Just keep in mind the need for supervision during water activities.

Do I need my own transportation to the marina?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own way to the Marina do Funchal.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring your swimwear, sunscreen, and a hat. Towels, snorkeling gear, and blankets are provided, but it’s good to have your personal items for comfort.

Can I add a gourmet meal to the tour?
Yes, a gourmet menu prepared by AKUA Chef is available for an extra fee of over 60 euros per person—just let the provider know in advance.

How long does the tour last?
Typically between 4 and 6 hours, with flexible starting times depending on availability.

Is there Wi-Fi onboard?
Yes, Wi-Fi is available for guests to share photos or stay connected during the trip.

Are there any restrictions on who can join?
The tour is not suitable for people with back problems or those over 70 years old, due to the boat’s movement.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

This private sailboat tour in Madeira offers a mix of adventure, relaxation, and authentic ocean views—perfect for those wanting to experience Madeira from the water with style and comfort.

You can check availability for your dates here: