Madeira is one of Europe’s best-kept secrets when it comes to marine life. The island’s position in the Atlantic, along with its diverse underwater habitats, makes it a prime destination for dolphin and whale watching. Whether you’re eager to see playful dolphins, majestic whales, or even turtles, Madeira offers tours that cater to all tastes and budgets. We especially love the ecological catamaran trips, like the From Funchal: Ecological Catamaran Dolphin Whale Watching, which use hybrid engines and silent observation methods, giving you a more authentic experience without disturbing the wildlife.
For those who prefer a touch of luxury, the All Inclusive Whale and Dolphin Watching Luxury Tour combines top-notch comfort, open bar, and scenic stops. If speed and adrenaline are more your style, the Magic Dolphin Sea Safaris offers a high-speed adventure with a 5-star rating. Whatever your budget or enthusiasm for marine life, Madeira’s tours promise unforgettable moments with its rich underwater residents.
Quick Overview
Madeira’s top dolphin watching experiences include eco-friendly catamarans, luxurious all-inclusive cruises, fast speedboat safaris, and RIB boat tours for the adrenaline junkies. Some tours focus on environmental responsibility, supporting marine research and ethical wildlife viewing, like the Responsible Whales and/or Dolphins Watching Tour. Others emphasize speed and excitement, such as the Magic Dolphin Sea Safaris, which guarantees a faster encounter with marine life. Below, we break down each tour’s unique features, helping you find the right fit.
1. From Funchal: Ecological Catamaran Dolphin Whale Watching
This tour stands out for its eco-conscious approach. The custom-built Eco-catamaran uses hybrid engines and silent, emission-free electric motors, allowing for closer and less intrusive wildlife sightings. Over 6,000 reviews give it a 4.5/5 rating, praising the helpful crew and chance to see dolphins and whales in their natural habitat. The trip lasts about 2.5-3 hours and includes a visit to Cabo Girao for a refreshing swim.
What makes this tour special is its commitment to sustainability and the modern technology that minimizes environmental impact. Guests love the quiet observation nets and the opportunity to swim in Cabo Girao’s waters. This tour is perfect for eco-minded travelers who want a respectful and informative wildlife experience. Expect plenty of dolphin sightings, and the chance to see whales, too. The reviews consistently mention how friendly and knowledgeable the crew is.
Bottom line: If you value eco-friendly travel and high-tech observation, this tour offers a peaceful, responsible way to connect with Madeira’s marine life.
2. All Inclusive Whale and Dolphin Watching Luxury Tour
Rated 4.9/5 with over 1,800 reviews, this luxury cruise offers a completely relaxed experience. For around $90, you’ll enjoy sailing aboard a spacious catamaran with both indoor and outdoor seating, along with unlimited drinks from the open bar, including a welcome glass of sparkling wine. The tour covers scenic stops like Cabo Girao, where you can snap photos and enjoy local snacks.
The highlight here is the VIP service, making it ideal for couples or travelers seeking comfort and style. Guests have reported seeing pilot whales, dolphins, and even a sunfish, with knowledgeable guides explaining each species. The itinerary includes marine wildlife viewing, scenic drives, and swimming, making it perfect for those who want a luxurious, all-in-one experience.
Value for money is strong here, given the premium amenities and small group atmosphere. It’s well suited for travelers who want a comfortable, high-end day at sea with wildlife sightings as a bonus.
Bottom line: For those looking to combine wildlife, scenic views, and VIP treatment, this tour offers a luxury experience that’s hard to beat.
3. Funchal: Dolphin and Whale Watching Catamaran Cruise
With a solid 4.5/5 rating from over 4,300 reviews, this affordable 3-hour trip is a favorite for families and first-timers. It departs from Funchal and features panoramic views of the coast, with opportunities to see dolphins, whales, and turtles. The trip includes swimming in the summer, adding a fun element for water lovers.
What makes this tour appealing is its balance of price and experience. Passengers report that guides are informative, sharing facts about the wildlife and the island. The boat’s stability and comfort make it accessible even for those with limited mobility. Plus, the scenic cruise along the coastline offers great photo opportunities.
Guests say the trip is well-organized and that the crew’s knowledge enhances the experience. The modest price makes it a solid choice for travelers seeking a reliable, friendly wildlife tour.
Bottom line: If you want a cost-effective, scenic, and wildlife-rich boat trip, this tour delivers a dependable experience.
4. Madeira: Responsible Whales and/or Dolphins Watching Tour
Rated 4.9/5 from 770 reviews, this eco-friendly tour is about ethical wildlife observation. It’s a small-group experience on a fast, comfortable boat focusing on supporting marine research and respectful viewing—no chasing or feeding wildlife. The tour lasts two hours, with professional land-based spotters enhancing sightings.
Guests love how respectful the guides are and how they emphasize conservation. Many have seen pilot whales, dolphins, turtles, and other marine creatures. The tour’s focus on environmental responsibility makes it ideal for eco-conscious travelers.
This tour offers a more intimate experience and is perfect if you’re keen to support sustainable tourism. The reviews praise the knowledgeable crew and the authentic connection to nature.
Bottom line: For those wanting a more mindful approach that emphasizes conservation, this tour is a top pick.
5. Funchal: Dolphin and Whale Watching Sailing Trip
Rated 4.6/5 by over 1,100 reviewers, this yacht trip offers a more traditional sailing experience. It lasts three hours and includes snorkeling and swimming opportunities, making it ideal for water enthusiasts. The trip is praised for its stunning coastal views and friendly guides.
Guests mention beautiful scenery and the chance to see dolphins and whales. The skipper and crew are professional and attentive, making sure everyone feels safe. The snorkeling stop is well-liked and adds an active element to the trip.
While some reviews note that wildlife sightings depend on luck, the overall experience is highly positive. It’s a good fit for those wanting a combination of sailing, wildlife, and water fun.
Bottom line: If you’re after a relaxing, active, and scenic trip that combines wildlife with swimming, this tour is a strong choice.
6. Funchal: Dolphin and Whale Watching Cruise
This 2-hour speedboat adventure has a 5-star rating and is perfect for thrill-seekers. Led by a marine biologist, it offers up-close encounters with dolphins and whales in a fast-paced environment. Many reviews highlight how close and personal the wildlife comes.
The trip is especially good for families with kids or anyone wanting a more adrenaline-driven experience. If you don’t see wildlife during your first trip, you can rebook at a discounted rate—a nice assurance.
Guests appreciate the expert commentary and the speedy, exhilarating ride. The trip’s focus on educational insight makes it both fun and informative.
Bottom line: For adventure lovers who want a quick, energetic wildlife encounter, this tour is hard to beat.
7. From Funchal: Whales and Dolphin Adventure Tour
Rated 4.5/5 with glowing reviews, this 2-hour speedboat trip offers a fast, engaging exploration of Madeira’s waters. It’s perfect for travelers wanting to cover more ground, increasing chances of wildlife sightings, including pilot whales and dolphins.
The tour is led by experienced guides who share fascinating facts. Many guests mention seeing multiple species and appreciating the small group size. The speed of the boat allows for a more dynamic experience, especially if wildlife are playing hard to get.
If you’re a wildlife enthusiast eager to maximize your chances, this tour offers value and excitement.
Bottom line: For a fast-paced, wildlife-rich trip, this adventure is a top contender.
8. Funchal Bay: Dolphin & Whale Watch Luxury Catamaran Cruise
Rated 4.3/5 from nearly 2,000 reviews, this luxury cruise offers a relaxed, upscale experience. Along with spotting whales and dolphins, you’ll enjoy snorkeling at Cabo Girao and panoramic views of Funchal Bay.
Guests often highlight the comfortable vessel and professional crew. The swim stop during summer is a major draw for water lovers. Although some mention the possibility of not seeing wildlife, the overall experience is considered worthwhile for its luxury amenities.
It’s suited for travelers who want a combination of wildlife viewing and comfort without sacrificing style.
Bottom line: If you prefer luxury, scenic beauty, and a relaxed atmosphere, this cruise fits the bill.
9. From Calheta: Madeira Whale and Dolphin Watching Boat Tour
With a 4.9/5 rating, this speedboat tour from Calheta boasts a high success rate for marine mammal sightings. It lasts 2 hours and is ideal for travelers looking for a quick, energetic excursion.
Guests praise friendly guides and the chance to see whales and dolphins up close. The scenic coastline adds to the trip’s appeal. Many reviewers note they saw sperm whales, pilot whales, and dolphins, often in small, manageable groups.
If you want an adventure-packed, wildlife-focused trip in a short time, this tour is a smart pick.
Bottom line: For a high-impact, fast-paced marine adventure, this option is excellent.
10. Funchal: Dolphin and Whale Watching by Luxury Catamaran
Rated 4.4/5 from over 1,400 reviews, this luxury cruise combines comfort, wildlife sightings, and scenic views. It features indoor and outdoor seating and a swim stop in summer at Cabo Girao.
Many reviews mention dolphins, whales, and turtles seen in their natural habitat, with friendly, professional crew sharing insights. The more intimate size of the boat allows for a personalized experience, even if wildlife sightings are not guaranteed.
Best suited for travelers wanting a luxury, relaxed day at sea with wildlife viewing as a bonus.
Bottom line: If comfort and scenic beauty matter most, this cruise offers a refined experience.
11. Magic Dolphin Sea Safaris
This full-star rated (5/5) short trip offers a speedboat experience that’s up to 10 times faster than traditional catamarans. With high-powered engines, the tour dramatically increases your chances of spotting dolphins and whales.
Guests rave about the fast-paced adventure and the possibility of second trips free if no wildlife is seen initially. The fun, energetic atmosphere appeals especially to families and thrill-seekers.
The small group size ensures you’re close to the wildlife, and reviews mention seeing dolphins, pilot whales, sperm whales, and flying fish. It’s perfect if you’re after adventure and high activity.
Bottom line: For speed and excitement plus a high likelihood of sightings, this tour is hard to beat.
12. From Calheta: Whale and Dolphin Watching RIB Boat Tour
Rated 4.9/5, this RIB boat tour prioritizes wildlife encounters with fast, nimble boats. It lasts about 2 hours and offers excellent chances to see whales and dolphins in the wild, with guides eager to share their knowledge.
Guests highlight the intimate experience, with close-up sightings of pilot whales, dolphins, and even sea turtles. The scenic coastline adds to the appeal.
If you’re looking for a more active, hands-on adventure that maximizes your chances of wildlife sightings, this tour fits perfectly.
Bottom line: For speed, agility, and personalized encounters, this RIB experience is a top choice.
13. From Funchal: Madeira Dolphin and Whale Watching Tour
With a 4.3/5 rating, this 3-hour cruise is a dependable option that guarantees wildlife sightings or a second trip free. It departs from Funchal and offers comfortable seating, scenic views, and the chance to swim or snorkel at Cabo Girao.
Reviews mention seeing dolphins, whales, and even a shark, with guides sharing fascinating facts. The guaranteed sighting policy makes it appealing for cautious travelers.
This tour suits those who want a solid, reliable experience with wildlife as the main event.
Bottom line: If peace of mind and a comprehensive tour matter, this is a dependable choice.
14. Whale & Dolphin Watching in Madeira
Rated 5/5, this 2-hour tour offers a personalized and informative wildlife experience. It focuses on spotting multiple species like common, striped, and bottlenose dolphins, as well as sperm whales.
Guests praise the friendly guides and the small group size, which allows for more close encounters. The focus on education and conservation appeals to eco-conscious travelers.
If you want a short, focused wildlife trip with a personal touch, this is ideal.
Bottom line: For personalized attention and a species-rich encounter, this tour shines.
15. Final Wrap-Up and How to Choose
With such a wide array of dolphin and whale watching tours in Madeira, your choice depends on what kind of experience you’re after. Budget travelers may prefer the Funchal: Dolphin and Whale Watching Catamaran Cruise, while eco-minded explorers might lean toward the Responsible Whales and/or Dolphins Watching Tour. For family fun and a touch of luxury, the All Inclusive Whale and Dolphin Watching Luxury Tour offers great value.
Adrenaline junkies should consider the Magic Dolphin Sea Safaris, with its fast, high-speed approach. If you prefer a more intimate, relaxed experience with the possibility of swimming, the Funchal Bay: Dolphin & Whale Watch Luxury Catamaran Cruise is ideal.
Book early, especially in the busy summer months, to ensure availability. Focus on the type of wildlife you want to see, your budget, and how much comfort or adventure you seek. Madeira’s waters are rich with marine life year-round, so no matter which tour you pick, you’re likely to have a memorable experience.
To sum it up, Madeira offers a diverse selection of dolphin watching tours that suit every traveler. Whether you’re after a responsible eco-tour, a luxury cruise, or a high-speed adventure, the island’s waters promise plenty of exciting wildlife encounters. Happy sailing, and don’t forget your camera!