Funchal, the capital of Madeira, is a fantastic place for snorkeling thanks to its crystal-clear Atlantic waters, dramatic cliffs, and protected marine areas. Whether you’re a first-timer or an experienced swimmer, Funchal offers options that combine stunning scenery with marine life encounters. Among the options, we particularly like the Snorkelling Trip at Ponta de São Lourenço Protected Area for its accessible boat trips and protected environment, and the Funchal: SUP Rental or Guided tour with snorkeling for its eco-friendly approach and scenic coastline. Each offers a different way to explore Madeira’s underwater world, tailored to various interests and fitness levels.
Quick Overview
This list features three top snorkeling experiences: a guided boat snorkel in a marine reserve, a combined paddleboarding and snorkeling adventure, and a kayak trip with snorkeling. Each provides unique scenery and opportunities for marine wildlife—whether in protected reserves or along the scenic coast. Ready to explore? Let’s dive into the details.
1. Snorkelling Trip at Ponta de São Lourenço Protected Area
This snorkeling adventure takes you to Madeira’s most famous marine reserve, Ponta de São Lourenço. The trip is a boat-based excursion designed for easy access to the best snorkeling spots in the area. It’s particularly well-suited for first-time snorkelers, thanks to a thorough safety briefing and snorkeling advice from an experienced guide. The equipment is included, so you can pack light and focus on enjoying the underwater views.
What makes this trip stand out is its location. The cliffs of Ponta de São Lourenço offer dramatic scenery, and the waters are home to a variety of marine life. Reviews highlight the professionalism of the guides and the stunning views during the boat ride. One visitor remarked, “The team was very fun and accommodating, and we saw lots of beautiful fish.” The main downside is transportation—it’s a bit out of town, so arriving by taxi or car is recommended since public transport can be less convenient.
Bottom Line: If you want a safe, guided snorkeling trip with excellent scenery near Funchal, this is a top choice. It provides good value, especially for beginners wanting to explore a protected marine environment.
2. Funchal: SUP Rental or Guided tour with snorkeling
For a green and active way to enjoy Funchal’s coastline, this stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) and snorkeling tour is a fantastic option. Fully carbon-neutral, it combines exercise with the chance to see Madeira’s clear Atlantic waters. The tour includes a safety briefing at Madeira Divepoint – Dive&Snorkel, then takes you to a small, deserted bay for paddling and snorkeling.
What sets this experience apart is its eco-conscious approach and the small group size, ensuring a more personalized experience. Guests can paddle along the coast, then stop to snorkel in calm, pristine waters. One reviewer called it “brilliant,” appreciating the combination of fun and environmental responsibility. The only downside noted was some outdated snorkeling gear, which some found less comfortable, and a fee of €45 for equipment when some items broke.
Bottom Line: Ideal for active travelers who want to combine exercise with the chance to see marine life, all while supporting sustainable tourism. Best suited for those comfortable on a paddleboard or eager to try something new.
3. Funchal: KAYAK Rental or Guided tour with snorkeling
If you prefer kayaking, this kayak rental or guided tour offers a quiet, eco-friendly way to explore Funchal’s coast. Also carbon-neutral, it’s perfect for those who enjoy paddling and want to access areas less crowded by boats and swimmers. The trip starts at Madeira Divepoint – Dive&Snorkel and includes a safety briefing before heading out on the water.
The kayaking experience is complemented by snorkeling time in calm waters, offering different perspectives of Madeira’s marine scenery. The small group size guarantees personalized attention. Reviews are mixed, with some noting the experience as “fun,” but others mentioning the limited equipment quality and the need for active paddling skills. Price-wise, it’s the most affordable option at $28 per person, making it attractive for budget-conscious travelers.
Bottom Line: Suitable for those who enjoy paddling and want a peaceful, eco-friendly experience. Not ideal for absolute beginners if they are not comfortable with kayaking.
$28 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Snorkeling Adventure
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, fitness level, and what kind of experience you’re after. If safety and ease are your priorities, the guided boat trip (Snorkelling Trip at Ponta de São Lourenço) offers peace of mind and stunning scenery. For eco-conscious adventurers who enjoy physical activity, the SUP tour (Funchal: SUP Rental or Guided tour with snorkeling) provides a combination of paddling and marine exploration. Meanwhile, kayaking (Funchal: KAYAK Rental or Guided tour with snorkeling) is great if you prefer a slower pace and a more intimate feeling of being on the water.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak summer months. Think about your fitness and comfort level with water sports—some tours require more active paddling or balance, while others focus on relaxation and guided exploration.
Final Thoughts
Funchal offers a good variety of snorkeling options, from guided boat trips to eco-friendly paddling adventures. For first-timers, the boat tour at Ponta de São Lourenço is a safe, scenic choice. Active travelers who enjoy paddling and want to incorporate sustainability should consider the SUP or kayak tours. Each provides a different way to see Madeira’s underwater world, and all promise memorable moments in this beautiful Atlantic setting.
No matter which you choose, be sure to book ahead, pack your sense of adventure, and prepare for some of the clearest waters and most interesting marine life around. Whether you’re floating on a board, paddling a kayak, or snorkeling from a boat, Madeira’s coastline won’t disappoint.