Funchal: Sunset Catamaran Cruise with Dolphin Watching

Funchal evenings on the ocean with dolphins, sunset colors and time to swim

You’ll sail out from Funchal on a catamaran as daylight fades, watching dolphins or maybe whales glide by while you listen to local stories from your guide. There’s time to swim beneath those wild Madeiran sunsets before drifting back toward shore: salt on your skin and colors still stuck in your head.

Step-by-step itinerary

Sunset catamaran cruise and wildlife spotting

• Board catamaran in Funchal
• Sail towards the open ocean
• Observe dolphins, whales, and turtles
• Swim in warm ocean waters
• Enjoy sunset colors over the sea

The experience

“Sometimes the dolphins come close just to show off,” our captain grinned as we stepped barefoot onto the deck in Funchal. I laughed, but honestly? He was right. The first thing I noticed was how the city faded behind us: no high-rises, just that open Atlantic and a few distant islands. The boat had this gentle sway that made me forget about time. There was salt in the air, and someone’s sunscreen mixed with it, oddly comforting.

I kept looking out for dolphins (main keyword: sunset catamaran cruise from Funchal), but at first it was just silence except for the water slapping against the hull. Our guide pointed out some shapes far off, maybe whales? Hard to say, but everyone got quiet for a second, even the kids who’d been running around. When dolphins finally did show up, they darted alongside us like they were late for something. I tried to film it but mostly caught my own feet.

The sun started melting into these wild orange and purple streaks over the water. Someone asked if it was warm enough to swim: next thing I knew, a handful of us were in, laughing at how much colder it felt than we’d expected (I forgot my towel, classic). Floating there with that sky overhead… I still think about that view sometimes when I’m stuck in traffic back home.

What’s included

• Your evening includes a three-hour sunset catamaran cruise from Funchal with live commentary throughout.
• You’ll have opportunities to watch dolphins or whales (sometimes even turtles), plus time to swim if you feel like braving the Atlantic at dusk.
• All you really need is your swimsuit and some curiosity.

Options for this experience

2 options

Sunset cruise with dolphin watchingGuide in English or Portuguese · Available from 1 Jun 2027

Sunset TripGuide in English or Portuguese · 17:00New schedule

You pick the guide language when booking.

You see the exact price of each option when you check availability.See dates & prices

Before you book

Days and timesMonday to SaturdayDeparts at 17:00Last departure this season: 31 Oct

Book up to12h before

AgesAdult (13 and older) · Child (5 to 12 years) · Infant (under 5): free

GroupUp to 180

Live guideEnglish and Portuguese

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated yesterday

Good to know

Easy physical levelStroller friendlyPublic transport nearbyNot for heart conditions

Operated by VMT Madeira Catamaran

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Top questions

What languages is the guide in?

Live guide in English and Portuguese.

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (5 to 12 years); Infant (under 5): free.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

How long is the sunset catamaran cruise from Funchal?

The cruise lasts about 3 hours in total.

Can you see dolphins or whales on this tour?

Yes, there’s a good chance to spot dolphins and sometimes whales during the cruise.

Is swimming allowed during the sunset cruise?

Yes, swimming is possible while anchored at sunset if you want to jump in.

Is pickup included in this tour?

No hotel pickup is mentioned. You board directly in Funchal.

What should I bring for the cruise?

Sunscreen, a windbreaker, towel, and bathing suit are recommended.

Is this sunset cruise suitable for all fitness levels?

Yes, it’s suitable for all physical fitness levels except those with poor cardiovascular health.

Will there be commentary during the tour?

Yes, live commentary is provided by your guide on board.