The verdict
Our pick
Madeira Dolphin & Whale Watching: Hybrid-Electric Catamaran★ 4.56 (2,226) · 3h
Best price
Catamaran wildlife tour Funchal: dolphins, whales, turtles★ 4.53 (516) · 3h
Top rated
Private Catamaran Tour Funchal: Open Bar & Snorkeling★ 5.00 (5) · 3h
Funchal Hop-on Hop-off Bus & Whale Watching CatamaranA combined hop-on hop-off bus tour and catamaran whale-watching experience in Funchal that runs for 5 hours across two routes. You board the panoramic bus to explore the Old Town, Pico dos Barcelos Viewpoint and the Lido Promenade, then switch to a catamaran to search for dolphins, whales and turtles along Madeira's coast. The ticket includes a glass of Madeira wine, free entry to Bordal Embroideries Factory with a 10% product discount, and discounts on museums and monuments. Catamaran check-in is 30 minutes before your booked start time.Is it for me?The hop-on hop-off format suits anyone who wants to mix guided stops with time to wander: you stay on the bus for the narrated route, or step off to explore the Old Town, Câmara de Lobos or the Lido Promenade at your own speed, then catch the next bus. The catamaran runs as a separate departure, so you choose whether to add the whale-watching portion or focus on the bus tour alone.
Desertas Islands Catamaran Tour: Monk Seals & SnorkelingA private full-day catamaran charter from Funchal to the Desertas Islands, a protected nature reserve where you sail to uninhabited volcanic islands, swim and snorkel in pristine bays, and spot endangered Mediterranean monk seals and rare seabirds. The boat carries an open bar, snorkeling gear, paddleboards and a freshwater shower; a live guide shares the islands' history and wildlife in English or Portuguese. Eight hours total; moderate fitness needed.Is it for me?Book this private charter if you want the islands to yourself without a shared boat—the crew adjusts the day around what you want to do, and the open bar means you're not paying separately for drinks while you're anchored in the bays. The eight-hour commitment works best if you're comfortable spending most of the day in the water or on deck, and if moderate swimming and paddling fit your fitness level.
Funchal Catamaran Cruises — what to know before booking
This guide compares 5 bookable options for Funchal Catamaran Cruises, with up-to-date prices and real traveler reviews. Prices start at € 35. The average rating is 4.6 out of 5, based on 2,805 traveler reviews.
5 of the 5 options offer free cancellation. The verdict at the top highlights the travelers' favorite, the best price and the top-rated option, updated with live data.
Frequently asked questions
How much does Funchal Catamaran Cruises cost?
Prices start at € 35. There are 5 options to compare, and the final price depends on the date, group size and the option you choose.
Can I book with free cancellation?
Yes: 5 of the 5 options offer free cancellation, so you can book now and confirm your plans later.
Which one is the travelers' favorite?
Madeira Dolphin & Whale Watching: Hybrid-Electric Catamaran is the travelers' favorite, rated 4.6 out of 5 across 2,226 reviews.
