Madeira: Dolphin, Whale & Turtle Watching Sea Safari Tour

Atlantic wildlife adventure from Funchal with marine experts

You’ll head out from Funchal on a small-group sea safari with a marine biologist guide, searching for dolphins, whales, turtles and seabirds with help from expert spotters on land. Feel Atlantic spray as you get close to wildlife (with sightings guaranteed or your next trip is free), then cruise past Madeira’s dramatic coastline before returning, maybe still grinning.

Step-by-step itinerary

Whale and dolphin watching tour

• Spotters locate whales and dolphins
• Depart on Magic Dolphin Sea Safari boat
• Observe multiple marine species
• Enjoy smooth ride with 500 HP engines
• Receive commentary on wildlife and ecosystem
• Return along Funchal Bay coastline
• View Camara do Lobos fishing village from shore
• Learn about Madeira's fauna, flora, and history

The experience

I almost missed the boat, literally. I’d underestimated how quickly the marina fills up in Funchal on a sunny morning, and by the time I found Sea Safari’s dock, my shoes were squeaking on the wet planks. The crew just laughed and waved me aboard anyway. There was this mix of sunscreen and salty air, and everyone seemed half-awake but excited. Our guide, Joana, handed out life jackets and made a joke about “no high heels on deck,” glancing at my sandals (I got the message).

The engines started up, loud but somehow reassuring, and we skimmed out past the harbor walls. Joana pointed out Cabo Girão’s cliffs in the distance while another guide scanned the horizon with binoculars. Suddenly there was a burst of chatter over the radio. Our land spotter had seen something. We sped up (those 500hp engines are no joke), and soon dolphins were everywhere: sleek shapes weaving under our boat, clicking and whistling so close I could hear them over the engine. The water smelled sharp and clean, nothing like back home.

We saw a pod of pilot whales too: one surfaced right next to us, its breath misting in the morning sun. I tried to get a photo but mostly ended up just watching, not wanting to miss it by fiddling with my phone. Joana explained how they track different species around Madeira and why sometimes you see turtles or even rare seabirds if you’re lucky (we spotted one that she called a Cory’s shearwater, I probably mispronounced it). On our way back along Funchal Bay, we hugged the coastline for views of Camara de Lobos: the fishing boats bobbing below looked like tiny toys from where we sat.

I didn’t expect to learn so much about Madeira’s marine life or to feel so small bobbing out there in all that blue space. It’s weird how quickly two hours can pass when you’re half hoping for another dolphin to pop up beside you. I still think about that silent moment when everyone stopped talking just to listen for whale breaths: kind of magic, honestly.

What’s included

Your day includes live commentary from certified local guides, including a marine biologist, plus all local taxes covered in your ticket price. You’ll join a small group (maximum 18 people) departing from Marina Funchal with onboard guidance throughout your search for dolphins, whales and turtles before returning along Madeira’s scenic coast.

Options for this experience

2 options

Sea Safaris for Whale WatchingGuide in English or Portuguese · 10:00 and 14:00

Summer Program: Sea SafarisGuide in English or Portuguese · 10:00, 13:00 and 15:30Anyone who loves wildlife will be thrilled by this activity, which offers close-up views of several different species. Whale and dolphin watching: we take only small groups, and every trip is joined by a marine biologist. Duration: 2 hours. Wildlife speedboat: Sea Safaris uses a boat built specifically for wildlife viewing, and its 500 HP engines get us to the animals more quickly.

You pick the guide language when booking.

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

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDepartures at 10:00, 13:00, 14:00 and 15:30

Book up to1h before

AgesAdult (12 to 80 years) · Child (6 to 11 years) · Under 6: can't be booked

GroupUp to 18

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 today

Good to know

Low physical effortPublic transport nearbyNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problems

Operated by Magic Dolphin

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Top questions

What languages is the tour guided in?

Live guide in English and Portuguese.

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (6 to 11 years). Children under 6 can't be included in the booking.

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 does the dolphin & whale watching tour last?

The tour lasts approximately 2 hours from departure to return at Marina Funchal.

Is wildlife guaranteed on this Madeira sea safari?

Yes, if you don’t see any wildlife on your first trip, you’ll be offered a second trip free of charge.

Are guides included on board during the tour?

Yes, there are two certified guides including a marine biologist providing live commentary throughout.

How many people are allowed per boat trip?

The maximum group size is 18 people per trip for a more personal experience.

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?

No hotel pickup is mentioned. Guests meet at Marina Funchal for departure.

What should I wear or bring for this boat tour?

Avoid high heels. Comfortable footwear is recommended along with sun protection like hats or sunscreen.

Is this activity suitable for pregnant travelers?

No, it is not recommended for pregnant travelers due to safety considerations on board.