Madeira: Dolphin & Whale Watching Eco Catamaran Cruise

Summary

Silent seas, wild dolphins and the salty breeze of Madeira’s coast

You’ll set out from Funchal aboard Madeira’s eco-friendly catamaran for a dolphin & whale watching tour guided by locals who know every cove. Feel the quiet as hybrid engines cut out near wildlife, watch dolphins leap alongside you, and drift past cliffs and fishing villages before heading back ashore — probably still grinning.

What’s the experience like?

I forgot my hat in the rush to get down to the marina in Funchal — classic me. The sun was already bright, but there was this salty wind that made everything feel a bit less serious. Our guide, Joana, waved us over with a grin and pointed at the Magic Dolphin Eco catamaran. She said it was the only one on Madeira with hybrid-electric engines, which I didn’t really get until later when we cut the motors and everything just…quieted. You could hear the water slapping against the hull and some kid giggling up on the trampoline nets.

The crew had this way of making everyone feel like they belonged — even my dad, who kept asking if we’d see whales “for sure.” Joana just laughed and explained how spotters on land used binoculars to help find them, but nothing’s guaranteed with wild animals (which honestly made it better). When we did finally spot a pod of dolphins weaving through the blue, I swear time slowed down for a second. There was this faint citrusy smell from someone’s sunscreen mixed with sea air — weirdly perfect. I tried to take a photo but ended up just watching instead.

On our way back along the southern coast, Joana pointed out Cabo Girão — apparently it’s one of the highest sea cliffs anywhere. We passed Camara de Lobos too, all those little fishing boats bobbing around like they were painted there on purpose. Someone asked about Winston Churchill staying at Reid’s Hotel and Joana told a story about him painting here (I’m still not sure if she was joking). The whole dolphin & whale watching tour lasted almost three hours but felt shorter somehow. I keep thinking about that hush when we glided near the animals — you don’t get that everywhere.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Eco-friendly dolphin and whale watching

• Board hybrid-electric catamaran
• Cruise along southern Madeira coast
• Spotters locate dolphins and whales
• Engage silent engines near animals
• Listen to certified guides' commentary
• Sail close to coast on return
• View Cabo Girão sea cliff
• Pass Camara de Lobos fishing village
• See Reid’s Hotel and island views

Top questions

How long is the Madeira dolphin & whale watching tour?

The catamaran cruise lasts between 2.5 to 3 hours.

Is this dolphin & whale watching tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible.

Are drinks or snacks included on board?

No, but there are two bars where you can purchase drinks and snacks.

Where does the tour depart from?

The tour departs from Funchal marina on Madeira Island.

Will we definitely see dolphins or whales?

Sightings are likely but not guaranteed since these are wild animals.

Is hotel pickup included?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; you meet at the marina for departure.

Are guides multilingual?

The tour may be operated by a multilingual guide.

Can infants join this dolphin & whale watching cruise?

Yes, infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller.

What’s included

Your day includes a 2.5 to 3 hour cruise aboard Madeira’s only purpose-built eco-friendly catamaran with hybrid-electric engines, guided commentary from certified local guides, access to two levels for viewing plus trampoline nets at the bow, onboard bars for drinks or snacks, bathrooms available throughout, and wheelchair accessibility for all areas before returning to port in Funchal.